LION

[Myriel RAouine]

Creature of the Sun Lord, beloved of the Lady,
Reveal to me the ancient methods of magic.
Walk beside me as I grow in strength and courage.
Show me when to keep ties strong
and when to break them.
Help me to understand the times for work
and the times for rest.
Mighty lion, lend me your energies.

Feminine Power
The Lion is the symbol of the sun and of gold.  
Medieval alchemists associated Lion with sulfur.
A Lion totem presents a lesson in dealing with groups and your role within those groups.
It is a totem for avoiding confrontations and for stealth.
Take the easy way to meet your goals; do not confront them head on.
A Lion totem tells you to trust your feminine energies –
creativity, intuition and imagination.
But don’t be afraid to roar if threatened.

The symbolic meaning of lions, as one might imagine, primarily deals with strength. 

The fact that it is a nocturnal creature means that the lion is a symbol of authority and command over subconscious thought (as night is an ancient symbol of the subconscious - or dream states).

It's interesting that the lion is considered by many ancient cultures to be a solar animal symbol, however it is primarily a nocturnal creature, conducting its hunting activity mostly at night. Further, the lioness is considered a lunar animal.

This serves as a symbolic message of balance and sound judgment. In that the lion shares the world of both night and day, the lion bears a message of prudence to us. In other words, the lion asks us to not overdo in certain areas of our lives. Rather, keep an even mind and an overall balance in our life activities.

Other than a symbol for strength, other symbolic attributes of the lion include...

Wisdom
Power
Royalty
Dignity
Courage
Justice
Ferocity
Dominion
Authority

In Egypt, the lion represented the ferocious heat of the sun and was seen in the likeness of Sekhmet who is the Egyptian goddess known as the Eye of Ra. She is the power that protects the good and annihilates the wicked.

In ancient Greece, lions were identified with Dionysus, Phoebus, Cybele, and Artemis because myth indicates lions drew the chariots for these gods and goddesses. Here, the symbolic meaning of lions revolved around protections and they were viewed as guardians of the dead as well as guardians of palaces, doorways, shrines and thrones. They were also ultimate protectors of hearth and home.

In Hinduism, the lion is an avatar (embodiment or personification) of Vishnu.

In Buddhism the Buddha sits upon the lion as a throne of consistency, strength and wisdom.

In alchemy, the symbolic meaning of lions is associated with the highly idealistic and prized attributes of gold.
Lion Symbolism in Heraldry


The symbolic meaning of lions in England is shown in heraldic art where it is a common emblem of English sovereigns because of these lion-like traits:

Honor
Courage
Royalty
Strength
Leadership



Lion Meanings in Astrology


As a zodiac symbol - those with the sign of Leo likely possess some lion's personality traits such as:
Fiery
Loyalty
Passionate
Intuition
Generosity
Territorial
Controlling
Self-confidence


Those born under the sun sign Leo are fiercely independent, confident and in control.

They are creative and influential forces and have the internal power to make positive (or negative) changes in their lives and the lives of others around them.

They are very loyal people, and will defend friend and family honor to the death. My friend Goran Jonsson has perfectly captured the strength and ferocity the Leo represents in his zodiac pendant shown left.

Lions as dream symbols indicate we may feel as though we are being preyed upon, or we are in a position to defend ourselves. Dreaming of lions may also be a sign of our need to get in touch with our emotions, and tame them if necessary.

In esoteric studies, the lion makes its appearance in the Tarot where it is illustrated in the Strength card of the Major Arcana.

When we observe the lion in nature, we detect an easy strength and a natural dignity. The lion is born powerful, and power comes naturally to it. There is no false bravado as the lion has no need of it.

When the lion comes to us it is a sign for us to step into our natural birthright of power. Each of us is born powerful and divine. The lion reminds us of this.
Symbolic Messages the Lion Offers Us
Have courage, have faith


Stand tall, remember your birthright of power


Hold your head high - even in times of conflict - conduct yourself with dignity


It may be time to defend something that is dear to your heart - defend it fiercely if you must


Perhaps it's time to show your authority (not in a dominating way) but lead others with a loving heart


As with all signs and symbols, the symbolic meaning of lions should be special and personal to each of you. This only provides you with a brief summary of the various symbolic meanings available. Ultimately it is you who determines your own unique and symbolic relationship with the lion.

Special thanks to David J. Crotty for the use of his lion picture (center image).

