Everything To Know About Raven Symbolism: Meanings, In Dreams & More

In animal medicine and across various cultures, the raven represents magic, says Hae Lee, a spiritual teacher, healer, and author of Reiki Illustrated.

Seeing a raven in your waking or dream life can often be a clear sign that meaningful change is coming. “When the raven appears in your life, it signifies an impending shift in consciousness, beckoning you to explore the inner realms and illuminate the shadows within,” Lee explains.

The raven can represent various themes depending on your culture, lineage, and belief system. Maggie Wilson, author of the forthcoming book Metaphysical AF, says the raven is a highly intelligent animal associated with the winter solstice—notably, the darkest day of the year.

In Norse mythology, for example, ravens served as important messengers for the god Odin, while in Celtic tradition, ravens were associated with knowledge and divine prophecy1. Other cultures believed that ravens were related to war and battle, and in some Native American traditions, ravens represented the creation of the world and good luck.

“Across all cultures, it is evident that humans have reverence for this bird,” says spiritually-oriented psychotherapist Maja Zovko, LMSW. “We see the myths represent their brilliance, their ability to overcome obstacles, as well as humans’ fear of darkness. Taking this into account, Raven—the messenger of the shadow—is bearing gifts needed for our healing.”

According to astrologer and spirituality expert, Eden Sky Orion, ravens are spirit guides who come bearing important life lessons. “In mythology, ravens would carry messages to and from the gods,” she says.

The raven can also be a sign that you’re ready to accept both the light and the darkness—and face your shadows head-on, spiritual teacher and healer Maggie Gold, M.A., tells mindbodygreen.

Although ravens aren’t necessarily a “bad” omen, Orion says that ravens can sometimes represent symbolic “deaths” and endings—like a spiritual awakening, or even a dark night of the soul.

If you continuously see raven symbols emerging in your life, Orion says it’s a clear invitation to explore the animal’s unique meaning.

“Research all different types of associations—culturally, mythologically, and throughout history—and see how they connect to your life right now,” she suggests, adding, “It’s always good to go to your own lineage first. Then go to the cultural meanings [from other traditions] to gather inspiration and see what resonates with you.”

Seeing an animal symbol multiple times means that it’s there to support you, Orion adds. If you notice the raven is trying to send you a message, she recommends consciously harnessing its energy in real life. “Print out a picture of a raven or find an image and make it your phone background to consciously connect with the energy that’s already trying to connect with you,” she says. 

And according to Gold, seeing a raven is a reminder that you can’t separate light from dark—and if you’ve been ignoring or compartmentalizing different aspects of yourself, practicing self-love and self-acceptance can help you integrate your experiences. “When we allow ourselves to see all parts [of ourselves] with love, we release the pain of disconnection and move much closer to wholeness,” she says.

Dreaming about a raven is another clear sign to reflect on the “dark” parts of your life and bring them to light, especially if you've been struggling with something tough lately, says Zovko.

“Finding the root cause of suffering and exposing the ‘shadow’ is the number one step to uncovering what is causing our misalignment,” she says. “If the raven is appearing in your dreams, ask yourself, ‘What do I need to see for my healing to move forward?’ Then, get still and be patient until you hear the answer.” 

If you notice ravens appearing in your dreams, Zovko recommends taking some time to write in a journal, draw, paint, or engage in another creative activity you’re drawn to. This can help relax your body, allow your subconscious to speak, and reveal important messages about your life that you need to hear.

Although the raven can seem like a dark, foreboding presence, Wilson says the raven ultimately serves as a reminder to harness your inner power. “Everyone has a unique and powerful magic within and Raven has been thought to help shape-shift our lives dramatically. Raven symbolizes the opportunity to be the magician of your life,” she explains.

While the raven may symbolize metaphorical death and transformation for some, you shouldn’t be afraid if you encounter one (or multiple) on your path.