The symbolism of the Fox, a discreet and cunning animal that is part of European totems. 🦊
There are many of these, and as you might expect, at Runes de Chêne, we like to take an interest in what has come down to us through the ages.
But first, let's bust a myth.
Fox is not the real name of this animal! 😲
It was the tale of Jean de la Fontaine , the novel of Renart, which popularized this term.
In reality, in the countryside, we prefer the historical term: a fox.
But for obvious reasons of referencing and understanding, we will continue to talk about Renard throughout the article.
The fox in European folklore: symbol of cunning and transformation
The fox has a prominent place in European folklore. One of the most famous tales is the Roman de Renart , a series of French medieval tales from the 12th century, where a fox named Renart is a cunning and mischievous character, playing tricks on the powerful animals of the forest, including the wolf Ysengrin. 📘
These stories reflect an ambivalent vision of the fox: sometimes admired for its intelligence, sometimes feared for its cunning which is in reality very useful for survival, it being neither the biggest animal in the forest, nor the most resistant, nor the most ferocious.
In Germany, the fox is often associated with the goddess Holda, protector of the souls of the deceased and the spirits of the forest. 🌳
Norse mythology also links it to figures of ambivalence and transformation, notably Loki, the trickster god, who shares many qualities with this animal.
The Fox and Man: Stories of Adaptation
From a more ethological point of view, the fox is a fascinating example of survival and adaptation. It has developed in very varied environments, from the deep forests of Eastern Europe to modern cities, where it manages to live discreetly despite the ever-increasing influence of man.
This behavior arouses respect and admiration: it is able to adapt without losing its wild character. 🏞️
Historically, the fox has long been hunted for its fur, but also for its reputation as an enemy of farmers, being accused of devouring chickens and other livestock.
However, he was also respected for his hunting skills.
In the Middle Ages, fox hunting became a noble sport, a symbol of the struggle between man and wild nature. ⚜️
Spiritual symbol of the fox: between two worlds
The Fox is a twilight animal.
" And that alone is super classy to write. "
He is at home on the edge of day and night, and is often seen as a ferryman between worlds. He guides those seeking transformation and reinvention. 🌗
He reminds us that to survive, we must sometimes blend into the shadows, observe in silence before acting with agility. People who feel a strong connection with the fox totem are often able to navigate complex situations, thanks to their intuition and their ability to see beyond appearances.
In European shamanic practices, the fox is associated with stealth and the art of concealing one's intentions. It teaches one to carefully observe one's surroundings and to move without being seen, reminding one that true power often lies in subtlety. 🥷
In European occultism, the Fox is associated with the forces of darkness and the spirit world, acting as a guide between the visible and invisible dimensions, the material planes and the more ethereal planes. It is said to help one perceive the truth hidden behind appearances and to use discretion as a tool of spiritual protection.
He is also a master of transformation, symbolizing the ability to reinvent oneself in the face of challenges and transitions. 🪄
The Fox's Legacy Today: A Modern Symbol of Resilience
Today, the fox is more than ever a symbol of resilience in the face of modern challenges. In urban environments, it adapts to human presence with the same cunning and discretion that characterize its legend. It represents the ability to thrive even in changing and difficult conditions. 🦊
For those who identify with the fox, its totem carries a strong message: it invites us to trust our instincts, to face difficulties with ingenuity and to seize hidden opportunities. It reminds us that cunning, far from being a flaw, is sometimes an essential quality for surviving and thriving.
And you, what is your European totem? 🦉🐺🐻
