Misunderstood
from the Beginning
The unique
cousin of the horse, the donkey most likely got its nickname, the “ass,” from
its Latin name, equus africanus asinus, and not as a critique of its skills or
lack thereof.
This hoofed mammal is no fool. In fact, donkeys can be quite cunning, and some have even exhibited quite a sense of humor on occasion. Once you study this unique equine, you’ll begin to see that the character of Donkey in the movie, “Shrek,” was not too far off the mark as personality possibilities go.
Related: The Symbolism Of A Goat Sighting
Donkey Symbolism
and Spirituality
Often, the donkey is associated with less than flattering symbolism, such as being a beast of burden, a workhorse, being stubborn, or just an “ass.” However, the donkey’s history and longevity go way beyond those limiting beliefs.
Some historians believe that donkeys were first domesticated nearly 4,500 years ago. Its history begins in the desert, a place that can hold many dangerous foes, as well as harsh terrain. This is where they honed some of the skills that are symbolically linked to the donkey, such as faith, fortitude, and intelligence. They are reported to have come to the Americas and Mexico around 1,500 A.D., and they were often used as “workhorses,” working in the mines either hauling equipment or the spoils of the dig.
Braying is
the loud and distinct way in which donkeys communicate, sometimes as a warning
or out of fear, which symbolizes one’s ability to speak up and be heard. They
are also associated with those who stand their ground, shown by their unique intuition
that causes them to stop dead in their tracks without moving a muscle when they
sense movement or sounds that could mean danger. So, call them a stubborn ass
if you want, but there’s no denying that the desert gave the donkey many useful
and positive skills.
Spirit/Totem
Animal
If the
donkey is your totem animal, you are likely someone on the front lines of any
situation. You like being of service to others, perhaps working as a soldier, fireman,
or nurse for example. Whatever your profession, your personality is one that people
consider a kind soul who finds joy in helping others.
As mentioned, donkeys possess intuitive powers that often keep them out of danger’s way. If the donkey is your spirit guide, he can heighten your senses and give you the gift of being cautious. When faced with a dilemma, the donkey spirit causes you to weigh all options before proceeding, rather than running headlong into trouble.
Related: The Meaning Behind A Bear Sighting
Dreaming of
a Donkey
If you’re
dreaming of a donkey, it’s a sign of something going on in your waking life. It’s
time to once and for all decide if you’re going to give in a little or be a
stubborn stick in the mud.
If you have
a dream where you are riding a donkey, it’s a symbol of your kindness and
honesty. You’re too humble to prance around on an Arabian horse, your donkey
works just fine.
If a donkey is loudly braying in your dreams, it’s lighting up your awareness, letting you know that someone you consider a friend may not be who they appear.
Related: Choosing the Right Crystals for Good Dreams
Cultural and
Religious Connections
Historically,
the donkey has always been an invaluable part of life for many people in
countries such as Ireland and China. In these vast and green landscapes,
donkeys were, and sometimes still are, charged with the most invaluable jobs of
clearing fields, carrying water, and basically being a lifeline to those
without piped water or other modes of transportation.
In both the Old and New Testament of the Bible, there are many references to donkeys, as they played a huge part in the lives of people of those times. In the Old Testament, there is the story of “Balaam’s Ass,” which, for one, suggests that these beasts of burden are sensitive to the presence of God, even more so than the humans that command them. Also, Mary, mother of Jesus, rode a donkey into Bethlehem to start her life with Joseph.
The donkey
was also the symbol of the Egyptian sun god, Ra, as well as the Greek god,
Dionysus.
Literary
Donkeys
While we can
often find a multitude of references to donkeys in literature worldwide, many
of the ancient writings depict them in a negative light. Shakespeare is most
credited with using the word “ass” as a description of someone who is stupid or
considered a joke in many of his plays.
In the twentieth century, in film and literature, the donkey remains a strong presence. In 1951, George Orwell published Animal Farm, where Benjamin the donkey proves to be a loyal friend to Boxer the horse. However, Benjamin has a cynical side and is very clear in his opposition to things in life having to change. And let’s not forget the loveable yet somewhat negative character, Eeyore, in Winnie the Pooh. And, of course, one of the most memorable movie donkeys, mentioned earlier, the boisterous, curious, sometimes annoying, and always hyperactive donkeys of all time, Donkey of the “Shrek” movies.
Related: The Symbolism Of Seeing An Elk
There’s more to your dreams than you think! That’s why a dream analysis reading can get to the bottom of your dreams and discover what they have to say about your past, present, and future. Our dream analysis psychics know that no two dreams are alike. Aren’t you curious about your dreams?
Find a dream analysis psychic or learn more about dream analysis readings.
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