Symbols of the Fox in Different cultures
By Isabella Hu
Foxes live on every continent except Antarctica, and they possess a remarkable adaptability and can thrive in both woods and city streets. The most common and widespread species of fox is the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) with about 47 recognized subspecies, which is also usually seen in the UK. We’ve also discussed the red fox in the past. If you’d like to learn more, you’re more than welcome to click the link to read further! https://www.johnmooremuseum.org/red-fox-vulpes-vulpes/
The fox appears in many cultures, often depicted in folklore as embodying cleverness, cunning, or trickery. But what spiritual meanings do foxes represent? Let’s take a look together!
In Western and Persian folklore, foxes are symbols of cunning and trickery due to their ability to evade hunters. Foxes are common character in British folklore as well, they are portrayed as clever deceivers to overcome their enemies, or even the most experienced hunters. The red fox has long been connected with magic and trickery, making it a popular subject in legends, myths, and fairy tales.
One of the well-known story is called “moonlit fox”. The legend says that foxes will dance and frolic in the moonlight when the moon is full! This image has shaped the imaginations of generations of storytellers and poets, who have used it to convey the magic and mystery of the natural world.
The phrase “as sly as a fox” has become a popular expression to describe someone who is clever.
Foxes also have positive image in Japanese culture. In Japanese folklore, foxes are often depicted as highly intelligent and long-lived creatures. These admirable qualities make foxes a favored subject in traditional art, especially in “ukiyo-e” (woodblock prints from the Edo period).
“Kitsune” might be a more common name for foxes in Japan, they are foxes that possess paranormal abilities that increase as they get older and wiser. In Japanese mythology, Kitsune are depicted with five different colors (red, black, silver, gold and white) with which one of them its own meaning. According to ancient legends, the gods in Japanese religion often choose an animal as their avatar or messenger. The god Inari is represented by a white fox. According to Martin(2024), good kitsune are often thought to be associated with the protector god of rice cultivation(deity Inari), and is said to further prosperity and therefore is worshiped by merchants and farmers. That’s why Inari shrines usually have small fox statues, which serve as the shrine’s guardians.
Symbolizing good fortune, kitsune are often found in temples, as they signal a successful harvest upcoming.
However, the symbol of foxes are not always positive. In Chinese culture, foxes are also seen as cunning and crafty. One of the cases is called the nine-tailed fox, which originally appeared as a divine creature. It had extraordinary powers and could threaten enemies to protect its people. Well, by the Song dynasty (around the 11th to 13th centuries), the image of the nine-tailed fox began to shift toward one of seduction and deception.
Over time, this negative image became more fixed, and folklore spread the idea that the nine-tailed fox would take on various forms to seduce and deceive. Because of this, foxes became associated with cunning and eventually became linked with the image of a temptress. Even today, people sometimes use the term “huli jing” (fox spirit) to refer to women who interfere in others’ relationships.
The image of nine-tailed fox in an ancient Chinese book.
Different factors may influence the way people view animals over time. For instance, the main character, Nick, in the movie Zootopia has a positive, clever, and brave image, which earns people’s affection! Do you know any other symbolic meanings of foxes? Or what do foxes mean to you? Let us know in the comments!
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