In Hollywood movies, scarabs are depicted in ancient Egyptian Pyramids, tombs, and burial grounds eating humans and pouring out from poorly wrapped mummies. This makes for good TV drama, but scarabs don’t actually eat humans.
However, scarabs did play a pivotal role in ancient Egyptian culture and have long been associated with deep symbolic meaning in multiple cultures including ancient China.
Known as a sign of royalty, protection, and resurrection in Ancient Egypt, the scarab beetle represented a similar concept of ‘new life’ in Ancient China.
In this article, we’ll explore the history, origin, symbolism, and meanings behind the famous scarab beetle. Why was the scarab worshiped, and what can we learn today from what ancients knew in the past?
The scarab beetle holds deep spiritual meaning in many cultures worldwide. Throughout history, these small insects have symbolized concepts like transformation, resilience, renewal, and protection.
In this article, we’ll explore the key spiritual meanings associated with scarab beetles and how they can provide guidance in our everyday lives.
A Brief Background on Scarab Beetles
Scarab beetles belong to the family Scarabaeidae, which includes over 30,000 species of dung beetles, rollers, and tunnelers One of the most famous types of scarab beetles is the species Scarabaeus sacer, commonly known as the dung beetle
Scarab beetles are especially prevalent in regions like the Mediterranean, Africa, the Middle East, and Southern Europe. However, variations of these beetles live on every continent except Antarctica.
These resourceful insects survive by feeding on the dung of plant-eating animals. They break down waste, recycle nutrients back into the earth, and improve soil health.
The most distinctive trait of scarab beetles is their habit of rolling balls of dung along the ground. The female beetle rolls the ball into a burrow where she deposits an egg inside. When the egg hatches, the larva uses the ball for food and protection before emerging as an adult beetle.
Scarab Beetle Symbolism in Ancient Egypt
No culture revered the scarab beetle more than that of ancient Egypt. Scarab amulets and images abound in Egyptian art, artifacts, and hieroglyphs more than any other animal symbol.
According to Egyptian creation myths, a giant scarab beetle rolled the sun across the sky every day. The Egyptians believed the underside of the scarab resembled the solar disc, so they considered the beetle a solar symbol.
The scarab was also linked to the Egyptian god Khepri, the deity associated with the dawn, renewal, resurrection, and creation. As a result, the beetle was closely tied to the daily “rebirth” of the sun and the afterlife.
When Egyptian nobility died, scarab beetles were placed inside their sarcophagi. It was thought the insects would help guide and protect the dead in the journey to the underworld. Heart scarab amulets were placed over the mummy’s heart before burial.
Key Spiritual Meanings of the Scarab Beetle
Below are some of the main symbolic interpretations and spiritual messages associated with scarab beetles across cultures:
Transformation and Metamorphosis
Like the butterfly, the scarab beetle represents profound change, transformation, resurrection, and metamorphosis.
Scarab beetle spirit animal reminds us that we have the power to completely transform our lives through our thoughts, actions, and intentions. Even during times of difficulty, we can shed old ways of being and emerge renewed when we have faith in the transformative process.
The Power of Rebirth
The scarab beetle is linked to the cycle of the sun, the idea of perpetual renewal, and the concept of resurrection.
Scarab symbolism signals the importance of trusting in the process of rebirth. We must allow old parts of ourselves to “die” so that new growth may occur. This enables us to rise to our highest potential.
Determination and Strength
The scarab beetle is one of the most determined insects on earth. They display incredible perseverance as they roll heavy balls of dung much larger than themselves.
When scarab beetle enters your life, it awakens your inner tenacity and resilience. You feel motivated to keep going despite obstacles in your path. You understand that progress requires commitment, effort, and patience.
Protection and Guidance
In ancient Egypt, the beetle safeguarded and guided the souls of the dead to the afterlife. Today, scarab symbolism reminds us that we are always protected by divine forces that wish to lead us to purpose.
Scarab beetle meaning indicates you are on the right path. Though the way may sometimes be dark, you walk in the light and protection of spirit. Have faith that you are exactly where you need to be.
Good Fortune and Luck
As an ancient symbol of rebirth and prosperity, scarab amulets were considered good luck charms. Some cultures still believe that scarab beetle brings good fortune.
When scarab spirit animal enters your awareness, it may signal impending luck or positive changes to come. Remain alert to promising opportunities aligned with your path.
Hard Work and Reward
The scarab beetle’s association with dung relates to reward earned after hard work. They take discarded waste and turn it into something valuable.
Scarab symbolism emphasizes the fruits of your efforts. At times we must perform tasks that seem “messy” or unpleasant. Yet this work fuels our growth. Trust that your commitment will bring blessings.
When Scarab Beetle Visits Your Dreams
Like most spirit animals, scarab beetle meaning transforms when it visits your dreams versus waking life:
Positive dreams about scarab beetles signify that powerful transformations are on the horizon. You are about to experience great progress after overcoming a major challenge.
Nightmares involving scarab beetles may represent feelings of being stuck, an inability to change, or anxieties about necessary transformations. Examine an area of your life that needs renewal.
Dreams of being chased by scarab beetles indicate that you are resisting necessary change and growth. Let go of what no longer serves you so you can move forward.
Vivid dreams of scarab beetles landing on you symbolize that you are protected and never alone during difficult transitions. Have faith in your inner resilience.
Final Thoughts on Scarab Beetle Spiritual Meaning
Throughout human history, the scarab beetle has taken on deep spiritual significance across many cultures and faith traditions. Though an insect, it has come to represent higher concepts that can inspire our own spiritual evolution.
When scarab beetle symbolism crosses your path, reflect on concepts like transformation, rebirth, determination, protection, and inner strength. Let this tiny yet mighty spirit animal remind you of your own ability to reinvent yourself and overcome any limitation or challenge with belief, perseverance, and hope.
Scarabs Association With Atum
Atum, the Lord of the universe and the source of all creation, was another cosmic deity linked to the scarab.
Dung beetles hatched their eggs and created life out of nothingness . A vibrant new creation of young scarab beetles emerged, embodying the idea of spontaneous creation, something that only the god Atum could do.
The Egyptian Beetle God
The scarab beetle was sacred, divine, and special to ancient Egyptians. This critter was linked to the creation stories and had connections to the Egyptian gods, especially Khepri, the Egyptian “beetle” god.
It also connected with the god Atum and Ra, the most potent Egyptian god. Seemingly, the antennae on the scarab’s head were similar to the uraeus ( a solar disk surrounded by cobras)- a symbol only worn by powerful deities!
The Scarab Beetle – Mystery, Myth and Magic
FAQ
What is the spiritual meaning of a scarab beetle?
Symbol of Regeneration and Rebirth: The scarab beetle was associated with regeneration and rebirth. Ancient Egyptians observed the beetle emerging from dung balls, in which they laid eggs, symbolizing the cycle of life, death, and rebirth.
What does the beetle symbolize spiritually?
In the midst of life’s challenges, the beetle’s spiritual energy encourages us to stand firm, to keep moving forward, and to believe in our ability to surmount any difficulties that may come our way. Beyond its tenacity, the beetle is also a profound symbol of transformation.
What is the energy of the scarab beetle?
The scarab was considered a solar symbol because of its connection to Khepri and the sun. The Egyptians associated the sun with life, light, and energy, and they believed that the scarab had the power to bring about the sun’s daily rebirth and renewal.
What is the scarab beetle sacred to?
In ancient Egyptian religion, the scarab beetle was associated with the god Khepri, who was believed to represent the rising sun and creation. Scarab beetles were often depicted in art and used as amulets, symbolizing protection and good fortune.