Black cats are pretty famous! In fact, black cats are so famous that they even have two holidays – National Black Cat Day on October 27th and Black Cat Appreciation Day on August 17th. You’d be pretty hard pressed to find another cat color with two special days dedicated to them. And, it’s only logical! After all, pretty much every culture in the world has superstitions and beliefs surrounding black cats. You’ve probably even heard a few yourself. So, it’s only natural that you’re wondering what’s the symbolism and spiritual meaning of a black cat? What does it mean when one crosses my path? What if it’s on a full moon? Am I destined to have bad luck?!
First of all, there’s nothing to worry about! There’s lots of myths surrounding the meaning of a black cat. A black cat isn’t inherently bad luck or evil. In fact, in some parts of Europe like Ireland and England, black cats are actually thought to be good luck that bring good fortune! Actually, throughout a lot of ancient times black cats were considered a good omen. And, that makes sense because from a spiritual perspective, black is a very powerful color that represents protection and transformation.
Honestly, it’s about time to clarify a lot of the beliefs surrounding the spiritual meaning of black cats! It’s time for the best spiritual meaning of black cats guide on the internet! So, grab a drink, sit back, and get comfortable. By the time you’re finished reading this article, you’ll have a new understanding and deep appreciation for black cats. And, more importantly you’ll know the true black cat meaning from a spiritual perspective!
A Little Bit Of History About The Black Cat
Before we get started, let’s talk about the history of black cats so we can better understand the cause of the beliefs surrounding them. In ancient Egypt, we’re talking 2800 BC or so, the Egyptians worshipped a cat goddess named Bastet, or sometimes Bast, who was often depicted as a black cat. She was known as the goddess of fertility, pregnancy, and childbirth.
In ancient Greece, Hecate who was the goddess of magic, witchcraft, sorcery, and the moon, was said to have a cat as a familiar. However, in the early middle ages the black cat was still seen as good luck mostly by sailors for their ability to predict the weather and capture rats. But, eventually in the 13th century when Pope Gregory IX issued a declaration that black cats were an incarnation of the devil. Which is interesting to note, that the Bible makes no mention of domestic cats at all. Still, by this point black cats became associated with witchcraft and pagan practitioners and in direct opposition of the church and all things holy. We’ll discuss the history of witchcraft and black cats more in depth later on in this article.
Either way, the history of the black cat is rich and colorful and is honestly too much to entirely cover in this article. The superstitions surrounding black cats continued on in Puritanical colonies in the United States with the witch hunts. Which explains why still in most of North America black cats are thought to be bad luck. However, not everything that seems true actually is.
What Does A Black Cat Symbolize Spiritually?
Okay, so now that we know a little bit of background around the black cat, it’s time to get into the heart of the matter. What does a black cat represent spiritually? First, it helps to understand what cats in general represent. Cats are often thought of guardians of the spirit world. They have an association with protection, following intuition and spiritual guidance, and independence. After all, everyone knows you can’t tell a cat what to do! Cats also represent balance, since they are usually sure-footed and always seem to land on their feet no matter what life throws at them.
So, now we need to look at the color black. Black also represents the spiritual world. It is a color of protection, intuition, and the unknown. Who knows what goes bump in the night when you can’t see? From a spiritual perspective, black is believed to absorb negative energy and entities. As a result, a black cat symbolizes the spiritual side of life, the unknowable, and divine protection. Black cats also represent grace, curiosity, and magic.
That’s a pretty significant symbolism! It’s easy to understand why some people might be intimidated by the power of the black cat. Especially those who seek to control others or the unknown forces of the universe. But, for those who embrace the divine, intuition, and personal power, the black cat is an animal worth respecting, befriending, and holding in very high regard.
The Black Cat Spirit Animal
Do you feel as if the black cat is your spirit animal? Well, you’d be in very good company over the years. Many people who walk an unconventional spiritual path often have an attraction to the black cat. There’s a reason why black cats are probably the most famous of all familiars! But, it’s important to remember the role of a spirit animal is to teach you to how to overcome any possible challenges along your spiritual journey.
So, what can the black cat help you learn? A black cat reminds you to stand firmly in and embrace your own magical power. A black cat is the true definition of a spirit power animal. Remember who you are from a spiritual standpoint. You’re not a human being having a spiritual experience, but a spiritual being having a human experience. Don’t allow people who don’t understand that to dictate your worth. Much like the black cat who has a bad reputation simply because of a lack of understanding, don’t allow others who simply don’t understand tell you how to navigate your own personal spiritual journey.
