Symbolism, Totems, And More In The Realm Of The Octopus, The Spirit Animal

Last Updated on December 26, 2023

Discover the secrets of the octopus as we delve into the depths of symbolism and totemic knowledge. 

These mysterious, intelligent, and adaptable beings occupy a special place in the world of spiritual symbols, representing attributes like adaptability, resourcefulness, and the capacity for change.

We’ll delve deeply into the symbolism of octopuses in this investigation, providing insights that go beyond their alluring appearance. 

We’ll discuss how octopuses can operate as totem animals, including the difficulties they can help you overcome, the behaviors they encourage, and the life-changing solutions they can provide to people who accept them. 

Get ready to explore the mystical world of the octopus and descend into the depths of learning.

What Does an Octopus Imply as a Spirit Animal and What Does It Symbolize?

An octopus’ symbolism and meaning as a spirit and totem animal are deep and intricate. The octopus is frequently linked to deep symbolism across a range of civilizations and belief systems. 

The octopus is a spirit animal that symbolizes adaptability and flexibility, which is similar to how it can survive and move about in the constantly shifting ocean depths. 

Its capacity for shape-shifting and concealment highlights the value of adaptability and inventiveness in our daily lives. 

The octopus also represents intelligence and intuition, encouraging us to rely on our inner guidance when overcoming obstacles in life. 

It a totem animal that inspires us to explore our depths, both literally and figuratively, and emphasizes the need to embrace our secret emotions, creativity, and ability to adapt to diverse circumstances. 

For those who resonate with its energy, its presence acts as a guide, revealing secrets of the subconscious mind and the interconnection of everything in the vast ocean of existence. 

In order to live a joyful and fulfilling existence, the octopus, as a spirit and totem animal, encourages us to explore the depths of our souls, learn to adapt to change, and access our inner wisdom.

The Spirit Animal of the Octopus: Its Adaptability, Intelligence, and Insight

Octopus Spirit Animal Traits

• Intelligent, mysterious, adaptable, and able to blend in
• Strong characteristics of flexibility, with a touch of unpredictability
• Love for nature and the ocean, enjoying walks along the beach

Encouragement For Adaptation

• Encourages adaptation to changing situations
• Symbolizes regeneration and renewal, reflecting the octopus’s ability to escape traps

Guidance In Stagnant Phases

• Provides guidance in phases of feeling stuck or dejected
• Urges seeking strength and guidance for personal growth and development

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The Wisdom of the Depths and Many-Faceted Insights of the Octopus as a Totem Animal

Totem Animal Traits (Octopus)

•  Element:  Water
•  Mineral:  Brass
•  Linked Plant/Tree:  Elder Tree
•  Personality Type:  Hider/Camouflager or Grasper

Individual Characteristics

• True to emotions, often solitary
• Volatile temper when threatened
• Grasps opportunities effectively
• Traits of intelligence, reflection, and manipulative abilities
• Clever, successful in personal and professional life
• Risk of taking on too much
• Negative traits include arrogance, self-assurance
• Demanding and difficult as bosses
• Stinging and sarcastic sense of humor

Power Animal Octopus: Embracing Complexity and Resourcefulness

The octopus has all the necessary qualities of a powerful animal.

If you have the octopus as your power animal, then you are very good at getting yourself out of tough situations, because of your innate intelligence and out-of-the-box thinking. You also know a lot about human nature. 

If you have an octopus as your power animal then it will be with you to power through any kind of situation that demands expression, via your ability for flexibility and adaptability. 

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The Meaning of Octopuses in Native American Symbolism: A Deeper Look

Native American symbolism frequently originates from oral tales that have been passed down through the years to teach important lessons and promote good behavior, especially in young people. 

The Raven and the Octopus is a well-known Native American myth. In this tale, a woman was clamming by the shore at low tide while wearing eight braids, which stood in for the octopus’s tentacles. 

The octopus was pestered by a raven who was pretending to be a man with black hair. 

The octopus disregarded the raven’s persistent attempts to get her attention, and when he drew too near, she caught him in her strands and dragged him under the water. 

