Raven Trivia

I’m often asked, “Why Raven?”
Good question.  

I hope the following can provide some insight.

The raven is a misunderstood and underestimated bird. Whether called a raven, rook or crow, this bird is an intelligent, resourceful and creative creature. If you want to be amazed, watch this video. It is very convincing! I bet you’ll become a fan of this bird species, as I am.

Historically, the raven has played a role in many mythologies, due in no small part, to it’s problem-solving talents.

As the collector of bright objects, the raven represents the pursuit of knowledge and divine providence. The symbol of the crow signifies that the bearer is someone who is watchful and vigilant for friends.

Denmark
The Danes used the raven as a heraldic symbol.

China
The Chinese see the raven as symbol of gratitude, because it is a bird that it feeds its parents.

Japan
The raven is an expression of family affection. It is also regarded as a messenger of the gods, the herald of victories to come. Being a solar bird, it is represented as a red bird.

Greece
In Ancient Greece, the raven is sacred to Apollo. It is among the attributes of Mithras.

British Isles
For the Celts, the raven bird plays a prophetic role. According to the Pseudo-Plutarch, the name of Lyons , Lugdunum, is to be translated as “Raven’s Hill” and not as “Lug’s Hill” because a flight of ravens showed the founders where to build the city. The bird was also sacred to the Gauls.

Germany
In German mythology, ravens were companions of Wotan.

Norway & Sweden
In Scandinavian mythology, two ravens perched on Odin’s throne : Hugin (Mind) and Munnin (Memory).

North America
For North American Indians, the raven represents thunder and wind. The Mayas had a similar represented in the Popol-Vuh.

Source: Special thanks to Swyrich Corporation for the references above.