Is A Black Cat A Good Omen Or A Bad Omen?
Alright, we know by now all about black cat symbolism. However, it can be a little confusing. So, let’s get directly to the point. Are black cats a good omen? Are black cats bad luck? Which is it!? Well, the answer is – it depends. If you believe that a black cat crossing your path is bad luck, then you will possibly subconsciously bring bad luck into your life. So, it really depends on where you are from, your beliefs, and how much credence you put in folklore.
From a spiritual standpoint entirely, a black cat is actually a fantastic omen. Since a black cat is a guardian that protects you on the spiritual realm and absorbs all negative energies, a black cat is a sign of incoming good luck and prosperity. It’s a sure sign that you are receiving help from the other side. And, you certainly can’t go wrong with that!
On the other hand, if you believe that black cats are harbingers of evil who look to collect souls and wreck havoc, then you may overlook that message and those blessings. Ultimately, it is entirely up to you. You create your own luck. So, definitely try to take some time to think about the black cat and why you feel as you do about it. You may be surprised by where your beliefs came from. Are there any other limiting beliefs you have you might need to let go of as well? Really makes you think, doesn’t it? The black cat is a fantastic spiritual messenger like that!
What Does It Mean When A Black Cat Crosses Your Path?
Probably one of the most popular superstitions in North America is that it’s bad luck for a black cat to cross your path. But, it’s not just America. In some parts of the world, it’s actually believed that it’s an omen of impending potential death. Yikes, that’s pretty bad!
Well, take it easy, in the overwhelming majority of cases, nobody is going to die. After all, I’ve had countless black cats cross my path personally and have yet to have experience death personally. Or, even near me after such encounters. And, depending on what part of the world you’re from, a black cat crossing your path can actually be a really good sign! For instance, in the United Kingdom it’s thought to be a sign of incoming abundance if one crosses your path. Especially if it’s on the way to a job interview!
So, what’s the spiritual meaning of a black cat crossing your path? Well, a black cat crossing your path reminds you to stay in touch with your intuition. And, trust that you are on the right path in life! A path is symbolic of our journey through life, and black cats are messengers of protection from the divine. Therefore, a black cat crossing your path is a powerful message that you are spiritually on the right path. So, even if you currently feel lost in life, know that everything is working out for you behind the scenes. It’s all part of the process.
What Does It Mean If A Black Cat Runs In Front Of You From Right To Left?
Did you know in some areas of Germany they say it’s bad luck if a black cat crosses your path from the right to the left? That’s a pretty specific superstition! So, is there any spiritual meaning behind which direction a black cat crosses your path?
Well, believe it or not, there could be! For instance, when practicing witchcraft, it’s believed that moving items clockwise brings them towards you. On the other hand, things that are moving counter-clockwise are going away from you! So, in the case of a black cat running from the right to the left, it is moving clockwise like the hands on a clock. Therefore, the symbolism of a black cat is coming into your life very soon. So, when a cat runs in front of you from right to left, you might expect a new sense of wonder and magic to come into your life very soon.
However, if you see a black cat moving left to right it is moving counter-clockwise, so it is going away from you. Of course, whether this is good omen or not depends entirely on what you believe about black cats. If it’s bad luck and moving away from you, that’s definitely a good sign that disaster has been missed! However, if you believe black cats are spiritual protectors and bring good luck, one going away from you might have the opposite meaning.
What If A Black Cat Crosses In Front Of You While Driving?
Are you wondering what’s the spiritual meaning of a black cat running in front of you while driving? I’ve even read stories that in some parts of the world if a black cat runs across the road, then cars will desperately pull off to the side so as not to have the cat walk directly in front of them. That sounds pretty dangerous and liable to bring bad luck alone. So, what does it mean when a black cat crosses the road in front of you?
Well, it simply means it’s trying to get to the other side. Just kidding! Although many think this is a negative omen, it’s actually a pretty positive one to have a cat cross the road in front of you. A black cat is a symbol of spiritual protection. And from a spiritual perspective, driving and the road represents our life’s journey. So, when a black cat crosses in front of you while driving, know that you are on the right path in life and you are divinely protected.
