Celtic Turtle Symbology
Contest Winner: Tell Us What the Turtle Means To You
Celtic Turtle Symbology
In Celtic history and lore the turtle is known as the keeper to the doors of the faerie realm. Turtles sense vibrations through water and through their skin and shell, they are amazing survivors; with very good hearing and sense of smell. From "Animal Speak" by Ted Andrews, "If turtle has shown up, it is time to get connected to your most primal essence. Go within your shell and come out when your ideas are ready to be expressed. It is time to recognize that there is an abundance out there for you." In the modern story of the tortoise and the hare, the turtle represents patience, tenacity, and longevity. The turtle uses its hard exterior shell as a means to carry the troubles of the world on its back, as well as to protect itself from harm. The turtle is an earth wanderer, grounded, and sure in its footing.
Contest Winner: Tell Us What the Turtle Means To You
We asked you to tell us what Turtle means to you, both here and on our Facebook page, and there were so many interesting and heartfelt stories. The one that captured our hearts the most is by S. Treadwell, whose winning post is this:
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"I am a member of the Long Island Unkechaug, a tribe of fisherman who were 'the turtle clan' and saw the turtle in our native lore as the bedrock under the oceans that created the continents that we live on. The "mother earth" to many is the back of a massive sea turtle, with the dirt and ground being what she pulled up from the depths of the ocean so we could live. It is a powerful, spiritual, and very significant symbol in Native american lore, especially to my tribe."
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104 Comments
A most excellent totem ~ Turtle represents Mother Earth in multiple indigenous cultures across the globe ~ patience, persistence, support, sanctuary ~ adapted and connected to earth, water, and air throughout all seasons.
The turtle is my personal animal. I have a clay turtle made by an Indian. It was given to my mother-in-law in memory of her husband, a policeman killed in action. The turtle reminds me to take one day at a time, to be patient, and to stay grounded.
it is the most romantic piece of jewelry I own…my husband gave me a native American piece 30 years ago and I still wear it but would love to own a Celtic turtle..
The turtle in many lifestyles brings good luck to those who believe in its magic. Hawaiian people especially believe in this. As do the Celts. My great niece lives in Hawaii and has sent books on turtles. I do believe they are good luck.