Although Justin Bieber (who put one on his arm) and other celebrities, such as Drake (who has the image on his back), display inked tributes to the owl with no apparent explanation, there is a significance to this symbol that has ties to the occult and the Illuminati. Celebrities aren’t the only ones to embrace the creature, read some of the Harry Potter books and you’ll see a connection. The winged creature that many view as a representation of wisdom actually has a range of associations that include secrets, mystery, mysticism, and a connection to the underworld.
Keeper of Secrets
It’s not a coincidence that the owl serves as a symbol of the secret society called the Bohemian Grove – an elite men’s club with members who represent influential movers and shakers in an array of industries, including the arts and politics. The club has been shrouded in a cloud of mystery that heightens the perceived notions of member activities since those who participate are known to have wealth, power, and influence as an asset. For example, former U.S. President Richard Nixon spoke of attending Bohemian Grove events, and even mentioned the secret club in the Watergate tapes.
The Bohemian Grove incorporates the owl, and the bird serves as a mascot of the club, standing as a symbol of knowledge. Because of this, a hollow owl statue that stands 40 feet tall is positioned at the head of the lake found at the Grove. Constructed of concrete over steel supports, the sculpture is known as the ‘Owl Shrine’ and was designed by two-time club president Haig Patigian, who built it during the 1920s. Less than 10 years later, the Owl Shrine is said to play a role in what is called the ‘Cremation of Care’ ceremony that allegedly takes place every year.
The Native Americans also see owls as being the keeper of sacred knowledge, as well as value the bird’s ability to see at night. It is this characteristic of the creature that Native Americans call upon during ceremonies when a vision of secret knowledge is needed.
A Messenger of Secrets
In cultures such as the West Africans and Aboriginal Australians, the owl is viewed as a sort of messenger of secrets that has ties to sorcerer. For some, the bird is believed to serve seers, mystics and those who work with the magical arts.
Linked to Death and the Underworld
The owl also serves as a symbol related to the guardianship of the underworlds, and a protection of the dead, as seen in cultures such as the ancient Egyptians and Celtics.
The Minerval Seals of the Illuminati
When it comes to the Bavarian Order of the Illuminati, owl symbolism played a role with the secret society associated with the Minerval Academy – known as one of the early foundations of the society. There have been medallions and other artistic depictions that have incorporated the owl to represent the Minervals. Only a few examples of such medallions exist (which were worn around the necks of Minerval initiates); the design centered on an owl holding an open book.
A Connection to Magic and the Occult
In western and central Europe, medieval beliefs often associated owls with being a witch or wizard in disguise. Just take a look at the Harry Potter movies – an owl named Hedwig plays a significant role as companion to the title character. The owl was a birthday present and is named by Harry, who picks it after reading a history of magic book. Hedwig delivers messages throughout the series of books/movies. However, in the seventh book, The Deathly Hallows, the owl is killed trying to save the wizard. According to the book’s author, J.K. Rowling, the owl represents Harry Potter’s innocence.
Over the years, this kind of magical association related to the owl has led some to see the bird as the animal soul-spirit linked to a witch/wizard.
So, the next time you see a celebrity with a T-shirt depicting an owl or a musician wearing a gold pendent in the shape of an owl; don’t take for granted that it’s not another sneaky way of showing their support for a secret society or representing the historic or ancient meaning behind owl symbolism.
