What To Know About The Spiritual Meaning Of Elephants + What To Do If You're Seeing Them

Are elephant images or figurines appearing in your waking or dream life? These strong mammals are known to represent happiness, good luck, loyalty, power, or stability. Read on to find out more about elephant symbolism and what elephants may signify—whether they're in your dreams or waking life. 

And as animal communicator, psychic medium, and clairvoyant Nancy Mello tells mindbodygreen, when elephants come up in sessions, "They tend to symbolize the best in all of us; they are strength and weakness," adding, "By understanding that they truly feel everything and everything, when we see them—we can often relate it to the ups and downs of life." 

If elephant symbolism is coming into your life, the following spiritual meanings could relate to what this animal may be communicating to you: 

"Elephants have a long history of being revered as messengers from the spiritual realms," says Aúgusta, adding, "In many cultures, they symbolize strength, power, and fertility."

Elephants can represent new beginnings or powerful changes. "It's not unusual to have a human client go through something transformative and start seeing elephants all over the place (for instance on TV, on fabric, on the subway, etc.)," shares Mello, noting that they signify "true growth."

"Elephants have relatively poor eyesight, so they rely mainly on their sense of smell," explains Maggie Wilson, author of The Metaphysical Cannabis Oracle Deck. "This is important because smell is often associated with sexual drive and the elephant is a 'sex symbol,'" she adds.

According to Aúgusta, "Elephants are known to have tight family bonds and are often seen as symbols of loyalty, stability, and security." These peaceful creatures can also represent connection and acceptance with family. "They can be seen as a reminder to stay connected with family and friends even when apart," she explains, with Mello adding that elephants can symbolize acceptance, usually relating to being accepting of family members. 

"Within certain African societies, elephants represent wealth and position in the social order," says Aúgusta. Lianne Jones, owner of Spirit of Sapphire, adds, "In many African cultures, the elephant is held in high esteem as a symbol of royalty, [and in others], the elephant is the epitome of strength." 

Meanwhile, Wilson tells mindbodygreen, elephants signify good luck and prosperity in Korea. "In Cambodia," she adds, "you will see elephant statues everywhere for protection and good fortune."

"In India, elephants are seen as divine figures; Lord Ganesh—an elephant-headed divinity—is honored for his wisdom, fortune, triumphs, and abundance," according to Aúgusta. Jones adds that Ganesha is believed to help with eliminating obstacles and brings good fortune.

If you're wondering how you'll know if you've received or understood the message, the animal will also give you a sign. As Aúgusta explains, the animal will stop appearing when you've understood the message. 

Another meaning could be that prosperity is coming. "An elephant appearing in your dreams can also be a sign that good fortune is on the way—this is particularly favorable if you've been through hardship," says Jones. 

Mammals, birds, and bugs can be a source of transmitting messages through symbols. Seeing elephants represents confidence, power, strength, wisdom and taking care of yourself.