If we want to talk about the symbols that are the part of the human civilization, we must define it first, so that we could understand them, in their individual way.
The symbol is any phenomenon, event, object, or a motive that has such a meaning that is socially or culturally attributed, and it is a communication mechanism used only by humans.
We are the one who can understand what does those symbols mean, and this could also vary from place to place, from one culture to another.
In this sense, we could say that the symbol is the representation that has an extended meaning, for example, the heart is a human organ, but symbolically it represents love. And in the same way, you can take whatever motive from the Universe and give it the symbolical value.
If we look at nature, in the rich world that is filled with life, animals, and plants, all of them could become our symbols and could represent something more, then their biological nature provides.
Today we want to speak of the symbolical meaning of one insect that is loved by many and its existence could be found in the cultures around the world, and it is surprising that in most of them it has a similar meaning.
We are talking of one interesting and, for many, inspirational and even magical creature – the Firefly. Its appearance is amazing – it has such a body that one of his parts, his stomach shines just like a small light bulb. It shows its glory in the summer months, where the Firefly, usually in groups starts its journey.
What does the Firefly mean then, and what is its symbolical value in the world of humans? Read in this piece.
General characteristics of the Firefly
The Firefly belongs to the bee family, and this winged insect is often referred to as light bug because of its ability to attract partners or prey through light. Their light does not have infrared or ultraviolet rays and is called “cold light”. This chemically produced light can be yellow, green or pale red in color.
There are over 2000 species of Fireflies in the world, most commonly found in the tropics. Their bodies are usually brown and soft, and there is no great difference between males and females.
They are nocturnal insects, although there are several species that are active during the day. The Firefly does not come during the day, but they can appear when the day is waking up, or where there is some fog, for example.
It is truly interesting how Firefly does not produce any heat, even if it produces light – some species are known for the special way they shine. Some females do not fly, but only with the help of the lure of a male of the same species, while others use the same tactics to lure potential prey and can be toxic.
The Light signals are very different – some are flashing, others are transmitting permanent light. The signals are typical for each species and vary in length and rhythm. In some species, all individuals of the same species in the environment synchronize their signals, so that entire rows of shrubs or trees flicker at the same rhythm – this is such natural magic that is beyond compare.
The Meaning of the Firefly
In many parts of the world, the meaning of the Firefly is connected to the Light that should shine in times where there is darkness all around us; it is important to show us the way and to make sure that we never stop believing in the magic of the Universe.
In some parts of the world, it is said that the Firefly, as the symbol of Light in the dark moments, could be used for all those who are suffering and who need to find some light in the dark world.
It is called the “thorn of light”, it is a talisman which can be said to be a powerful ally in the fight against darkness – if you believe in its magic, be sure that it not only promises a good and easy path to the places you want to visit, but also makes sure you have a pleasant dream, wake less during the night, and wake up in the morning to sleep and rest.
Since the Firefly has three main traits – it is the insect that appears only at summer, it flies, and it has its distinctive Light, so these symbols are never used separately, that is, they have the power to cause fear in the enemy only when used combined. Some say that Firefly is the symbol that could provide you with additional courage and success in life.
Some say that the symbol of the Firefly was used in some countries when the people could not find its way, and when it was necessary to defend or to find the right path in life.
It was enough to carry them on his chest, or, as a last resort, to throw him in front of his opponent, thus, popularly speaking, to put fear into his bones.
Therefore, it can be rightly said that the symbol of Firefly has the power to block rivals, jeopardize his previously planned action, and thus prevent him from further action (we are talking of any enemy that can come to you, and even your own thought could be the problem or the enemy). It not only represents powerful protection but makes it clear that the person who is following its path is covered with the light/magic.
The Symbolism of the Firefly
The Firefly really is a powerful symbol that, at first glance, stands out from all the other symbols that we could find in nature, and as much as the ladybug is amazing for example, and it is believed that it brings happiness and good luck, there is something truly special in the Firefly.
It does not seem to have a clearly defined form – at times it shines in others, it disappears in the darkness of the warm night, and in this sense, it indicates a combination of the “both worlds”, the dark one and the light one.
