Zebra Symbolism & Meaning

Etymology: There is some discussion among linguists about the origin of Zebra. It may have evolved over the Latin equiferus, meaning fierce or wild horse. The term itself appeared in Italy around the 1600s.

Zebra’s symbolism and meaning begin in its stripes. The black and white, much like the Yin and Yang represents balance. Did you know that no two Zebras have the same stripe pattern? This patterning makes them true individuals, akin to a fingerprint in humans. With this in mind, Zebra is a great emblem for self-awareness and distinctiveness. Additionally, Zebra stripes act as camouflage, providing them with the additional symbolism of concealment or hiding in plain sight; to achieve this, Zebra’s attention must remain keen along with natural sensory abilities.

In their natural setting, Zebras make themselves aware of everything to avoid any predator; this is so natural to them that one member of a Zebra heard remains awake, on “watch” if you will, while the others sleep. This sense of protecting the community is very powerful. On a day-to-day basis, who are we watching out for all the time?

Zebras are part of the same family as horses. They are strong, fast, and pretty self-assured. Zebra doesn’t mind tossing a kick or two if need be. The Zebra’s skin is actually black, with white hair patterned on top. As the saying goes, they cannot change their stripes because that is how other members of their herd recognize them. .Zebra Medicine embraces all of that power, speed, and little friskiness for fun.

Zebra Spirit has a strong affinity for the herd. The social structure is predominantly male-centric with a community of female Zebras for back up. Again, here we see balance in Zebra along with a salute to both God and Goddess energies. Additionally, the focus on community cannot be overlooked. Zebra knows the power of a group working for one common goal. In fact, a heard could escape even their main predator, the lion using their ability to blend in as part of the overall plan. The Zebras stripes are most powerful when they act together. So, find your proverbial herd and be ready to take on nearly anything.

Scientists believe that Zebras naturally resist certain pests. From a metaphysical perspective, what’s bugging you? Are there negative vibes you should push away. Wrap the energy of Zebra around you for protection from the unwanted energy. Additionally, in spite of their symmetry, Zebras adapt well to various situations for survival. This is a creature that will not accept training. Freedom means something to Zebra spirit – he will not be tamed by anyone; this is a wonderful reminder to use to embrace Zebra’s message and stick to our truths firmly.

In general, Zebra Symbolism and meanings include socialization, the power of will, free-spirited, strength, friendliness, safety, and determination.

Zebra Spirit Animal

When Zebra comes into your life as a Spirit Animal, he asks you to look at your situation in more than one way. All too often, we are too close to the wall to see obvious ways around it, even those that are unconventional. If you are in a difficult situation or relationship, Zebra encourages equality and objectivity. Those two approaches are key to finding a fair and balanced resolution.

Another reason Zebra may contact you is if you are struggling with your sense of self. Now is the time to round out your vision and path and truly embrace it. We cannot accept the rest of our heard if we have not truly accepted ourselves; this, again, is true balance.

Zebra Spirit has some rollover energies with Horse in that they are related. Both animals move very quickly. If you have stagnated, Zebra says: Move now! Being stuck in the mud achieves nothing, that includes emotional mud like gossip.

Finally, if someone or something threatens your personal power and control, it’s time to move away from that situation. Zebra will not be domesticated, and you should not allow this to happen to your soul. Break out and run like the wind. Be free.

Zebra Totem Animal

If you were born with a Zebra Totem, you love to be part of a group but as a background player. You enjoy communities that provide supportive views and safety, but standing in the spotlight will never be your gig; this is perfectly fine and well suited to Zebra Medicine.

Concerning personality, Zebra is a what-you-see-is-what-you-get type individual. There is no double-speak in the Zebra vocabulary. While you are willing to flex for survival, there is only so far you’re willing to go before saying “enough.”

Zebra people don’t always do well in relationships. They feel that “domestication” restrains the freedom-loving person within. You move swiftly away from potential partners who come on too strong or seem domineering. You do better in a flexible relationship where you have your space and mutual respect.

Zebra people enjoy being part of a team, especially when they feel a challenge is involved. You do this so that everyone receives recognition, not just you. In this setting, you are very good at balancing out duties so that everyone has a fair share.

Zebra Power Animal

Call on Zebra as a Power Animal when you need to get your life back in balance. Perhaps someone or something has tilted your sense of self. Zebra challenges us to reclaim that. Another reason to invoke Zebra in magic or meditation is to hide yourself from a potentially dangerous or difficult situation. Don’t blend in so much that you disappear. Zebra helps you be part of a crowd without being too noticeable.

If your community or home is out of whack, Zebra brings harmony and balance to the picture. In any situation, there will be leaders and followers; Zebra acts as supporting energy. Zebra Medicine rekindles the spirit of compromise. Work with him in finding a way around your problems with your keen mind.

Native American Zebra Symbolic Meanings

There is not a lot about Zebra in the Native American traditions of the western world. However, in general, Shamans consider Zebra Spirit as one who brings clarity, balance, the ability to think on your feet, and confidence.

Zebra as an African Animal Symbol

Zebras are native to Africa, so there are many stories and symbols relating to them here. Consider the Coat of Arms for Botswana has two Zebras on it. Along the Ivory Coast, they often make masks of merged animals showing power. This custom includes Zebra, Crocodile, Chameleon, and Owl, just to name a few.

By far, the most popular tale in Africa and one with many versions is how Zebra got his stripes. It begins long ago when animals just arrived in Africa. The heat was blistering, and there was very little water. One Baboon guarded the water, claiming himself Lord.

Zebra came with his son to the Baboon’s waterhole. The Baboon was furious, claiming it for himself. Zebra challenged him, and Baboon said Zebra had to fight for the water they wanted. Zebra kicked Baboon so hard that he landed on his behind, and his hair came totally off (thus the bare patch to this day). Zebra tried to return to the waterhole but stumbled instead into a fire, creating burn marks across his fur. On that note, Zebra ran toward the plains as quickly as possible and never returned again.

Zebra Dreams

Zebra appearing in dreams is usually a sign that your life has gotten out of balance. Are you working too hard and not giving enough energy to hearth and home? Redirect your energy in a more positive way.
Zebra running from you is a positive omen. Whatever is tempting you is very risky. However, you have the willpower to resist and find another avenue to your goal. That path may be difficult, but patience results in success.

Another interpretation is that you will soon have a change in circumstances in which it is important to remain centered. Do not take sides, but rather look from both angles for the truth.

Far Eastern Zebra Symbolic Meanings

In Feng Shui, Zebra corresponds to the Fire Element. It represents creativity, calmness, and originality. You can use the image of a Zebra to evoke this, or even faux Zebra print on pieces of furniture or a pillow.

Zebra Symbolic Meanings Key

• Balance
• Clarity
• Determination
• Free Spirited
• Friendliness
• Power of Will
• Safety
• Socialization
• Strength
• Yin Yang

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