When we think of Autumn, and more importantly, Halloween (or Samhain as it’s known in my pagan circles) there are several animals that come to mind and most of them have a bit of an ominous feel about them. Bats, spiders, and black cats. Animals that make us think of darkness and the descent into the Underworld. But I want to tell you about the wisdom of the crow.
That’s what Autumn is all about.
One of the animals that is deeply associated with Autumn is the Crow, and he has wisdom and magic to teach us. Crow is black bird that represents magic and the Underworld. Crows are also associated with Raven, as Raven is a type of Crow. All Ravens are Crows but not all Crows are Ravens! Crow is a very intelligent and also very trainable bird. Those that have them as pets have been able to train them to communicate in certain ways, as well as use simple tools. Crow is also a bird that is good at survivability. He is a scavenger and will steal food from other birds and people as well. Crows always have a sentinel posted so they can have warning when danger is near. They are very wary and are good at recognizing danger.
Crows make their nests high up for protection and they keep their nest very clean. Even the young crows keep the nest clean. This is an important lesson for those with crow as spirit guide. You should take a look at your home and see if you are respecting your space. Crows are also a representation of magic. They are symbols of creation, protection from negativity, and spiritual strength.
Crow magic reminds us to embrace the magic and secrets of life.
When Crow happens upon your path you need to be willing to walk your talk and speak your truth. You must put aside your fear of embracing your true self, your authentic voice, your raspy “caw” and speak whatever truth comes to you. Crow also represents: Change, honesty at all costs, destiny, flexibility, adaptability, interpretation of messages, magical force, keen insight, the ability to wear many faces, bravery, self-understanding, and the ability to see the past, present and the future as one coherent image.
In Ireland, the Morrigan comes in the shape of a crow. She can be harbinger of war, and death, but that's not necessarily meant in a negative way – more like you say, a reminder of cleansing, letting things go, letting them "die" if they don't serve you.
I love crows!
so lovely that I'm seeing this now…I've been seeing crows, black birds and even vultures recently!