According to research, dragonflies date as far back as 300 million years. The original dragonflies that lived in the Paleozoic era had wingspans that measured up to two feet. However, this has since changed with wingspans becoming shorter now measuring anywhere from 2 to 5 inches.
With over 5,000 known species of dragonflies, there is so much we can learn from them and their behaviours. But the question is, what does the bible say about dragonflies? And what is the symbolism associated with them? This article dives into all that. Read on to learn more on what does a dragonfly symbolize in the bible.
What You'll Learn Today
Growth And Development
To make things clear, unlike some other insects (e.g. moths or butterflies), the bible doesn’t directly mention the word dragonfly either in singular or in plural form. However, there is so much symbolism that filters through the verses of the bible that teach us and show us what a dragonfly means in our lives.
Throughout its lifespan, a dragonfly moults about 17 times in phases lasting 7 months each. During moulting, it shakes off the old and takes on the new. After every moult, the dragonfly enters a new phase of life symbolizing growth and the fact that we should aspire to be higher and better versions of ourselves.
The bible in 1 Peter 2:2, encourages growth among Christians.
“Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation”
In 2 Corinthians 5:17, the bible emphasizes that those who are in Christ Jesus are new creatures.
“Therefore, if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”
Every stage of growth comes with its changes. In the latter stages of its life, the dragonfly becomes more beautiful and colourful. Therefore, we are to take every change in life with courage, purpose, and power.
Emotional Awareness And Being Present
The dragonfly is known to fly only for a short time of its life. It spends its longest time as a nymph which is scientifically an immature state. However, despite its short flying life, it flies millions of miles during this stage.
A dragonfly is therefore a symbol of a life lived to the fullest. You cannot afford to carry the baggage of the past as that is behind you. The bible teaches us about living in the present and not worrying about our tomorrow.
In Mathew 6: 31-32, the bible says,
“Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. “
This also reinforces the concept of emotional awareness. Knowing who you are, where you are at a point in time and what matters in your life at that point.
Determination And Power
The movements of a dragonfly are baffling. Did you know that it could move at a speed of 45 miles an hour? Also, it can fly in all directions and hover liken a helicopter. This show of power and might is a symbol that God created as powerful beings that can do anything.
It is an invitation to courage and determination. God is telling us to move from our comfort zones and venture into the unknown. In the book of 2Timothy 5:7, the bible confirms that we are powerful:
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
In another section of scripture, the symbolism of power comes alive again. This is illustrated in Ephesian 1: 19-20,
“And his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms,”
Going The Extra Mile
The dragonfly, as it flies through the water, symbolizes a divine act of going beyond the ordinary or superficial into the deep things of life.
The bible has often encouraged Christians not to settle for the ordinary and worldly things, rather to did into the spiritual dimensions to find more about the true meaning of their journey in Christ.
In Ephesians 6:12, the bible gives us a glimpse of the deeper spiritual dimensions that transcend the physical world that we are living in. It says,
“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.”
As the dragonfly cuts through the water, it reminds Christians of the power of the word of God in Hebrew 4:12,
“For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
Symbol Of Light And Positivity
In life, people go through a lot of things some of which could be overwhelming. The dragonfly carries a crucial biblical symbol that can give us reprieve.
By bringing in the symbol of light, the dragonfly indirectly communicates with our inner beings that we need not take things too seriously. We have God who cares for us.
In Micah 7:8, the bible says:
“Do not gloat over me, my enemy! Though I have fallen, I will rise. Though I sit in darkness, the LORD will be my light.”
It also brings in positivity. There is always hope even in difficult moments and the dragonfly carries that symbol of hope right into our desperate moments. In proverbs 23:18, the bible tells us,
“For surely there is a hereafter, and your hope will not be cut off.”
Conclusion
The dragonfly is a powerful insect that brings deep messages of growth and development, emotional awareness, determination, and power.
Even as we wade through life events that seem torturous, the sight of the dragonfly can bring in a biblical significance that there is light at the end of the tunnel and there is hope despite the present sorrows and trials.
If you are looking for more articles about bible symbolism, read this one about a rose in the bible.
Arcilia N. Miller
This article was so interesting. As a very young child, I would watch dragonflies , mesmerized by their beautiful colors. I have been in so many horrible situations, not having the maturity I needed to have control and manage my life to fulfill my purpose in life. Now I truly have self realization to show my beautiful colors and let go of all ties that keep me from progress. I became aware of God when I know He visited me at the tender age of 4 or 5 years old. This article gave me conformation. Thank you.