Objects and Natural Forces
Clouds, Rain and Lightning symbolize themselves as well as fertility and Spring. This particular symbol is often associated with the Hopi.
The Sun symbolizes life and warmth.
The Zia is the symbol of the Zia Pueblo Indians, and although it is usually
interpreted as the symbol of New Mexico, it is truly the symbol of the Zia
Pueblo.
The Man In The Maze symbolizes the journey of life and its decisions.
Spirits
Navajo Yeii Spirit symbolizes one who is midway between man and the creators
or Kachinas. They control most natural forces. It also symbolizes the
Yei'bi'che or talking God which helps advise man along the way.
Kokopelli symbolizes fertility, mainly male fertility, as well as they are
protector of the seeds.
The Twins symbolize much of what is thought of as pairs (good/bad,
male/female, day/night, large/small, Mother Sky, Father Earth)
The Hand symbolizes man and his accomplishments.
Arrows
Arrows symbolize direction, force, movement, power and are sometimes used to indicate the heartline of an animal.
Feathers
Feathers symbolize prayers or designate honor. Eagle feathers are most often used in association with honor.
Pahos or Prayer Sticks, are part of the religion and most often symbolize prayer to the Kachinas.
Circular Feathers symbolize the sun and the creator.
Animals
The Frog. Water animal, implies renewal, fertility & springtime.
Bear symbolizes power, strength and leadership.
Deer symbolizes speed sacrifice and a protector of the home.
Horned Lizard symbolize long living and annoys coyote.
Tadpole symbolizes fertility but stronger due to their ability to change into something else.
Turtle symbolizes long life and annoys coyote. Slow but steady.
Birds
A Pair of Hummingbirds symbolize devotion and are tough fighters. Small but strong.
Parrot symbolizes sun and rain.
Turkey symbolizes food as well as being a source of feathers.
Owl symbolizes being wise and nighttime, as well as good hunting skills.
Eagle symbolizes wisdom, courage, strength and a special religious connection due to his association with spirits and visions.
Snakes
Snake symbolizes speed, hunting, stealthness and the ability to move undetected.
Avanyu or Feathered Sky Snake symbolizes lightning and thunderstorms.
Tracks
Wolf Tracks symbolize direction as well as leadership
Deer Tracks symbolize safety and shelter.
Insects
Dragonfly symbolizes fertility and spring as well as being a messenger.
Cricket symbolizes fertility and spring.
Patterns
This is a common pattern used in Navajo weavings which is called a Storm pattern.
Usually water or whirlwinds indicating rebirth or renewal.
These can be clouds or the steps to a Kiva, usually indicating direction.
Usually this indicates Night and Day or Mountain and Sky. There have been occasions where it was used to represent man and woman.
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