There is something mysterious when it comes to these being – some consider this symbol to be effective only if the person knows about it (wearing it in the form of a talisman, meditating on it or holding it under the pillow, it does not have to be the real insect, it can be a amulet, or a drawing, but you have to believe in its powers), while others claim that its power can be directed and to other persons.
The result should be the same in both cases: whoever comes in contact with this symbol can count on a little bit of help from the other world, from which it would be quite difficult to awaken.
Some sources add that the wake-up effect is only achieved when you the Firefly lands on some part of your body, and you should never kill it, or hurt it in any way.
It is interesting to add that the Firefly is mentioned in many legends, stories, or rather, sagas – in some of them it is the representation of some old Gods, usually those that are seen as the protectors of humanism, and the thing that separates them from all others and the aspect that proves that they are magical is the Light in their bodies, that could be easily distinguished, usually when you take them in your hand.
In other stories, the Firefly is connected to the most powerful and defiant female warriors – it is the principle connected to the gods and mothers and warriors alike.
One additional aspect that we must speak of when we are talking about the meaning of the Firefly is the aspect of the Light – it is not something that you will see all the time, it is the Light that is present only when you need it, and it does not last long.
Unlike some other symbols in this group (we are talking about the insects and their symbolical values, there can be butterfly, ladybug, etc.), they have so-called “magic” effect – they cannot camouflage it, it is their main trait, that Light, they cannot make you some other (more powerful) creature, or be some sort of “invisible” shield over your head. To handle them, you must be prepared for action yourself, and the Firefly just shows you the way.
Good or Bad sign
Of course, this is a good sign, since the Firefly is such an amazing sign that speaks of nature, and how everything in the Universe has its meaning and purpose, and how even the smallest things, like a tiny object, could give you the necessary Light and magic in your life. Because it can, it is also one of the amazing symbols of joy and happiness.
In some cultures, it is believed that this is the symbol of children (who love this symbol very much, and they enjoy chasing them in the summer nights, believing that if they catch them, they could make a wish that will come true later).
There is one recommendation that you make an amulet that is connected in some way with the Firefly, and to wear it in the form of a talisman when you feel exhausted and tired and still unable to feel good or happy, for whatever reason that may be relevant for you.
You can also draw it on a piece of paper and keep it under your pillow or near the bed, and ideally, for a few nights in a row, meditate on this symbol to make it even better.
In the beginning, we spoke of how Fireflies are able to produce their light in a synchronous way, and that entire rows of this insect can transmit the same amount of light, in the same rhythm and it is in some way, an amazing dance of nature. In this context, we could see that all beings, along with the human being, could provide the same energy and give their inner light to show the way to others who do not “shine.”
Summary
From all of the above, it is not difficult to conclude that the Firefly as the symbol could be in the symbolical sense an excellent talisman that is primarily reserved for those who lack the courage to face a problem. These symbols will not help you “intimidate” the people around you, but they will make it clear that you too can “show your teeth” and defend what you care about.
Although these are symbols that are not recommended in the form of a tattoo, you can always have with you in the form of amulets, which, remember, must always be combined to fulfill their original purpose.
Some say that Firefly is present in our world, just to show that even these small beings could fight the sticks of terror, symbols traditionally used to intimidate an opponent.
It is truly interesting to look at the light, cause without it, this insect will lose all of its meaning and powers, and the same case is with human beings if we lose our lights, we do not exist as human beings, we are lost in the darkness of the space.
Some say that the Firefly is the symbol of duality, since it belongs to the dark, and without the Light, it is just seen as the “ordinary” insect – as the symbol of duality, of a dual nature that lies within each of us. It sounds almost like some sort of Yin / Yang aspect because it actually teaches us how important it is for both of these forces to co-operate as one unit within ourselves – darkness and Light. And we have spoken how the Firefly could be a fighter, or some kinds produce some toxic material – so even the small insects that seem “harmless” hide something.
Additionally, it shows you the picture of all those hardships of life that are difficult, painful, tiring, but we still don’t have to worry about – there is the Light in some part of the way, you just have to see it.
Perhaps the answer to the question of why not worry lies in the foundation of Firefly, where it’s Light is clearly recognized, symbolizing the perfect combination of knowledge and skill. At the same time, it has the power to alert us when the time is right to act, and she is a great ally in the search for lost things.