What does a feather symbolize?

Although feathers generally symbolize an ascension and spiritual evolution to a higher plane, they have varying connotations among different cultures. Among the many symbolic meanings of feathers, truth, speed, lightness and flight are common.

The significance of feathers as a symbolic expression is evident in many cultures. For instance, in Native American culture, a feather symbolizes trust, honor, strength, wisdom, power and freedom, and it is expected to be treated with the utmost respect. In Egyptian culture, the feather symbolizes Shu, the Egyptian god of air, and Ma’at, the goddess of truth and order. In Egyptian mythology, Ma’at weighs the hearts of deceased people against a feather to determine their worthiness to enter the afterlife. In Christianity, a feather represents the virtues of faith, hope and charity.