THANKS to SOURCE:

http://www.whats-your-sign.com/symbolic-meaning-of-lions.html

If Lion has come roaring into your life;

He is bringing a message of prudence to us. In other words, the Lion asks us to not overdo in certain areas of our lives. Rather, keep an even mind and an overall balance in our life activities. The Lion is the ultimate protector of hearth and home. Listen to the actions of Lion for he will show you if it is time to relax and de-stress your mind, body and spirit. He is also about timing or your personal power. Perhaps it’s time to increase your community responsibilities and organize cooperation among your peers. He also aids you in recognizing and understanding your own noble and regal attitudes.
If Lion is your Animal Totem;

You are fiercely independent, confident and in control which is balanced by a quiet demeanor. You are also a creative and influential force and have the internal power to make positive (or negative) changes in your life and the lives of others around them. Most Lion Totem people are very loyal, and will defend friend and family honor to the death.
If Lion has come into your Dreams;

You will overcome some of your emotional difficulties.It is also telling you that you are more powerful than you think and that you have a lot of influence over others. It could also mean that you need to exercise some restraint in your own personal and social life. Alternatively, a lion represents your need for control over others. You have to be in charge.

To see a lioness in your dream represents your maternal instincts. You will go to great lengths to protect your interests. Alternatively, a lioness symbolizes hope, victory, tenacity and stamina.

To dream that you are attacked by a lion suggests that a force may be driving you to self-destruction. You need to overcome these challenges and obstacles.

To see a black lion in your dream represents a negative force. You or someone else is using their position of power to do harm.

To see a white lion in your dream highlights your majestic power. A white lion may also indicate sudden awareness of the power you hold.

THANKS to SOURCE:

http://spirit-animals.com/lion/

The lion as a totem carries a group or family energy. They roam the countryside within a pride. Community is very important to them. If lion is your totem then you will have a strong sense of community or a desire to belong to a group.

The lion is known for its magnificent mane and ferocious roar. The roar is a predatory warning. The lion does not wish to fight, but will take a stand to protect the lionesses and cubs in his pride. The lioness' role is hunter and caregiver for the cubs. The young cubs are allowed to play and enjoy life.

When lion totem appears, notice if it is a lion, lioness, or cub. If it is the male then you may need to make sure you are protecting the members of your family. This doesn't mean that you must fight, but to stand up and be seen as strong and willing to fight for them if needed. If it is the lioness, then you may need to review your role as provider and caregiver. Are your children getting their nurturing needs met? If it is the cub that appears, ask yourself if you are allowing enough play into your life?

THANKS to SOURCE:

http://healing.about.com/od/animaltotems/ig/Animal-Totems-Photo-Gal...

General

The most distinguishing characteristic of the Lion is twofold in expression., and is differentiated by being distinguished between the genders in the natural world. First is the image of the male Lion, the epitome of strength, vitality, and presence that is evident in his long, muscular frame and the thick mane of fur that surrounds his head and chest. He is master of his domain, and the King of Beasts, renowned for his courage and strength.

In the female lioness, we see the second distinctive characteristic of this Creature Being. We witness the females of a Lion Pride all working in perfect cooperation with one another for tasks ranging from caring for their young, to taking down prey. While the male Lion is the iconic image of Protection, Strength, and Vitality, the female Lioness is the epitome of Cooperation and Feminine Power.

Those who have Lion journeying beside them as a primary Animal Totem, will likewise be imbued with a sense of courage and strength that is completely natural and unassuming. Equally, these fierce defenders of the underdogs in life, are also capable of great gentleness and possess a strong nurturing instinct which is one of the aspects of the Feminine Power principle.

This is the individual that will immediately capture the attention of a room full of people when walking into a party or gathering. there is a special aura of dignity about them, a charismatic appeal that is hard to miss.
Childhood

The young Lion cub will be one that stands out from the crowd right from the beginning. This is the child that immediately captures the notice and attention of others, and it is a tendency that will carry on throughout their life.

Parents of the young Lion will need to be aware of the effect their child has on others. If left unchecked, such adoration and attention can lead the young one to assume that special treatment is "owed" to them, thus fostering an arrogant or conceited manner. This can be avoided by imbuing the youngster with a healthy self-esteem whilst simultaneously giving them chores and tasks to do, and having open and frank discussions with them about any behaviors or tendencies that exhibit a sense of entitlement.

Yet when well developed and guided by parents and adults who play prominent roles in the young cub's life, these are amazingly generous and warm children who will often go out of their way to befriend the friendless.

Being highly creative by nature, any natural tendencies or desires toward creative expression should be supported and encouraged. Many individuals in the arts and entertainment industry, as well as leaders of movements and activists have begun life as a young Lion cub.
Spirituality

The Lion has been associated with differing forms of religion from the earliest of times and ranging from Ancient Egypt to modern day Christianity. As such, the one beside whom this magnificent feline walks will have a deep inner spirituality, even when not formally tied to a traditional religion.

This Animal Totem is often seen beside those who will defend their faith with stalwart defiance, and frequently against popular opinion. These are the defenders of the right to believe as an individual, and to have a personal connection with the Divine.
Socialization

When Animal Spirit Guide Lion journeys beside a human counterpart, they will bring with them the Medicine of Dignity and Feminine Power. Even when expressed through the male gender, the principle of Feminine Power is expressed in close relationships as the desire to nurture their friends, loved ones, and mate.

