Eagles are, in essence, the kings of the birds of prey; they are the largest and are ably to fly the highest (via Wild Birds). As such, they are associated with the divine, resilience, rebirth, and new beginnings. They are also associated with leadership, honesty, and wisely-wielded power.
Native American cultures also covet eagles as positive and important signs. For them, both the golden and bald eagles were sacred as they fly the highest, making them the closest to heaven and to the divine creator. They also believed that eagles were responsible for delivering prayers of the people directly to the creator, making them spiritual messengers of the highest order. Holding an eagle feather while taking part in prayer was sometimes done to represent this connection.
The eagle is also essential in Christian symbolism, especially in The Old Testament (which means it is significant to Jewish people as well). One passage likening eagles to the divine in The Bible says that God treats his people as an eagle treats its young: "As an eagle stirreth up her nest, flutters over her young, spreads abroad her wings, taketh them, beareth them on her wings" (via Wild Birds). So if you are dealing with difficult times and see an eagle while you are out for a hike or taking a drive, take heed; things may just be improving for you a short way down the road.
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