What do butterflies symbolize?

Symbolic Butterfly Meaning in Cultural Myth, Beliefs and History. Animal symbolism is a big deal in cultural identity. And the butterfly makes important appearances on the stage of human beliefs and understanding. ... Christianity considers the butterfly as a symbol for the soul. read more

The exquisite butterfly was considered a miracle of transformation and resurrection. In the Old World, the connotation was negative; the butterfly was thought to be the spirit of the dead. In Gnostic art, the angel of death is depicted crushing a butterfly underfoot. Its attraction to flame and light symbolize purification by fire. read more

Butterflies also symbolize rebirth, new beginning, resurrection, transition, celebration, lightness, time, rebirth after death, etc. More about the symbolic meaning of butterfly: The Mandarin Chinese word for butterfly is "hu-tieh". "Tieh" means "70 years", therefore butterflies have become a symbol for a long life. read more