These are the friends that can be counted on to bravely step forward in another's defense, or rise to the occasion when a genuine act of chivalry is needed the most. And as a romantic partner, few can match the charisma and magnetic appeal of these vibrant souls.

If you have found yourself journeying beside one with Lion as a primary Animal Totem, you can count yourself fortunate indeed. They will shower you with affection, stalwartly protect you, and warm you with their presence. Yet if you are overly meek, or overly aggressive, you will quickly lose their interest. While they enjoy a challenge, and may be secretly amused at anyone courageous enough to stand up to their impressive presence, they also don't like to feel "bossed" or taken for granted.
Shadow Side

For the Lion individual operating from the reverse of the intended, upright Medicine of this Spirit Animal Guide (or Contrary Medicine), there will likewise exist a powerful presence, just as is the case of those choosing to follow the upright teachings of this Guide. However, when Contrary, they will instead use that formidable presence as a means to manipulate others into doing their bidding, rather than utilizing this gift for the Greater Good.

Another sign that one with this majestic Spirit Animal as a Guide may be functioning from the Shadow rays of Lion's teachings, is when their admirable courage becomes exaggerated. When this occurs, these are the souls that that will take unnecessary risks, or make foolhardy decisions. Often, this stems from fear or insecurity in which they may feel that the only way of confronting those fears and insecurities, is by taking foolish, even dangerous, risks.

And the final manner in which the Shadow or Contrary expression of Lion may manifest in the human counterpart, is when the impressive inner, and/or outer, strength of these souls is over emphasized, leading them to take advantage of another's perceived weakness. Or conversely, they may fear their own strength, holding a part of themselves back out of the concern that their powerful nature will devour them or those whom they love.

Yet when the human with this Spirit Animal Guide can follow the intended teachings of this amazing creature being, they will shine in their ability to be a key figure in the cooperative efforts of a group to effect positive change. By calling upon their courage and strength, their powerful presence can call attention to just and worthy causes that will benefit a Greater Good.
Messages and Lessons

Should this mighty big cat have recently appeared in your life as a Messenger or Lesson Guide, then it may be because you've not been taking care of yourself physically, and your vitality is suffering as a result. If so, then Spirit Animal Lion would like to remind you that there's many things you can do, starting today, to improve your health and wellness. While eating right and getting enough rest and adequate exercise are of course important, he would also like to remind you that having a sunny state of mind goes a long way in reducing the stress that's been proven to cause all kinds of illness and disease. Improve your way of looking at life, and your health may also take a turn for the better, Lion advises you.

Another reason that this Spirit Animal may have surfaced in your personal journey of late, is to assist you in finding your niche as part of a group. While taking a lead role is often the most appealing to our human egos, this impressive feline would like to remind you that it's the combined efforts of the group, and not the singular effort of the individual, that yields the greatest results. Are you cooperating with others toward a shared goal or common interest, be that in the work place, or as part of a humanitarian effort? This is an important question Lion asks, as he has been drawn toward you to advise you that each of us as individuals, needs a larger community to truly thrive.

One of the final reasons behind this amazing Spirit Guide's sudden emergence in your life, is so that you may recognize the impact that your presence has upon others. This is a time in which people in general will be taking particular notice of you. Therefore, he would ask you how you'd like to have yourself be seen. As someone merely out for their own benefit, regardless of the personal toll your actions may take upon others? Or, as one who is warm and caring, and calls upon that powerful presence as a means to promote the Greater Good?



**Excerpt from my upcoming book "A Magickal Journey with the Spirit Animal Guides," ©Copyright Diana Willden-Willoughby**



Curious about other Spirit Animal Guides? Just click on the highlighted text to be navigated to the list. Or, perhaps you're interested in finding out what your own Spirit Animal Guides are. If so, then a Life Path reading will introduce you to the nine Animal Totems that journey beside you. To learn more about what this reading offers, then you may want to visit the Readings page for details.

THANKS to SOURCE:

http://wolfs-moon.com/spiritanimallion.html

[Myriel RAouine]

The Hug of the Century

• Posted by Steve Hutchinson, Admin. on September 2, 2014 at 6:37am in THE ANIMALS
• Back to THE ANIMALS Discussions

Hi everyone. I want to share a very precious video with you proving that love and compassion is the key to peace and unconditional love....

Love comes in all shapes and sizes. A woman found a badly injured lion in the forest. She took it with her and nursed it back to health. When it was better, she made arrangements with a zoo to take the lion and give it a new and happy home. This video was taken when she returned to the zoo some time later to see how her lion was doing. Watch the lion's amazing reaction when he sees her!