Surprisingly, the octopus was able to breathe underwater, which allowed her to survive. 

With the help of the raven’s clever cousin, the crow, the villagers eventually managed to save the bird, and the raven stopped bothering. 

These stories are used in Native American spirituality and culture as entertainment and moral instruction.

Celtic Symbolism of Octopuses: Unraveling the Mysteries of the Deep

The octopus has a key role in Scandinavian and Celtic iconography; in Scandinavian art, it is distinguished from its coiled Greek counterpart by having straight arms. 

Before the Swastika sign was associated with the Nazi party, this distinctive portrayal caused linkages with it in some parts of Europe. 

Originally venerated as a mystical amulet signifying longevity, health, and good fortune, the Swastika’s iconography evolved to include the these creature. 

Together, they developed connections to a variety of substances, including magic, cowries, pterocera shells, and female reproductive organs. 

Along with the Goddess Mother and myths about her giving birth to Fire and Water, these creature also played a significant part in maternal and creation mythology. 

This animal, which is occasionally confused with the spider, represents the Mother in the British Isles and the Republic of Ireland. 

Its varied and deep meaning in these cultural contexts is further shown by the octopus’ ties with the dragon, a popular motif, and even the Celtic God of Nine Rays in Celtic mythology.

Christian Symbolism’s Use of Octopuses: An Odd View of Divine Creation

Fish and sea life symbolism is rampant within Christianity. For example, in much artwork, the fish symbolized Jesus Christ.

Christian Symbolism Of Sea Creatures

• Fish considered sacred, believed to have healing powers
• Octopus, squid, Kraken seen as nautical marvels
• Fishermen viewed them as divine and god-like
• Kraken likened to the cosmic fish in Christian legends
• Octopus in Christian art symbolizes mystery, flexibility, intelligence, fluidity, unpredictability, and adaptability

Octopus In Natural Habitat 

• Lives on the ever-changing ocean floor
• Subject to moon phases, lacks a skeleton
• Ability to move quickly and escape

Christian Interpretation Of The Octopus 

• Represents creativity in Christian spirituality
• Encourages unorthodox approaches to goals

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Understanding Octopus Dreams and Their Symbolic Meaning: Diving into the Deep

When the octopus appears in your dreams, there are a few different meanings or situations that your dreams are trying to communicate to you. 

The Far Eastern Meanings of the Octopus: Knowledge from the Depths                          

• Tako (Octopus) Symbolism
• Takoyaki Festivals
• Folklore and Art

Both octopuses and squids are commonly portrayed in Japanese art, frequently in a funny manner. 

These sea creatures are frequently shown with tangled tentacles and startled expressions. In Japanese cooking, the octopus is used in a variety of dishes, including sushi and takoyaki, a type of octopus ball pancake. 

It is also regarded as a delicacy. Octopus is easily accessible from neighborhood fishmongers in Japan pre-boiled. 

It’s interesting to note that in some parts of Japan, legend depicts these creature as a symbol of amorousness, capable of approaching eight diving maidens. In other stories, it has the capacity to change into people in order to entice women. 

People who have whooping cough may sketch the octopus’s eight legs on paper and tape it to an earthen stove because it is believed in rural Japan that this will help avoid the disease. 

In contrast, the octopus has political connotations in China, where it represents a totalitarian communist regime that stifles opposition and individuality, as Casey demonstrated in a lecture he gave in 1952. 

Additionally, the octopus has historical connections to the Swastika, a Sanskrit sign for prosperity before it was associated with the Nazi party. 

Even the Kuna people of Panama thought that the Swastika symbolized the octopus that created the world.

