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bear

bear

The bear appears in many canting arms, an association made because of the similarity between it and bearers's names. According to medieval bestiaries, the bear licked its cubs into shape, thus signifying the Church's conversion of pagans. It signifies strength, resilience and perseverance.

power

Across northern Europe, the bear was considered the king of animals until the 12th or 13th century. The Sami of Scandinavia and the Celts of Britain are among the indigenous peoples who revere the bear for its power.

protection

Native American tribes of North America and Canada use the bear's hide for clothing and shelter, eat its meat for food, and wear its claws to bring protection and good luck. A mother bear is a particularly fierce protector of her cubs.

strength

It is well known that the emblem of the bear is associated with tremendous strength. The folklore of most countries claims that if one wears a bear's claw, the strength of this beast will be passed on to the wearer.

warlike

Old Norse warriors called berkserkers likely wore cloaks made from bear pelts during battle. Many indigenous peoples, including the Celts of Britain, the Sami of Scandinavia, and the Native American tribes of North America, consider the bear a courageous warrior.

bear is also a symbol of resurrection, protector of family.