For sailors swallows hold a lot of symbolic significance; in addition to symbolizing the completion of 5000 miles sailed, swallows are associated with balanced return. The “return” symbolism is two fold. First, the birds are famous for their migration patterns, always returning home to San Juan Capistrano every year. So, like a nautical star, a swallow is supposed to guide you safely back home. Second, it is believed that if a sailor dies at sea then the birds will carry his soul home to heaven. This interpretation represents a more spiritual type return but is nonetheless comforting for a sailor facing battle. It also echos the cyclic nature of life.
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