At times in life it’s easy to not know where we’re heading. Sometimes we feel lost or that everything is out of our control. Know that while every stop along the journey might not make sense at the time, you are heading towards a beautiful destination. Try not to worry too much! Stay present and trust in the divine. When a black cat crosses in front of you, it’s a sign that you’re on the right path and good luck is sure to come.
Spiritual Meaning Of A Black Cat At Your House
Have you seen a black cat hanging around your house? Maybe you step outside to find a black cat sitting on your porch. That’s definitely one way to start the day! So, what does it mean when you see a black cat at your house?
Seeing a black cat at your house means your home is blessed and good luck is on the way. Of course, as always, it really depends on your culture and your own beliefs as it varies around the world. But generally, the black cat is a very positive omen to see at your home. For instance, in areas of Scotland a strange black cat appearing at your house is a sign of incoming prosperity or money. In ancient Egypt, black cats were considered sacred in the home and offered protection from disease.
However, it is worth nothing that in Celtic mythology, a black cat is sometimes interchangeable with cat-sìth, a known trickster who is said to cause all sorts of ruckus around the home. This may be the cause of some of the superstitions around a black cat visitation. Still, it may be worth taking note if you feel there’s mischievous energy around your new black cat visitor.
For example, during Samhain, or the day after Halloween, it was said that if one didn’t leave milk out for him in a saucer, their cow’s udders would go dry. It was even believed that the recently departed had to be kept under a watchful eye or he would steal their soul. But, it’s worth noting that cat-sith is a black cat with a white spot on his chest, much like the Kellas cat, a larger wild cat that’s native to Scotland. So, try not to worry too much about a friendly black cat just saying hello!
Black Cats And Witchcraft
Can you think of a more iconic scene than a witch riding a broom in the moonlight with a black cat by her side? Where did the symbolism of witches, Halloween, and black cats even come from?
As we covered previously, most of this superstition goes back to the middle ages and the witch hunts. The church wanted to put an end to those who practiced witchcraft and paganism. A lot of these people were women who simply didn’t conform to expectations of the time. And, guess what? Black cats have an association with femininity too! Sadly, they’ve been unfairly persecuted, the same as women, over the centuries.
In some parts of the world black cats are still thought of as demons connected with Satan and devil worshipping. Since cats are nocturnal, some even say that they are shapeshifters who sneak around at night and do a witch’s bidding. In fact, some shelters won’t re-home black cats around October for fear of sacrifices or people cruelly using them as a prop in costumes. That’s pretty awful for the black cat!
Still, black cats are probably the quintessential familiar for a witch. And, that’s because black cats are the perfect guardians for the spiritual world. They reflect back any negative energy and bring positive energy into the environment. Black cats are mystical, magical, elegant, and mysterious. So, they’re the perfect counterpart for those people who are spiritually aware and are looking for a companion. If you are into practicing witchcraft, or just want to bring a little mystery into your life, you may want to consider adopting a black cat. Make sure to keep reading to find out the spiritual meaning of owning a black cat. It’s actually very good luck!
What’s The Spiritual Meaning Of Owning A Black Cat?
Are you wondering what’s the spiritual meaning of having a black cat as a pet? Apart from being awesome because black cats are notoriously the least likely cat color to be adopted and they are sadly the most common color to be abandoned. And, that’s a shame because black cats are pretty cool. I mean they match everything. You don’t even have to coordinate outfit choices or throw pillows! Well, maybe except white. So, what other blessings can you expect from the black cat apart from black fur in your home?
Did you know that according to folklore – owning a black cat could mean that you’ll have a lot of suitors? This is especially true if the owner is a female! After all, black cats have an association with femininity. So, ladies if you’re single and looking to expand your dating pool, a black cat as a pet couldn’t hurt.
Or, if you’re a borderline hermit crone like me, owning a black cat offers your home and family a spiritual guardian. Black cats reflect bad energy back to the their sources and raise the vibration of the home. A black cat has the similar energetic impact of using black crystals or stones in your house for protection. Some people even believe they reflect curses back to those who wish ill upon you. You really can’t go wrong with owning a black cat, and since so many of them need homes, you’ll be doing them a favor as well.
What’s The Spiritual Meaning Of A Black Cat Staring At You?
A black cat staring at you is a somewhat unsettling experience. And from a spiritual perspective, it’s meant to be. A black cat staring at you is a message from the spiritual realm to listen to your own intuition. Are you truly in touch with the divine and all things unknown? You may want to take some time to sit still and meditate to really get in touch with this side of yourself.
