The bat is a symbol of the challenge to let go of the old and create the new – death and rebirth. To many this is distressing, thus so much negativity around it. They symbolize the facing of fears – entering the dark on the way to the light.ast vs. West: Symbolism of the Bat. Westerners hold a more negative view of this creature, possibly because of the dual nature of winged and mammal, or because it’s nocturnal. Eastern cultures view the bat as a symbol of wealth, longevity, peace, good health and a good death.