Last Updated on October 1, 2020 by Avia

Symbolic Meaning of the Scorpion

Scorpion Meaning

I’ve gotten a few email requests about the symbol meaning for Scorpion, so I thought I’d include the symbolic meanings of scorpions on this site, seeing as there is such an interest.

The symbol meaning of Scorpion, much like its appearance, can be little foreboding. That is, if we do not have the inner eyes to see the beauty and complexity of its symbolism.

Although the symbol meaning for scorpion can appear a little harsh at first glance, when we really contemplate the Scorpion in all its wonder – then compare these meanings against the events in our own lives, we will inevitably find a common ground and learn some timely lessons from the scorpion too.

Below are a few facts on the symbol meaning for scorpion along with some cultural history and background.

A big lesson from the scorpion is best expressed in this quote:

“When the spirit of a man is decisive and firm,
the space clears around him
and others give him room.”
~John Watson Foster

A potent message the scorpion chooses to express is that of protection and/or isolation. In fact, they themselves are quite solitary – part of the reason why they symbolize In fact, many people with the scorpion as their totem tend to have brief spells of passion with a partner only to end the relationship and spend long periods content to be alone.

The Scorpion will mate in an exotic, dance of passion and control. The Scorpion sex dance is one of beauty, control, and calculation.

The female allows her new offspring to ride on her back until they shed their first exoskeleton – then her offspring leaves her – all of them going off to their lone, solitary lives – another example of intensity in relationship followed by isolation.

Defensiveness/control/protection is evident in the scorpions appearance – which seems to say “Do not trifle with me.” One look at this magnificent creature says “back off!” does it not?

It’s true the tiniest scorpions pack the most deadly punch. That’s symbolic of big things coming in little packages.

Symbolic Meanings of the Scorpion – Keywords

A summary of symbol meaning of scorpion are as follows…

Sex
Control
Transition
Death/Dying
Passion
Treachery
Protection
Perception
Defensiveness
Resourcefulness
Solitary/Being Alone

As a symbol of protection – we can consider the venomous tip of the scorpion which numbs its prey as well as makes its prey chemically digestible for the scorpion. Whether the scorpion intends to eat the victim of its sting is irrelevant because its sting will most certainly protect the scorpion in order for it to live another day.

Symbolic Scorpion Meaning in Various Cultures

In Samaria, the scorpion is associated with the Sun, and ancient writings depict Scorpion-men guarding (protecting) sacred gateways leading to ascension, pleasure and enlightenment.

Death symbolism comes into play in Greco-Roman mythology where Artemis (Diana) used the Scorpion to sting Orion’s foot, which caused his death. Afterwards, Zeus (Jupiter) made the Scorpion a zodiac sign among the stars.

There are some species where the venom is actually the antidote for its sting (like cobras). In Egypt and Tibet this is seen as an omen, and the scorpion is made into an amulet – signifying protection and warding off evil. In Africa, the scorpion is also seen as a healing sign – its venomous oil used for medicinal purposes.

When we consider the message this incredible creature has for us, we must first consider its outstanding features, which are the scorpion’s natural protective/defensive mechanisms. For example, consider the scorpion’s hard exoskeleton as a line of defense. Also consider its sharp potentially damaging pinchers – not to mention its venomous stinger.

As a symbol meaning, the scorpion represents protection. When the scorpion makes an appearance in our lives, it is beckoning us to consider the following: