Totems (and Why Not Everyone Has One)

It seems to be quite the little fad in the Pagan community in which everyone thinks they have an "animal totem". I see numerous forum threads and/or blog posts asking "What's your animal totem?" or "Find out your animal totem here". Little do these people realize they're perpetuation nonsense fed from HORRIBLE sources who think it's ok to STEAL (yes, I used the right word) cultural aspects from indigenous peoples, and it needs to be stopped.

For one thing, you're misappropriating a cultural tradition. Just like the ceremonial Headdress of many a Native tribe (which is worn as a fashion statement to many a music festival and concert, to which we natives find VERY offensive), totems are not something you just throw around because you think it applies to you. It's not a fashion trend or some revered animal you like. Just because you love wolves, eagles and foxes; dream about them and hang their image on your walls doesn't mean this is your "animal totem".

The animal totem is believed to be the emblem or founder of certain indigenous Native tribes. When you go around claiming that the "Wolf" is your totem, you're essentially mocking those Native tribes who take the symbolism of the Totem VERY seriously. It's almost borderline racism.

I mean, you wouldn't walk around with an African ceremonial mask on and claim it has spiritual significance to you having absolutely nothing to do with the African heritage from whence it came, would you? No, because that would be culturally inappropriate. You don't understand the true nature behind the mask, so why would you think it would be ok to wear one? Same concept goes behind assuming you have an "animal totem".

It's perfectly fine if you love the animal you love. It's ok to find spiritual association with them, to revere them in great ways and honor them with whatever decoration you wish. But don't assume these are your animal totems. The animal totem is not what everyone thinks it is.

Animal totems are NOT animals you:
-dream about
-are fond of or have affinities for
-find on an online quiz
-are told from a friend or even stranger
-find following you around the neighborhood


Animal totems ARE culturally important aspects of the spiritual nature found within many Native tribes and clans. They hold great spiritual significance to these people just as much as any Pagan finds in the religion they follow. You see the uproar that happens when a right- or left-wing party misappropriates Pagan religions and turns them into a farce, yet many Pagans find it perfectly acceptable to misappropriate cultural aspects that have ZERO to do with Eastern Pagan systems (including Wicca!!) Excuse me for saying, but HYPOCRITE much!!

The only way a person has a "Totem" is if they are part of an indigenous clan or tribe (and can PROVE their association). No clan/tribe? No Totem!