Interpretation of rat symbolism
Rats have been seen as symbols in various cultures throughout history, and the symbolism can vary widely depending on the context. Some common symbolic meanings of rats include:
Prosperity and wealth: Rats were often associated with good luck and prosperity in ancient Chinese culture, and were sometimes kept as pets to attract wealth.
Intelligence and adaptability: Rats are known for their intelligence and ability to adapt to their environment, which has led to them being seen as symbols of resourcefulness and adaptability.
Deception and treachery: Rats are also commonly associated with deceit and treachery, as they are often viewed as sneaky and manipulative animals.
Disease and death: Rats were often seen as carriers of disease and death in the Middle Ages, which led to them being associated with negative connotations.
Creativity and imagination: Rats are also seen as symbols of creativity, imagination and intuition in some cultures and belief systems.
New beginnings: Rats are known for their ability to thrive in adverse conditions, which makes them a symbol of resilience and new beginnings.
It's also worth noting that the symbolism can change depending on the species of rat, for example black rat is often associated with negative things like disease and destruction, and white rat is associated with positive things like purity and good fortune.