Twinn Swan

In popular renderings and depictions, Ma Lakshmi is almost always depicted flanked with two elephants. Another one of Ma Lakshmi’s vahanas is the owl. Sometime back, I went all over Singapore’s Little India looking for an icon of Ma Lakshmi with an owl, but I could not find one. I believe part of the reason has to do with superstition. Some people see owls as an omen of darkness and of impending doom.

In other cultures, however, the owl is a symbol of learning and of wisdom. As wise as an owl, as wise as King Solomon… In literature, in learning and in study, we usually depict owls with a book, a graduation hat, glasses and so on. The owl metaphor can also be used to describe someone who is learned and full of wisdom. Many look to–and even look up to–those with wisdom in order to make the right life decisions.

The fact that we cannot universally agree on one meaning is not necessarily a bad thing. It usually means that there is room for difference, but also room for discord. We do not have to agree to disagree in order to acknowledge that we are all different.

The owl is a complex and mysterious creature. It is largely a solitary bird, until it has a family of its own. The owl is extremely protective and can reveal tremendous courage when it needs to protect one of its very own. While owls generally keep to themselves, they will go to great lengths to protect their nests and their offspring. They can even attack when they feel threatened. The owl reminds us to protect those relationships that we value.

The owl has exceptional flying skills and an excellent memory. They can fly silently with very little turbulence. Owls create a mental map of its territory due to its ability to locate sound. The owl encourages us to go after what we want quietly. We do not always have to make a grand entrance. The right people will notice us and gravitate towards us. If you have been trying to get attention and have not been able to, owl can inspire you to move with wisdom.

The owl knows how to listen for the truth. It does not allow itself to be deceived. What have you been struggling with after the sun has set? Are you superstitious? If you are struggling with fear of the unknown, try a more logical approach. The concept that the owl is a bringer of misfortune or a bad omen is but a superstition based on ignorance. Limiting beliefs must be questioned with the razor sharp precision of logic.

In some cultures, the owl is linked to witchcraft and dark powers. As a creature associated with the night, it is more likely to be heard than seen. While we may hear the owl’s call, it is not a bird that makes a single sound when it kills. It is a silent killer. Owls consume their whole prey–bones, fur and well, everything. What cannot be digested is coughed up and released. They generally feast on rodents and rabbits.

The owl is ready to overcome whatever challenges it faces so that it can occupy its rightful place and position in the community. The owl knows what is important and what to reject. The owl is one that can reveal the deepest and darkest truths. You can always count of them to provide you with unique insights.