The symbolism of the bee

I was prompted to thinking of the symbol of the bee by a question on a Facebook group. So today has turned into a short reflection on the bee and its symbolism. Since I proudly wear a tattoo of a bee on my bum, the bee always had significance for me personally.

The bee has been venerated by various cultures and schools of thought. Taking time to contemplate the bee quickly reveal why a contemplation of the bee has much value for us to ponder. Such a little insect that has evolved so far in such an amazing way is a source for inspiration to humanity.

In my book of symbols the following is wrtten: In Greek mythology Zweus was raised on milk and honey; the bee was associated with the goddess Artemis and the fertility goddess Diameter, whose priestesses at eleusis were known as “bees”. The symbol of a soul, the bee signified the ability to enter the underworld as Demeter did, and return from it. The honey of bees represented honeyed words of eloquent philosophers such as Plato and Sohocles. Plato asserted the the souls of good and moral men were reincarnated as bees.” and “The bee is a symbol of industry, hard work, creativity and diligence. In heraldry it is used to represent well-regulated industry. The bee is the most popular insect in heraldry and is usually shown with a beehive.” Reading the latter it is reasonable for me as an Industrial Engineer to be infatuated by the bee as a prime example of an industrious endeovour.

Another website (http://www.polarissite.net/symbolism-of-the-bee.html) connects the symbolism of the to the Egytptian Goddess Neith since her temple was called “the house of bees” which is a well worth article to read as it covers the bee being connected to the Greek Muses etc. The symbol of the bee is also prevalent on the Empress Tarot card in the Rider-Waite deck where the empress is dressed in the material with the bee emblem on it. Here the connection is strengthened with fertility.

In my own contemplation the bee is a reflection of a structured society, where individuals cooperate and collaborate in service of the collective. Service to humanity is seen by many mystics as a goal wheere all work to the benefit of all. The bee is also associated with the production of honey… That golden tasty liquid that is sweet, healthy and long lasting which is a symbol of the alchemist striving to create the elixir of life.