Sacred Animal Paths

 Christianity: Animals guard the Tree of Life.

 Buddhism: Through humanity and the belief that all life forms are interconnected, vows are taken to never take a single life—even flies must live! Vegetarianism is India’s path of ritual purification. Buddhists adapted these eating habits out of respect for all living things.

 Native Americans: Animals and humans have the same inward elements. Bear is the closest, as it can stand and appear almost human. The medicine wheel shares astrological symbolism. Shamans believe humans and animals physically come together as one form. The medicine wheel represents the unending connection of the flow of energy life force among all living creatures.

 Snow Goose, Otter, Wolf = Winter/Totem White Buffalo.

 Hawk, Beaver, Deer = Spring/Totem Eagle.

 Brown Bear, Salmon, Woodpecker = Summer/Totem Coyote.

 Raven, Snake, Owl = Autumn/Totem Grizzly Bear

 Asian/Chinese: Guidance for Yin/Yang balance. An animal’s immortality was given according to its arrival to be with Lord Buddha. Rat, Cow, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Ram, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, Pig. Cat was not invited because it was believed Rat would not be safe.