Dragonfly

Dragonflies have been on the earth for 300 million years. That’s over 50 million years before dinosaurs existed! The Dragonfly has a special meaning for many people.

The dragonfly is a symbol of transformation, spiritual growth, opportunity, ancient wisdom, spiritual connection, protection, prosperity, joy, rebirth, good luck and fertility. Its cultural significance varies across cultures, but it is often associated with the natural world, spirituality, and the ability to adapt to change.

Indigenous American culture was deeply intertwined from the natural world. Each part of Nature had a special significance. Dragonflies were considered to be species of sacred birds rather than insects) and one of the mysterious elements of creation. Pictures of dragonflies were often painted onto people and horses, or sewn as beadwork on clothing. This was thought to summon the dragonfly’s power of protection.

In Japanese culture, the dragonfly is a significant and national symbol representing various aspects of Japanese values and traditions. The dragonfly is known as “tombo” or “akitsu,” and it has been an important part of Japanese folklore and art for centuries. The dragonfly has played a significant role in Japanese culture for centuries, appearing in various forms of art, literature, and folklore. In ancient times, Japan was often referred to as “Akitsushima,” or “Dragonfly Island,” due to the abundance of dragonflies in the country’s rice paddies. Japanese parents have viewed the dragonfly as a protector for their children. If dragonflies were present, you did not necessarily need mosquito netting to prevent your child from being bitten. Dragonflies would eat the mosquitoes that could make your child sick.

The dragonfly has also been a popular subject in Japanese art, appearing in traditional forms such as haiku poetry and ukiyo-e woodblock prints. In modern times, the dragonfly has continued to be a popular symbol in Japanese culture, appearing in various forms of art and design. The Japanese Samurai honored the dragonfly in many ways. In the 17th century, high raking Japanese lords used dragonfly shaped helmets so they could be easily identified on the battlefield. The dragonfly image was often emblazoned on the hilts of swords, breastplates and arrow quivers. Because dragonflies were thought to be fearless, swift and courageous, they were believed to bring soldiers strength and protection.

The dragonfly was known as the "victory insect" because it would quickly advance towards its target and efficiently kill a pest (e.g. mosquitos and horseflies) without hesitation or retreat. In a Japanese legend, an emperor had a horsefly bite him on the arm while out hunting. Before the horsefly could bite him again, a dragonfly swooped down and ate the offending insect. The emperor was so impressed by the dragonfly that he named the region he was in Akitsu-no or Dragonfly Plain.

In Hindu culture, dragonflies are believed to symbolize love, growth, new development, and adaptability. They are also associated with the cycle of life and death.