What is the symbolism and spiritual significance of being the first to acheive or attain something...like firs?

In our times this means high ambitions, leadership and financial benefits. But formerly, when the first one was a insane enthusiast or great hero, being the first has meant deadly risk, a lot of dangerous obstacles and (in lucky cases) a huge glory - postmortal glory. The first one always catches the first strike; and the first strike is widely known to be often mortal. But the first one shows others how to reach the aim. Compare: "the first man" (for a young woman), "the first teacher" (for a pupil). Or (the example from Russian): "the first scoundrel" (he is an outstanding scoundrel among others, therefore is the most nasty for good people).