A few years ago, I had a series of vivid dreams. Each of them had one thing in common: a black panther...
The first dream began while I was walking in the woods with my lover at dusk. I saw the panther approaching us from the side, and I initially felt afraid. But, as the panther drew closer, I began to feel comforted and safe. The big cat walked beside us for a few moments, then turned and sprinted toward the trees. He looked back at me once. I'll never forget those haunting eyes.
In the dreams that followed, I was no longer afraid when I saw the panther; I was relieved. I felt as if I were being watched, guarded, and protected. Curious about what these dreams meant, I did some research and discovered that I was dreaming about my "totem animal".
Many different animal spirits come and go at different points in our lives, and they often come to us in our dreams. They reveal things we need to learn about ourselves or provide us with something we need. However, we all have one specific Totem Animal that stays with us for life. Mine is the Black Panther. Here is what I learned about this spirit guide, and what it reveals about me:
The Panther is a very ancient and powerful spirit guide. Their power is lunar (moon). In Egyptian rites a panther tail was worn around the neck or waist to help protect and strengthen the individual. Panther has been a symbol of the "Argos of a Thousand Eyes," who protected the heifer IO whom Zeus loved. After his death, the eyes were moved to the feathers of the peacock.
Black Panther's Power Includes astral travel, guardian energy, symbol of the feminine, death and rebirth, understanding of death, reclaiming ones power, ability to know the dark, aggressiveness and power without solar influence, reclaiming Power.
Panthers are generally loners, extremely comfortable with themselves and are often drawn to other solitary people. Women with Panther, Leopard or Jaguar power animals frequently find themselves raising their children alone, whether it be through divorce or circumstance. People with this power animal can develop clairaudience, the ability to hear communications from other forms of life or dimensions. They must trust their thoughts and inner voice/visions as they are based in reality. This is an animal guide to assist you on your path, sometimes in the form of a real person such a mentor or teacher. The Black Panther is endowed with great magic and power, which will increasingly be experienced. Panther holds the secrets of worlds that are unseen and are associated with lunar energies. Within the darkness of night resides the truth of creation. Black panthers have great mysticism associated with them. They represent the life and power of the night. They can show us how to welcome the darkness and rouse the light within it. Those with this power animal contain knowledge of a galactic origin, and have a responsibility to look after and respect this knowledge. Caution must be used when sharing it with others. When the student is ready the teacher appears, and vice versa. If the student isn't ripe the information given could trigger negative consequences.
Panthers possess acute sensitivity. The hairs that cover their lithe bodies, especially on the face, pick up subtle vibrations. This is symbolic for those with this guide. It is an indication of a need to pay attention to their feelings and honour the messages those feelings transmit.
Touch can be a significant path to explore to awaken ones concealed gifts. The black panthers sleek, smooth and sensual coat has been linked to sexuality. If panther comes into your life it may be asking you to resolve old sexual issues, or to embrace your sexuality fully.
When experiencing the presence of panther, one of their most striking features is their unblinking stare. It seems to see right through the body. Those with panther medicine can use their eyes as a healing tool and have the potential to heal on a cellular level.
Panther is a powerful guide to have, always bringing a guardian energy to those to whom it comes.
My research explained so many things ~ my fascination with all things dark and mystical, my connection to the moon, why I feel so comfortable being alone (I've been divorced for 16 years, and yes, did indeed raise my children alone), and why people have frequently commented on my "hypnotic gaze" (I also have the moon in Scorpio in western astrology, which enhances this trait as well). The panther also appeared during a time when I was embarking upon the greatest love affair of my life. Part of me was afraid to jump in, let go, and be vulnerable, but I believe the panther was trying to reassure me that I was safe with this man. Three years later, we're still loving and growing together.
Have you explored your animal spirit guide and its meaning? I'd love to hear about your experiences.
~Barbara
