Hummingbird symbolism is an important aspect of the relationship between spirituality and the animal kingdom. Not only are hummingbirds some of the only birds that can fly backward while doing their job to pollinate plants, but they are also known for their speed, unique beauty, and wit.
Seeing a hummingbird can have an important meaning in your life and can help you through parts of your life where you may be struggling to decide between two paths.
What is a Hummingbird?
Hummingbirds are the world’s smallest birds. In fact, some species of hummingbirds are so small that they look more like large bugs. They come in many different colors and have a long beak that is used to drink nectar from flowers.
These birds can also fly very fast, thanks to their wings which beat faster than any other bird species. There are currently 300 known species of hummingbirds.
What Does a Hummingbird Symbolize?
- Power enclosed in a small package.
- Self-care and rest.
- Seeing a hummingbird may be a reminder to evaluate your inner strength.
- A hummingbird can be a symbol of resilience and joy.
- Hummingbirds are known to be playful and creative.
- Lightness, unbounded energy
Hummingbird Totem Animal
The hummingbird is only considered your animal totem when you share almost all the qualities listed above with the hummingbird within your soul. A totem animal is an animal that you find a kindred spirit with that you allow your spirit to be guided.
So, when a hummingbird is your totem animal, it means your soul is ripe with hidden power. In fact, you are a strong, individualistic person who enjoys life to the fullest.
Additionally, you are likely great at adapting to new surroundings and are joyful in your everyday life. In many Native American tribes, those with the hummingbird totem animal are healers and may carry messages from the gods.
Hummingbird Spirit Animal
When the hummingbird is your spirit animal, it will appear to you when your soul needs guidance. Similar to an animal totem, when you have a spirit animal, this is an animal you see frequently which may appear to you at times when you ask for guidance in your life.
Unlike the animal totem, a hummingbird can still be your spirit animal even if you only share a few qualities with the bird.
Pros of a Hummingbird Spirit Animal
- Joyful
- Adventurous
- Resilient
- Strong
- Feisty
- Graceful
- Creative
- Positive
Cons of a Hummingbird Spirit Animal
- Hyperactive
- Flighty
- Undisciplined
- Never satisfied
- Distracted
- Always going from task to task
- Difficulty focusing
Hummingbird Symbolism and Death
Hummingbird symbolism relates to death when finding a dead hummingbird. It can be a sad and harrowing experience. However, there is great meaning in the symbolism of this bird’s death.
A dead hummingbird is sent to you as a message from the spirit world. In fact, it is a message that it is time to renew and transform your life. It may also be a reminder to celebrate your freedom and to search for inner peace in a way you haven’t considered previously.
What Does a Hummingbird Symbolize in the Bible?
In the Bible, the hummingbird is a symbol of eternity because of the unique pattern of flapping its wings. Hummingbirds are flapping their wings in a figure-eight shape constantly to keep them afloat, which is why they are thought to represent infinity and continuity.
Hummingbirds are also seen as a sign of faith and hope in the bible, reminding the viewer to stay in the present and not to worry about what is to come or what has already passed.
What Does Seeing a Hummingbird in Your Dreams Mean?
Seeing a hummingbird in your dreams means the appearance is to remind you of one of your shared attributes and to guide you through a difficult decision.
So, for those familiar with hummingbirds, they typically appear in your dream to let you know that the next time you find yourself at a crossroads, ask yourself how a hummingbird would handle the situation, and this is likely your solution.
But interpreting dreams is tricky, and before you dive into your dream about a hummingbird, take a moment to decide what attributes you share with a hummingbird. If you don’t share a lot of characteristics with a hummingbird, it may have appeared in your dream to let you know that you need to learn about them and their way of life.
Seeing a hummingbird in your dreams can also mean that the universe is aware of the new ideas you have been thinking up and that it is time to test them out.
How to Interpret a Hummingbird Encounter
When you encounter a hummingbird, take a moment, and observe what it is doing. If you are able to do so, it is recommended to meditate directly after observing the hummingbird.
During your meditation, review the actions of the hummingbird and how they may impact your own life. If you can’t find a connection, then it may be that the hummingbird appeared to let you know that you need to undergo a transformation to understand life better.
A hummingbird encounter, especially when it flies ahead of or next to you, is almost always considered a positive encounter, usually a symbol that you will be blessed in the future or that good luck is coming your way.
Still feel confused about your hummingbird encounter? Studying the hummingbird may give you the answers you are looking for.
7 Hummingbird Symbolism and Spiritual Meanings
1. Native American Hummingbird Meaning
In Native American lore, the hummingbird was often sent to hunters and warriors to remind them of their innate strength. Sometimes, they were sent as a healer or as comfort to a warrior who was wounded.
2. Celtic Mythology
In Celtic cultures, the hummingbird was seen as a messenger often sent between the gods and the mortals. Many believed that these small birds carried holy prophecies from the heavens to those below.
3. Asian Cultures
The hummingbird was a symbol of happiness and wealth in Asian cultures. So, encountering a hummingbird was considered a good omen, thought to bring you good fortunes in the year to come. The hummingbird is depicted as positive chi in the feng shui world.
4. European Traditions
Much of European traditions come from Christianity, and they tend to symbolize the hummingbird the same way as the Bible does. Hummingbird symbolism is seen as a sign of pending death but also a reminder that death isn’t the end and is instead the beginning of eternity.
It is also a reminder of those who have died and is thought to be a message from Heaven that your loved one is safe and happy in the arms of God.
5. Mexico/Aztec Culture
In ancient Aztec culture, the hummingbird was a specific god by the name Huitzilopochtli, and he governed the sun and war. Spotting a hummingbird would indicate that a dying warrior was about to be reborn.
6. Hinduism
In Hinduism, a hummingbird is sent as a sign of happiness and a reminder to stay hopeful. Many also believe seeing a hummingbird means springtime is just around the corner.
7. Buddhism
In the Buddhist religion, spotting a hummingbird is a sign that you need to be content with what you have and let go of your want for more. It also reminds the viewer to look inside for happiness rather than basing happiness on external factors.