Butterfly Symbolism / Butterfly Folklore The Butterfly is a symbol of change, joy, and color. (There is also an
association of Faerie folklore with butterflies.) Their flight appears as
dancing, and a reminder not to take things so seriously. They have a sense
of lightness and joy, and are excellent reminders to get up and move!
The butterfly is also a powerful symbol for transformation. It leaves the
safety of the cocoon in it's new form. This is an excellent image for anyone
contemplating, or in the midst of a major change. A butterfly is a strong
symbol of metamorphosis, with distinct stages. The butterfly is a reminder
to make changes when the opportunity arises. Change and transformation are
inevitable for us all, but it does not have to be traumatic.Butterfly symbolism
is also closely tied to the idea of spirits and souls. It has been used
in many religions and cultures. Psyche is the Greek word for both soul and
butterfly. The belief was that butterflies were human souls searching for
a new reincarnation, which gave the creature uncanny and sometimes ominous
connotations. This symbolism was also used in early Christianity as a symbol
of the soul. Celts thought that women became pregnant by swallowing butterfly
souls. These butterfly-souls flew about seeking a new mother. Other cultures
believed that spirits of the dead took the form of white butterflies. In
northern Europe to see one flying at night was a warning of death, and some
said that the soul-butterfly's ability to leave the body in sleep accounts
for dreams.
Pentacle Symbolism The Pentacle or Pentagram is a 5 pointed star
that is often, but not always, encircled with the circle of Unity. It represents
the domination of Spirit or Divine Will over base matter, and the elements
of Spirit, Earth, Water, Fire, and Air. The pentacle has been a symbol of
protection and spiritual growth for millennia. At its points are the stages
of Life: birth, initiation, consummation, repose, and death, with the circle
bringing us back to birth in the cycle of reincarnation.