What does a bear symbolize?

The bear is generally feared and admired at the same time for its strength and power. In Native American culture, the bear symbolizes strength, confidence and courage.

In myth and lore, different bears can symbolize different things. For instance, a black bear symbolizes being resourceful, a brown bear symbolizes standing up for one's beliefs, a grizzly symbolizes facing your deepest fears, a Kodiak bear is said to symbolize ferocity, a sun bear symbolizes caution, foresight and wisdom and a polar bear symbolizes ultimate survival. Sometimes, the bear is also looked upon as a protector or defender because of its power.