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Meaning of an Octopus Tattoo: Understanding Complexity and Symbolic Importance

Octopus Tattoos

• Symbolize power, strength, intelligence, manifestation of desires, and flexibility
• Women may get them to depict strength after experiencing abuse or childhood bullying, symbolizing survival and resilience
• Popular among sailors to honor the sea
• Squids are common maritime tattoos for sailors and submariners

Personality Symbolism

• Octopus tattoos are often associated with a ‘grasper’ personality type
• Indicates someone vigilant for opportunities and quick to seize them to achieve goals

Choosing An Octopus Tattoo

• Design and setting can alter the tattoo’s meaning
• Analyze options before finalizing the design

Spiritual Significance

• Octopus entering life signals new opportunities
• Encourages exploration of creative and intuitive self
• Eight legs symbolize infinity, representing lessons learned from the wheel of life
• Challenges to confront true emotions pushed down in spirituality

Octopuses’ Spiritual Meaning: Embracing Complexity and Adaptability

On a general spiritual level, the water element highly influenced and tied the symbolism of an octopus.

Hence, it often links to cleaning insight and movement. Lightworkers sometimes consider Octopus medicine as linked with sacred femininity. 

Embracing Change and Resourcefulness: The Octopus in Astrology and the Zodiac Signs

In the zodiac calendar, these creature links to the Zodiacal sign of Cancer, which corresponds to both the summer solstice and depths of water. 

African Myth and Symbolic Meanings: Stories of Cultural Significance and Wise Advice

African Art Symbolism

• Snail and octopus shapes in African art convey a sense of slow movement, persistence, and determination
• Similarities with the symbol for the sun, featuring a circular face and three arms/legs in three directions

Symbol On Objects

• Used as a symbol on objects like Egyptian scarabs and a Thracian statuette of a nude Goddess
• Indicates African culture’s use of it as a life symbol

Neolithic Period

• In the Neolithic period in Africa, crud idol objects represented forms derived from octopuses

Symbol Of The Ocean

• Possibly used as a conventional symbol of the ocean and the watery fertilizing principle

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Octopus Symbolic Meaning

The octopus is spiritually important to many cultures. Here’s a quick summary of some meaning of the octopus in symbolism and spirituality: 

Mythological and Folkloric Octopus Symbolism: Tales of Mystery and Multiple Interpretations

Greek Mythology: In ancient Greece, the octopus was associated with the sea god Poseidon. It was considered a sacred animal, and its presence was believed to be a sign of protection for sailors and fishermen.

Polynesian Mythology: In Polynesian cultures, the octopus is often seen as a symbol of intelligence and adaptability. It is featured in creation myths and stories, representing the ability to navigate life’s challenges with creativity.

Native American Folklore: The octopus is seen as a sign of transformation and change by several Native American cultures. Its capacity to alter its color and shape while submerged is seen to be a representation of nature’s transforming power.

The Complex World of Octopus Symbolism in Literature and Art

Literature: The octopus has been featured in literature as a symbol of mystery and complexity. It can represent the hidden depths of characters or the intricacies of a storyline.

Art: Diverse artistic mediums have portrayed octopuses, highlighting their distinct appearance and meaning. The octopus is frequently used by artists to communicate ideas about adaptability and the ocean’s mysteries.

Octopus Symbolism in Japan: Cultural Significance and Symbolic Interpretations

Tako (Octopus) Symbolism: Octopus, or “tako,” is a symbol of both culture and cuisine in Japan. It is a widely used ingredient in Japanese food, particularly in dishes like sushi and takoyaki (octopus balls). The octopus represents a bounty of seafood and is linked to delicious foods.

Takoyaki Festivals: Japan hosts Takoyaki festivals, where people come together to enjoy this delicious dish. These festivals celebrate the joy of food and community.

Folklore And Art: The octopus has also appeared in Japanese folklore and art. It can symbolize adaptability and flexibility, qualities that are highly regarded in Japanese culture.

The Feng Shui Octopus: Embracing Flexibility and Adaptability

Positive Energy: Octopus imagery is not as prevalent in Feng Shui as some other animal emblems. Thoughtful interpretations can be made of the octopus’s symbolism of adaptability and resourcefulness. It might stand for the capacity to handle the difficulties of life with ease.

Water Element: Because of their affinity for the sea, octopuses correspond to the water element in Feng Shui. Water is a symbol for the movement of energy and feelings. The presence of octopus’ images near water features or in aquatic-themed design might improve a room’s good energy flow.

