Counting Crows: The Rhyme and Its Meanings

The rhyme about crows, often referred to as a “counting rhyme,” is believed to originate from the 16th to 18th century in England. It’s part of a broader tradition of superstitious counting rhymes, which were used to interpret omens based on the appearance of birds. Crows and magpies, in particular, were seen as mysterious and otherworldly creatures tied to luck, fate, and even death.

The exact origin is unclear, but such rhymes became popular in oral traditions, often varying by region. Their use is frequently connected to augury (the practice of interpreting omens), as crows and magpies were thought to be messengers of the divine or the supernatural. These beliefs were deeply embedded in folklore and reinforced by their frequent appearance in rural daily life.

What Does the Counting Crows Rhyme Mean?

ONE for sorrow
Bad luck, sadness, or grief approaching.

TWO for joy
Happiness, good news, or celebration.

THREE for a girl
Feminine energy, creativity, or the arrival of a daughter.

FOUR for a boy
Masculine energy, strength, or the birth of a son.

FIVE for silver
Wealth, prosperity, or a valuable gain.

SIX for gold
Great fortune, success, or something priceless.

SEVEN for a secret, never to be told
Something hidden, mysterious, or confidential.

EIGHT for a wish
Hopes and dreams, or the opportunity to manifest desires.

NINE for a kiss
Love, romance, or the start of a meaningful connection.

TEN for a bird you must not miss
An opportunity you must seize—don’t let it slip away!

ELEVEN for health
Well-being, vitality, or physical and mental balance.

TWELVE for wealth
Financial abundance, success, or a major reward.

THIRTEEN beware, it’s the devil’s share
A warning of danger, misfortune, or a difficult challenge ahead.

The Symbolism of Crows in Myths and Beliefs

Crows have fascinated cultures and belief systems across the globe, often representing a mix of mystery, wisdom, and connection to the spiritual realm. Here are interpretations tied specifically to crows:

• Celtic Mythology: Crows were associated with the goddess Morrigan, a deity of war and fate. She often appeared in the form of a crow, symbolizing prophecy, protection, and the influence of destiny, particularly on the battlefield.
• Germanic Traditions: Crows were considered messengers from the gods. They were revered as sacred and seen as symbols of wisdom, with their behavior interpreted as omens.
• Slavic Folklore: In Slavic traditions, crows were linked to death and the afterlife. They were believed to guide souls and were sometimes seen as allies of witches, conveying messages or protecting them.
• Wicca and Modern Paganism: Crows represent wisdom, mystery, and connection to the spiritual realm. They are often invoked in rituals as guides, protectors, or symbols of transformation during meditation and ceremonies.
• Siberian Shamanism: Crows were regarded as spirit animals for shamans, believed to aid them in journeying to the spiritual world and bringing back knowledge for their community.
• Native American Traditions: Many Indigenous tribes see crows as messengers between the earthly and spiritual worlds. They are often viewed as bearers of wisdom and transformation, with roles varying from tribe to tribe—sometimes tricksters, other times protectors or bringers of prophecy.
• Hindu Beliefs: Crows hold sacred importance in Hindu rituals, especially during Shradh ceremonies. In these traditions, crows are seen as carriers of messages from ancestors, and feeding them is a way of honoring one’s lineage and seeking blessings.
• Celtic Mythology: In Celtic lore, crows are linked with war and prophecy. They are associated with the goddess Morrigan, who can transform into a crow. She is often seen as a symbol of fate and a protector of warriors.
• Japanese Folklore: In Japanese culture, crows (or “karasu”) are considered divine messengers. The three-legged crow, Yatagarasu, is a symbol of guidance and divine intervention, often appearing in myths as a celestial guide.
• Christianity: In Christian traditions, crows sometimes symbolize sin and repentance due to their association with scavenging. However, they can also represent God’s providence, as seen in biblical tales where they are sent to feed prophets, such as Elijah in the wilderness.
• Modern Interpretations: Crows today are frequently admired for their intelligence and adaptability. While they retain their link to the mysterious and the supernatural, they are also seen as symbols of resilience, resourcefulness, and even community, given their social behavior.