Animal Symbolism pt II - Familiars
The definition of Familiar is as follows:
Noun
- A demon supposedly attending and obeying a witch, often said to assume the form of an animal.
- A close friend or associate.
Since the medieval and early modern periods of European folklore, Familiars (Familiar Spirits) have been believed to be supernatural beings that assist witches, cunning and other magical folks in magical practices. Records from the time dictate that Familiars have many forms, the most common being that of an animal, but can also present as a human or humanoid figure. Unlike ghosts, Familiars are 3 dimensional and clearly defined as opposed to being smokey and not fully defined. When in the service of witches, Familiars were seen as malevolent, often being categorised as demons but when in the service of cunning folk, they were seen as benevolent, described as and thought of as fairies (although there is some ambiguity surrounding this). It was thought that the purpose of the Familiar was to provide protection to a witch and serve them until they came into their full power potential. Nowadays, some magical practitioners, including those who follow the Wiccan paths, still use the concept of Familiars due to the terms longstanding connotations with older magicks, using pets, wildlife and metaphysical beings to act as magical aids.
The most popular form for a Familiar to take is that of a cat, specifically a black cat. Cats have long been associated with witches and witchcraft and owning one during the witch trials (separate post on this horrendous period in history at a later date) was an almost guaranteed accusation. Ferrets were common as well with rats and mice being frequently chosen as well. But a Familiar could choose any animal it wished, from the aforementioned to dogs to flies. It's name however, was either given to the witch by the Familiar or the witch would give a name until one was agreed apon. Such names ranged from Pyewacket and Grizzel Greedigut to more simple ones like John and Nan according to records. Once a Familiar had chosen it's witch and been named it would remain with the witch until they came into their power or until it deemed necessary. This period of time could be anywhere from a few weeks to several years as long as the Familiar was treated right. A Familiar must be rewarded for their companionship either with food and water, a place to live or any offering it deems worthy.
Signs you have found a Familiar
The following applys to all possible forms of a Familiar:
- If you have an animal that's drawn to magic
- You where chosen by said animal
- The animal in question is often by your side when you practice
- If the animal is a stray/wild and comes to you often
- When asked if they are your Familiar, they respond in a unique way
What the different Familiars mean
Each animal has their own specific meaning, let's see what your Familiar means:
- Horse - Courage, freedom
- Toad - Rebirth, resurrection
- Rabbit - Abundance, prosperity
- Dog - Loyalty, vigilance
- Cat - Mystery, protection
- Ferret - Playfulness, caution
- Birds - Blue Jay - High energy, communication
- Cardinal - Passion, past loved ones
- Crow - Intelligence, transformation
- Duck - Friendship, good fortune
- Dove - Harmony, peace
- Eagle - Leadership, freedom
- Hawk - Courage, awareness
- Hummingbird - Creativity, beauty
- Magpie - Duality, illusion
- Owl - Wisdom, observation
- Raven - Magic, knowledge
- Robin - Luck, prosperity
- Sparrow - Love, productivity
- Stork - New life, wisdom
- Swan - Creativity, loyalty
- Vulture - Renewal, patience
- Woodpecker - Determination, progress
- Mice/Rats - Persistence, cunning
Not all pets are Familiars. If they don't respond when asked or show no interest in the craft, then they are just a cute companion who enjoys your company. It is possible for a pet to choose you and not be a magical companion.
If you can't have a Familiar live with you due to allergies or rent agreements, you can enchant an object, go for walks and see which animals are drawn to you or do visualisation.
If I've forgotten anything or any information is incorrect, please leave a comment!!
Keep your eye out for part 3 of our Animal Symbolism series!!
Blessings,
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👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻
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