Creativity And Intelligence: The intellect of the octopus can represent mental flexibility and inventive problem-solving in Feng Shui. It may be advantageous to hang these creature posters in regions or workplaces where creative thinking is promoted.

What Does Seeing an Octopus Mean? – Deciphering the Mysterious Message?

Adaptability: An octopus may represent the necessity to change and be adaptable in your current circumstance. You might need to handle changes with elegance and adaptation, much like the octopus does to its environment.

Intelligence: Octopuses are known for their high intelligence. Seeing one may be a reminder to use your intellect and problem-solving abilities to overcome challenges or make wise decisions.

Mystery And Complexity: The octopus’ cryptic appearance and behavior might stand in for the complexities of your current circumstances as well as the secrets of existence. It motivates you to delve deeper into your experiences.

Creativity: The octopus’s ability to change colour and shape is a form of creative expression. Seeing an octopus may inspire you to tap into your creativity and find unique solutions to problems.

A Closer Look at the Different Octopus Symbolism Dimensions

Adaptability And Flexibility: Octopuses are often associated with adaptability and flexibility due to their ability to change their appearance and behaviour to suit their surroundings.

Intelligence: Octopuses symbolize intelligence and problem-solving skills, as they are among the most intelligent marine creatures.

Mystery And Elusiveness: The octopus’s elusive nature and ability to disappear into its surroundings can symbolize hidden aspects or the unknown in life.

Wisdom from the Depths: Octopus Sayings

“Ink it in.” This saying plays on the octopus’s ability to release ink as a defence mechanism. It can be used to encourage decisiveness or commitment.

“All arms and legs.” This phrase, although not directly related to octopuses, can be used to describe someone busy or actively involved in many tasks, similar to how octopuses use their multiple arms for various activities.

Octopus Gods and Goddesses

Akkorokamui (Ainu Mythology): The gigantic red octopus-like creature known as Akkorokamui, which appears in Ainu mythology, is a native of Japan’s Ainu people. It is renowned for being evasive and for having the capacity to alter its size.

There are various potential reasons for seeing a dead octopus, including

Endings And Beginnings: Just as the octopus symbolizes adaptability and change, seeing a dead octopus can signify the end of one phase in your life and the beginning of another.

Loss Of Creativity: It could indicate a loss of creativity or a need to rekindle your creative spirit. The octopus’s creative abilities may serve as a reminder to nurture your creative talents.

Acceptance Of Change: It might stand for accepting change or serving as a reminder that change is a necessary element of life. The octopus represents flexibility and change even in death.

Octopus Facts & Trivia

Adaptability And Flexibility

The amazing capacity of octopuses to adjust to many conditions and surroundings is celebrated. Their symbolism now emphasizes the value of adaptability and versatility in the face of life’s obstacles because of their capacity for adaptation.

Intelligence And Problem-Solving

One of the most intelligent marine species is the octopus. Their symbology frequently highlights the importance of intelligence and creativity in managing life’s challenges, and they have sophisticated problem-solving skills.

Mysteries Of The Unknown

Due to their elusive behaviour and enigmatic appearance, octopuses are linked to the mysteries of the unknown. They encourage individuals to explore the deeper layers of their experiences and seek hidden truths.

Creativity And Transformation

The octopus’s ability to change colour and shape is seen as a form of creative expression. It symbolizes the transformative power of nature and inspires people to tap into their creative potential.

Symbol Of Femininity

In many cultures, the octopus is associated with the feminine aspects of creation and fertility. It has been linked to goddesses and maternal figures, highlighting its role in nurturing and bringing forth life.

