Totem spirits play an important role in traditional native beliefs, and feature prominently in native mythology. They are spiritual incarnations of animals (like fox or bear) or natural forces (the north wind, or grandfather thunder) which exemplify the traits associated with that animal or phenomenon. They may be present in their earthly manifestations, but they aren't bound by physical forms.

The totem 'Raven', for example, is not just 'a raven', or 'all ravens' but The Raven - the one who personifies what it means to be a raven, and from whom all raven-like qualities are derived. Raven is the spiritual father of all ravens, and of all who are called by him.

You don't choose your totem, either. It's not like going to a supermarket and checking out the different paths available. Your Totem chooses You.

In traditional practice, a young adult would go on a spirit quest - a journey to find one's self, and be found by a totem. Often elaborate preparations were undertaken: sweat lodges, ritual cleansing, peyote ceremonies, fasting, and long journeys or extended isolation were all commonly used. It was expected that the questor would have a dream or vision in which they would be visited by their totem, and find direction in life. The totem which came may have reflected ideals which were important to the questor (such as a strong young brave being called by Bear, or a wise woman being visited by Owl) but it was also possible for a totem to choose unlikely followers (a timid boy might be met by Wolf, or Rabbit might call a noisy prankster). The questor did not have any choice in the matter - the totem knew who to call, and those who were called were expected to follow.

In modern times spirit quests are less common, but many people still find themselves called by or drawn to a totem. Perhaps a certain animal seems to be present at key times in their lives, or their dreams are haunted by a particular animal. Maybe a stressful event in life woke something within them, and they're trying to make sense of it all. Whatever path leads them to their totem, finding it seems to bring a special comfort in their lives, and a new sense of direction.

Raven as a Totem

Raven is a special totem. They are all special, of course, but Raven holds a unique place among totems. He is considered by many to be the creator, and sometimes savior, of man. According to legend, he made mankind, he brought them salmon to eat, he stole fire from the sun so mankind wouldn't freeze, he brought them water to drink during a drought, and he taught man to enjoy life. Raven is a cultural hero - a creator... and a trickster. Raven's mischief is legendary among the native tribes of the northwest. He is always playing tricks, changing shape, and never quite who or what or where you expect him to be. With such a complicated, shifting totem, it's not surprising that different people have different interpretations of Raven's personality and gifts. Still, several main themes come up when you look at Raven. Here are a few of the main aspects of this complex totem:

The Creator Aspect Raven is seen as giving life. He is primarily a helping, nurturing spirit. There is also a certain amount of self-sacrifice in his actions. He does what he does to ensure the happiness of others.

The Trickster Aspect Raven is associated with joy and laughter. He is known to play tricks, but they are usually beneficial ones, teaching people to laugh at their own follies.

The Great Magician Raven is seen as a shape-changer. He has the power to alter form, and to bring great changes in people's lives. He can also see through false forms, lies, and the tricks of others.

The Seeker of Secrets Raven has a great sense of curiosity. He is a gatherer of information, and a sharer of secrets. The search for the Truth is predominant.

The Juxtaposition of Opposites R