What do the symbols on a totem pole represent?

A totem pole typically features symbolic and stylized human, animal, and supernatural forms. Totem poles are primarily visual representations of kinship, depicting family crests and clan membership. Totem poles can also be created to honour a particular event or important person.

What does the order of a totem pole mean?

A “low man on the totem pole” is a person of no status or power, someone at the bottom of a hierarchy. It’s the same as saying someone is “low on the pecking order” (a poultry analogy) or “the lowest rung of the ladder” (a, well, ladder analogy).

What does the frog mean on a totem pole?

On totem poles it occupies the bottom with its legs stretched out to symbolize stability. On Haida house posts, Frog is depicted to lend structural stability. Frogs also represent wealth, abundance, ancient wisdom, rebirth, and good luck. As such, the Frog symbol plays an important part in Northwest coast cultures.

Is it better to be higher or lower on a totem pole?

According to Canadian naturalist, Pat Kramer—an expert on First Nations culture—the lowest figures on the totem pole are often considered the most prestigious. The higher up the figure is on a totem pole, the more representational they are.

What is at the bottom of a totem pole?

Meaning: If someone is at the bottom of the totem pole, they are unimportant. Opposite is at the top of the totem pole.

What does the eagle mean on a totem pole?

MAJOR SYMBOLS OR TOTEM FIGURES EAGLE. The majestic Eagle is strength and vision. The Eagle symbolizes power and prestige. It protects the spirit and the body, representing health and wholeness of being. It signifies the person who rises above the petty details of daily life to take in the big picture.

Is it OK to say low on the totem pole?

Instead: Chat, brief conversation, quick talk, brainstorm. The term “low man on the totem pole,” when used as an idiom to describe a person of low rank, inaccurately trivializes the tradition and meaning of the totem poles, which do not have a hierarchy of carvings based on physical position.