Organizations Dedicated to the Preservation of These Oceanic Wonders: The Guardians of Octopuses

• The Octopus Foundation: The Octopus Foundation is committed to studying and preserving populations around the world. They conduct research, raise awareness, and collaborate with local communities to protect these intelligent creatures.
• Marine Conservation Institute: This organization is dedicated to protecting ocean ecosystems, including the habitats where octopuses reside. They work to establish marine protected areas and advocate for sustainable fishing practices to safeguard marine life.
• The Marine Stewardship Council (MSC): MSC is a global nonprofit organization that certifies sustainable seafood products. Their certification program helps ensure that octopus and other seafood are sourced and harvested responsibly.
• Oceana: Oceana is focused on ocean conservation and works to protect marine life, including octopus species. They engage in policy advocacy and scientific research to combat overfishing and habitat destruction.
• Project AWARE: While primarily focused on shark and ray conservation, Project AWARE also advocates for the protection of other marine species, including octopuses. They promote responsible diving practices and marine conservation efforts.

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Utilizing Octopus Symbolism to Improve Your Everyday Life

Adaptability And Flexibility

Accept change and flexibility in all facets of life. Learn to adapt to many circumstances and places with ease, just like the octopus. When faced with difficulties, this can lessen stress and boost resilience.

Intelligence And Problem-Solving

Harness your intelligence and creative problem-solving abilities to navigate life’s complexities. Approach issues with curiosity and the determination to find innovative solutions.

Resourcefulness

Maximize the resources available to you. Just as octopuses use their tentacles and clever strategies to catch prey, explore ways to make the most of your resources and overcome obstacles.

Exploring Hidden Truths

Discover secret facts about yourself and your environment by delving deeper into your mind like the octopus, a symbol for the mysteries of the unknown. Personal development can result from introspection and self-reflection.

Authenticity

Avoid concealing your true self or emotions, as the octopus sometimes hides in plain sight. Strive to be authentic and transparent in your interactions, fostering more genuine relationships.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the spiritual significance of octopuses?

The qualities of adaptability, intelligence, and mystery are frequently linked to octopuses. Although their spiritual connotation might vary, they are generally regarded as representations of metamorphosis and change.

What does it mean when you dream about an octopus?

Different meanings can be derived from having an octopus-related dream. It might stand for flexibility, difficult circumstances, or the necessity to face obstacles and buried feelings in your life.

Are there different types of octopus symbolism in different cultures?

Yes, different civilizations use octopus symbols differently. They signify secret depths and the unknown in some, while intelligence and adaptability are represented by them in others.

Can octopuses symbolize creativity?

Yes, because they can change color and shape, octopuses are frequently thought to be creative. They may stand for adaptability and inventive problem-solving.

Are there any negative interpretations of octopus symbolism?

Although octopuses are typically seen positively, its symbolism can also be linked to intricacy, elusiveness, and the unknown, which can be problematic in some situations.

How can I incorporate octopus symbolism into my daily life or spiritual practice?

You can use octopus symbolism by considering their virtues, utilizing octopus-themed art or products, or using them as a metaphor for life’s transitions and difficulties.

Are there any famous sayings or proverbs related to octopuses?

Octopus sayings or proverbs may exist in many cultures, reflecting the animal’s symbolism of adaptability and intellect, but not being as prevalent as that of some other creatures.

Are there any specific deities or mythological figures associated with octopuses?

The symbolism and significance of octopuses in various belief systems may be highlighted in some cultures by the association of mythological creatures or deities with them.

What is the significance of seeing a dead octopus?

A dead octopus may represent ends, new beginnings, or accepting change. The interpretation may vary depending on the situation and one’s own beliefs.

How can octopus symbolism be applied in environmental or conservation efforts?

The symbolism of the octopus can be utilized to emphasize the value of adaptation and intellect in dealing with environmental problems as well as the necessity of conservation efforts to safeguard marine life in general, including octopuses.

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Aleem Ahmed

Aleem holds an MS in Zoology/Animal Biology and a BS in Biology/Biological Sciences. He is an experienced biology lecturer and researcher, deeply involved in groundbreaking research on herbal product use in laboratory models. He focuses on oxidative stress, inflammation, hematotoxicity, and cardiovascular disease.
He has a track record of research and thesis writing and previously moderated courses on Coursera. His broad knowledge spans biology, zoology, immunology, hematology, physiology, ecology, molecular biology, and biochemistry. Aleem's expertise, research dedication, and effective communication make him an invaluable resource for those seeking knowledge and support in biology.

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