Rainbows are often pretty creations and such phenomena that we cannot deny their beauty and mesmerizing wonder. We often see rainbows after rain; even when we know they develop after rain, it remains a nice surprise when we see them. But what does it mean spiritually when we see a rainbow?
Rainbows occur naturally after rain or a shower storm as the sun’s light reflects from the water forming multiple colors. Rainbows are beautiful and represent many things, from love and luck to hope and freedom.
Rainbow Symbolism In Belief And Culture
Christianity
Rainbows have always existed and are often linked to spiritual meaning and interpretations. A Bible scripture quotes God’s promise that He will never destroy the earth with water again and that whenever we see a rainbow, we must remember this promise and His love for us. Genesis 9:11-13 “I establish my covenant with you, that never again shall all flesh be cut off by the waters of the flood, and never again shall there be a flood to destroy the earth.” And God said, “This is the sign of the covenant that I make between me and you and every living creature that is with you, for all future generations: I have set my bow in the cloud, and it shall be a sign of the covenant between me and the earth….”
Native American
Some cultures within the Native American tribes believe that the rainbow is a supernatural serpent, and those who ride it, this person becomes wiser and reaches the Divine through journeying on this colorful serpent. After the journey, the person is said to have more wisdom.
Greek and Roman Mythology
The ancient Greco-Roman culture perceived the rainbow as a manifestation of a deity. The diety was Iris and the daughter of the great gods Electra and Thaumas. It is said that Iris brought messages from the gods to the people of the earth.
Native Aboriginals
The aboriginals also believed the rainbow to be a deity in the form of a snake. The snake was a creator of gods shaped like a bow or an arch in the sky. Sometimes forming a double rainbow which is often a glorious sight to behold.
The symbolic meaning of rainbows in art
Art is all about expression and the freedom to share a story in a creative form. Sometimes artists use mediums like paint or clay to create something. Rainbows are always symbolic of an optimistic experience. It is a symbol of hope in many cases. Rainbows are used in religious pieces and also in fantasy.
Rainbow flag (PRIDE)
Since a rainbow often depicts hope, love, happiness and change, it is very symbolic in the LGBTQ+ community. The rainbow-colored PRIDE flag represents everyone within the community, each color also representing a unique feature.
- Hot pink represents sex
- Red represents life
- Orange is for healing
- Yellow represents the sun
- Green for nature
- Turquoise represents art and creativity
- Indigo is for harmony and peace
- Violet represents spirit
Rainbows Meaning Spiritual Aspects
There are many spiritual meanings to everything in the world. From our dreams and feelings to premonitions and beliefs. The rainbow meaning has always been one that sparked interest because rainbows are so awe-inspiring.
A symbol of hope and promise
A rainbow symbolizes hope and when we see one, we feel a boost in faith and hope for a better outcome or that the situation will work out well. We also have the promise of God’s word never to destroy the world with floods.
A new beginning
Rainbows often appear after rain. This is rainbow bridge is a symbol that after the rain refreshes everything, it’s now time to start new. It may even directly mean that a bright future awaits you.
Equality
A double rainbow is a beautiful symbol of equality. Since the two are directly mirroring each other, it’s perfect as a sign that there is no difference or discrepancy or discrimination, but equality.
Peace and tranquillity
A rainbow comes after heavy rains usually. Seeing a rainbow is a hopeful sign of peace and tranquillity. It is the calm after the storm, a sign of a brighter tomorrow.
Rainbow baby
A rainbow baby is a very special child. They are called this since they were born after their mother’s miscarriage. The rainbow baby brings the parents new hope, even though their beginning feelings may be mixed with fear and anxiety for their unborn child’s wellbeing. Once the rainbow baby is born, there is a sense of renewed hope for those parents.
Famous Rainbow Quotes Established Over Time
- “Try to be the rainbow in someone’s cloud – Maya Angelou
- “Life throws challenges, and every challenge comes with a rainbow and light to conquer it” – Amit Ray
- “If you want to enjoy the rainbow, be prepared to enjoy the storm” – Warren Wendel Wiersbe
- “There’s a rainbow in the sky all the time, don’t be blind” – Ziggy Marley
- “If you have ever followed a rainbow to its end, it leads you to the ground on which you are standing” – Alan Cohen
FAQs
What does a rainbow symbolize?
Rainbows often depict hope, a new beginning and light at the end of a tunnel. If anything, it is a beautiful natural phenomenon that has impacted our lives throughout the years and is always on a positive note.
What is a rainbow personality?
A rainbow personality is often described as spontaneous and sometimes erratic. Seven colors in a rainbow can be iconic to the many personalities or even interesting personas of someone with a rainbow personality. Having a rainbow personality doesn’t mean someone has a personality disorder. It can simply describe their colorful and electrifying energy.
How many colors are actually in a rainbow?
There are seven colors within a rainbow. Adding the double rainbows and other light reflections, you may have more.
Conclusion
Rainbows are not only wonderful for children when they see them, but adults worldwide are also mesmerized by nature and wonder what a rainbow is. Rainbows make wonderful themes at parties whether it’s a Pride party or a kid’s party. It symbolizes freedom and the hope that anyone, regardless of age or beliefs, can enjoy.