In some cultures, cats are thought to be actual vessels for departed loved ones. That’s only logical since cats have such a strong association with the spiritual realms. And, especially black cats! While this isn’t always the case in every encounter, if you feel as if someone you know on the other side may be visiting you through a black cat, it is entirely possible. Know that the black cat is a powerful spiritual protector and you are never alone on your journey through life. Even if you may feel like it during difficult times. Rely on your spiritual guides to help you and guide you through it.
Also, it’s important to note that a cat staring at you allows you to see the color of their eyes very clearly. So, make sure to pay attention to any additional messages there.
Spiritual Meaning Of Black Cats And Eye Color
What does a black cat with green eyes mean? Probably one of the most common color combinations, but also the luckiest. A black cat with green eyes is a reminder to get in touch with your heart chakra. In other words, you need to examine how things are going in the realms of love and finances.
What does a black cat with yellow eyes mean? A black cat with amber or yellow eyes asks you to examine how you relate to your sacral chakra and solar plexus chakra. A lighter or brighter color yellow means that you should focus on being more creative and standing in your own personal power. Darker colored amber eyes may represent the need to look at how you relate to food, sex, and passion. Are you feeling bored? Make sure to check out our guide on how to balance the sacral chakra.
What does a black cat with blue eyes mean? It’s incredibly rare to see a black cat with blue eyes. That’s because of how genetics work in felines, so when you encounter one, it is definitely a message worth paying attention to! This has a connection with the throat chakra. You need to look at how you communicate. Do you need to speak up on an important issue? Try to be honest with yourself.
How about other eye colors or a combination of different color eyes? Have you seen a black cat with two different colored eyes? Make sure to check the meaning of both colors individually. However, this encounter mostly speaks to the need to embrace your individuality. Don’t be afraid to stand out, you are naturally who you are. Embrace it.
What Do Black Cats Actually Symbolize?
Okay, I understand this is a long article with a lot to take in. There’s all sorts of conflicting viewpoints and superstitions depending on what part of the world you’re from. So, here’s a quick summary of what a black cat symbolizes strictly from a spiritual perspective.
- Abundance and prosperity. Black cats have a link with abundance dating all the way back to ancient Egypt and Bastet who was the goddess of fertility and protection. Know that abundance is on the way when you see a black cat.
- Good fortune and luck. Ever hear the expression that a cat has nine lives? That’s because cats are incredibly lucky at escaping threatening situations. And, black cats are even luckier since they’re more challenging to see. So, a black cat is truly a symbol of good luck.
- Femininity and grace. Black and darkness also has an association to femininity as seen in the yin part of the yin and yang. And, cats are of course very graceful – they always land on their feet! So, black cats have a strong connection to femininity and grace. Try to embrace these qualities, regardless of your gender.
- Spiritual protection. The color black reflects negative energy and spirits. Since cats are known to be guides of the spiritual realm, black cats symbolize spiritual protection. Know that you are being protected by those on the other side.
- Mystery and the unknown. A black cat can quickly and quietly sneak up on you if you aren’t paying attention. They are masters of stealth. Because of this they represent all things mysterious and unknown that sneak around us in life.
Dream Meaning Of A Black Cat
Are you wondering what it means when you dream of a black cat? As always, when trying to understand a dream, it’s important to pay attention to how you feel during the dream. For instance, happily dreaming of petting a black cat as a positive experience will have a different meaning than if you dream of one and you are afraid.
In general, if you feel negatively or are afraid of a black cat in a dream, you may be fearful of some aspect of yourself or those around. Remember, the black cat symbolizes things that are unknown or the spiritual realm. So, if you are afraid of someone betraying you somehow, then you may dream of a black cat. If you dream of a black cat and feel positive about it, you can expect unknown blessings and surprises to enter your waking life soon.
Make sure to pay attention to what the cat was doing in the dream as well. There’s always additional meanings and symbolism there, make sure to check the symbolism already mentioned in this article. Still, here’s a few more common dream meanings.
If you dream of a black cat eating, pay attention to emotions that you may be suppressing somehow and where are you spending your resources. Are you worrying about things that aren’t there?
A black cat sleeping symbolizes that you are at peace with the unknown. And you should be, you are being protected by the divine when you have dreams about a black cat.
Dreaming of a black cat meowing represents that something will soon come to light that you may not be expecting. It could possibly represent that betrayal by a friend will soon become apparent. You can expect communication of some sort either way.