A. Venefica’s Weblog: Symbolic Meanings

A regular reader of one of my websites was curious about the symbolic meaning of peacocks, to which I reply:

Dear Plucky, 

In general, the Peacock is representative of glory, immortality, royalty, and incorruptibility. It is a possessor of some of the most admired human characteristics, and is a symbol of integrity and the beauty that can be achieved when we endeavor to better ourselves and better our lives.

In history, myth, legend & lore, the peacock is considered an emblem of protection, nobility, watchfulness, guiddance, and holiness.

In Greco-Roman mythology the Peacock is identified with Hera (Juno) who created the peacock from Argus whose hundred eyes (seen on the tail feathers of the peacock) symbolize the vault of heaven and the “eyes” of the stars.

In Christianity the peacock represents the “all-seeing” church and the holiness & sancitiy associated with it.  Additionally, the peacock reprsents resurrection, renewal and immortality within the spiritual  teachings of Christianity.

In Hinduism the peacock is associated with Lakshmi who is a deity representing benevolence, patience, kindness, compassion and luck.

Similar to Lakshmi, the peacock is associated with Kwan-yin in Japan - she is also an emblem of love, compassionate watchfulness, good-will, nurturing, and kind-heartedness.  Kwan-yin chose to remain a mortal even though she could be immortal because she wished to stay behind and aid humanity in their spiritual evolution.

In Babylonia and Persia the peacock is seen as a guardian to royalty, and is often seen in engravings upon the thrones of royalty.

I trust this information on the symbolic meaning of peacocks helps you on your path.