Dolphin Symbolism: Meanings & Significance Explored

Introduction

Have you ever watched dolphins frolicking? Something is reassuring and peaceful about their playful antics. They seem to happily grin while leading carefree lives. We know that dolphins, like humans, are intelligent, and possess a strong sense of community. They are brave as well, as dolphins don’t turn tail (literally!) when threatened by predators like sharks. They fight back! For centuries many ancient cultures gave dolphins a special place in their legends, myth, and folklore. Let us explore the meaning of dolphin symbolism.

Table of Contents

• Dolphins as a Symbol of Protection
• Dolphins as a Symbol of Resurrection
• Dolphins as a Symbol of Grace

Dolphins as a Symbol of Protection

To this day, seafaring cultures continue to value dolphins as a symbol of protection. Sailors of many nations consider a dolphin to be lucky, or a good omen. Often, this was for practical reasons, as pods of dolphins frequent shipping lanes and coastal areas where humans dwell. For the earliest seafarers, a dolphin would have been a welcome sight and sign that dry land wasn’t far away. Old sea dogs knew that dolphins following a ship was a good omen, as their boat was sure to reach harbor safely.

This kind-hearted nature can be traced back to at least one of many Greek myths. To Ancient Greeks, dolphins were hugely revered, showing up in countless ways as messengers, rescuers and more. But, how did dolphins come to be protectors?

Whenever the buccaneers would try and tie the god up, their efforts would fail. Knots would slip and not hold their place. The rope would fray and break. With creeping horror, it dawned upon the pirates that only a powerful being, such as a god, could exert such power!

Dolphins as a Symbol of Resurrection

Going back to our Ancient Greek friends, we can learn that dolphins were responsible for bringing the recently deceased to the Islands of the Blessed. Also known as the Fortunate Isles, the purest of souls would be able to reside here in the afterlife with the heroes and heroines of Ancient Greek myth.

Dolphins as a Symbol of Grace

If you’ve ever had the joy of watching a pod of dolphins at play, then it’s easy to understand why they have long been valued for their gracefulness. There is a strong spirit of freedom present as we watch them jump and dive, splash and swim. The sleek form of a dolphin effortlessly glides through the water, going where he might please.

Conclusion

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