Rain is a natural process that holds many different emotions and forms the basis of many legends, but its main symbolic meanings are rebirth, sadness or cleansing. To a tribe of Native Americans, Aborigines or Massai, rain is a very powerful symbol, as there is/was not much of it around America, Australia or Africa. Rain is vital for life, as it provides water to nourish humans, animals and crops. Therefore, in cultures where not much rain existed, rain symbolically meant life and re-birth. Rain was a literal joy, as it meant life would be extended as the tribe would have fresh water to drink, their animals likewise and the crops would have chance to grow, giving them food. The tribes would therefore, rejoice at the rain, as it has both the symbolic and literal life-giving meaning. Emotionally, it also depends on the situation. In a modern urban society, rain is often seen as an irritant or hindrance. It stops or spoils sport games and outdoor activities. It darkens the sky and makes the sun disappear, so emotionally, rain symbolises darkness, depression, misery and frustration. This is why, many films have rain during a scene where negative emotions are expressed, so as to symbolise tears, sadness and frustration. However, rain can also symbolise cleansing. Walks through the rain are not medically advised, but often it seems that walking through rain when one is sad or pensive can help clear one's mind and help sorrows (symbolically) be washed away. This catharsis occurs often, because, firstly you feel a literal welcoming cooling on your body, but also a metaphorical washing away of problems, as well as a feeling of hitting rock bottom, a feeling which can inspire people to rise up again. This once again, re-confirms the symbolic meaning of re-birth in rain.
