Peacock

As a symbol, a peacock had a double -and often ambiguous- meaning. On the one hand it represents immortality, longevity and love. On the other hand, it is a symbol of worldliness, pride and vanity. Here are the most common meanings:

Pride and Vanity: Perhaps the most common association, stemming from the bird's elaborate display of colorful tail feathers. This connects to both positive self-confidence and negative arrogance.

Beauty and Splendor: The peacock's stunning plumage makes it a universal symbol of natural beauty, elegance, and aesthetic magnificence.

Immortality and Renewal: In ancient Greek mythology, the peacock was sacred to Hera and associated with the "eyes" on its tail feathers representing the all-seeing divine. The bird's annual molting and regrowth of feathers symbolized renewal and eternal life.

Spiritual Watchfulness: Many traditions interpret the eye-like patterns on peacock feathers as symbols of divine omniscience, spiritual awareness, or protection against evil.

Royalty and Nobility: Across cultures from ancient Persia to medieval Europe, peacocks adorned royal gardens and became symbols of aristocratic power and luxury.

Religious Significance: In Christianity, the peacock represents resurrection and eternal life. In Hinduism, it's associated with Lakshmi (goddess of wealth) and serves as the mount of Kartikeya. Buddhist traditions see it as a symbol of compassion.

Integrity and Honesty: Some interpretations focus on the peacock's inability to hide its true nature, making it a symbol of authenticity.

The specific meaning often depends on cultural context and how the peacock appears - whether displaying its feathers proudly, in a peaceful state, or as part of religious imagery.