When we go on safari, we are there to enjoy the animals. But to the African people each animal signifies certain character qualities. This is why you see so many carvings of animals, animals embroidered onto African clothing and weaved into their wall hangings. This is what some of the animals symbolize:
THE LION - The lion is an emblem for royalty, strength, conquest, valor, pride, wisdom, authority, courage and protection. the lioness represents the moon, femininity and fierce motherhood.
THE LEOPARD - The leopard signifies ferocity, aggression, the Great Watcher and courage.
THE ZEBRA - The zebra symbolizes freedom and individuality.
THE ELEPHANT - The elephant signifies strength, royalty, dignity, patience, wisdom, longevity, and happiness. A large symbol of good luck, especially when its trunk is pointed up. The elephant represents status and power since royalty used to ride on elephants. For Christmas in Africa, the elephant is a symbol of clarity and temperance an signifies Christ trampling a serpent.
THE GIRAFFE - The giraffe is an emblem for gentleness, gracefulness in action, larger perspective, and dignity.
THE CAMEL - Although many cultures see the camel as a symbol of arrogance, laziness and bad temper, African's have a much different view. Countries that use camels see it in a more positive light. In Africa, the camel is a symbol of sobriety, and for Christians it is a symbol of temperance because it drops to its knees to receive a burden, as if before God in humility and obedience.
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