Symbolic Alligator Meaning and Crocodile Meaning
Crocodiles, alligators and caiman's are all similar to each other, so this page combines the three, and addresses caiman, as well as symbolic alligator meaning and crocodile meaning together. Alligators and crocodiles are in the same family and their main differences lie in their color, their habitats, the location of their teeth, and the shapes of their jaws. These differences should be keenly noted in your totemic observations. The differences that stand out will be the traits to pay attention to, as these outstanding features will lend meaning to these creature's messages.
These steely-eyed prehistoric predators hold ancient associations with many cultures. The word crocodile is from the Greek word, kroko deilos, which in some translations means, "pebble man," referring to the animals' scaly exterior. The term may also allude to the croc's "water dance," which is an event produced by male croc's seeking to woo their mates. They emit low vibration groans while attracting a mate. The vibration of their mating calls makes the water dance upon their scaly backs. The end effect of this water dance looks and sounds like pebbles dancing on the water's surface. This speaks to me about the importance of being creative when calling new partnerships to us. It also reminds me of rhythm. That pebble-bouncing of water droplets is a audio-rhythm of delight, a shimmering cascade for the ears. It talks about using all of our skills to attract the right people into our lives, unorthodox methods are sometimes the best way to forge connections/relationships.
Some keywords to consider in relation to alligator meaning and symbolic crocodile meaning...
These reptiles have highly acute senses. Crocodiles have amazing hearing and mothers can hear their babies while still inside their shells. As an animal totem, these animals represent fierce protection. Mothers will transport their young to water in pouches in her mouth and she will guard them like ferociously.
Alligator meaning and crocodile meaning talk to us about keen vision too. Their pupils widen at night, allowing them better vision and they can see very well underwater. That they can see underwater is a big totemic lesson. It tells us that we too can see clearly through our most ambiguous dreams, and perplexing emotions. The pronounced eyelids have the perfect camouflage, their scaly skin. The alligator encourages us to look but not be seen.
Because alligators, crocodiles and caiman's are associated with water, we're also talking about seeing clearly into emotional worlds. These creatures ask us to dive into our emotions and seek fluidity, healing and cleansing in these realms. Gators and crocs also ask us to utilize our dreams for emotional understanding. Call upon these creatures when you're in a crunch emotionally, or are unclear about how to heal yourself, or if you're having disturbing dreams. These creatures are fearless, and their energy is extremely forthright. They strike clarity into our lives when we call on them. Moreover, these creatures represent an equal balance between earth and water. With their help, we too can become grounded, and settled in our emotions.
Let us consider the rough, bony covering of the alligator. It is armor and can deflect bullets; however, his underside belly is soft. This speaks to us of duality and balance: the rigid and the vulnerable, the push and the pull, the mighty and the meek, the obvious and the hidden.
Alligator behavior bears heavily on the implications of this animal totem. They are precision in motion. They remain hidden, poised, and held in a show of ultimate control. They waste no movement. Once they have seized their prey, they will roll under water, hiding their catch under a log. This speaks of preparation, "stewing." Alligators are timing personified. We would do well to learn from them to make our choices wisely and, once made, allow them to take their course.
Temperature is very important to the reptile. Temperature represents a measure of activity. In some cases, as with the alligator, a higher temperature will ensure a male offspring, and a cooler one, a female. This calls our attention to our environment. We could ask ourselves if we are living in agreement with our surroundings. Are we fighting elements in our lives? Or, can we do as the alligator does and keenly adjust ourselves in harmony with our conditions?
In the Hindu chakra system, the crocodile governs the sacral chakra (Svadhisthana). This is a developmental energy, as the sacral chakra is a power-center of creation. The crocodile in this chakra encourages creativity and balance. This chakra-crocodile goes deep into our emotional core and resurfaces with dynamic creative power. Read more about chakra animal symbols here.
Symbolism of the great crocodile parallels in several aspects with its ancient brother, the shark. Both rulers are amazingly strong, silent, cunning, and fearless. Both have highly effective skin and perpetually regenerate their teeth.
In many Native American tribes, alligators are symbols of status and power. Because it is easily comfortable on land and water, many tribes consider them as creatures responsible for creation. The alligator is a mediator in many Native legends, because it emerged from primordial waters in creation myths and brought forth the sun and the earth.
Mayan legend tells of four crocodiles supporting the entire world - keeping it's delicate balance in-tack by the strength of their backs and with fierce determination. The alligator appears in Mayan astrology too. In their zodiac, those born under this Day-Sign are instinctively superior and sensitive to criticism. Those with the alligator animal totem should examine their fears, both conscious and subconsciously. People born under the alligator/crocodile sign of the Mayan zodiac also have access to incredible, primordial power. They are open to new beginnings, and often see opportunities where others see nothing.
The Egyptians so adored the crocodiles, they named a town after them: Crocodilopolis, where these creatures were worshipped and adorned with bedazzling gold and jewels. The crocodile god, Sobek, symbolized ultimate power, protection, and fertility to the ancient Egyptians. Sobek was one among several gods responsible for weighing the souls of the dead. In this light, we can't overlook the symbolism of discernment, judgment, authority and guidance in conjunction with the crocodile and the role of Sobek in ancient Egypt.
At the crux of caiman, alligator meaning and crocodile meaning is their prehistoric status. These creatures are ancient, and have evolved very little over their reign beginning over 50 million years ago. These creatures represent a deep, abiding connection with the Mother (Nature), and perhaps that's the most profound wisdom they have to share. When the alligator or crocodile make an appearance in our lives, we are bound to ask questions like...
Call on the alligator/crocodile/caiman for help in each of these areas, because they are highly equipped to assist in clarity and productivity in each instance.
I hope you have enjoyed this page on alligator meaning and crocodile meaning. See the links below for more relevant information on animal meaning and symbolism.