Turtle

A turtle usually is a symbol of longevity, slowness, lubricity. 

Common meanings as a symbol:

Turtles carry profound symbolic meanings across many cultures and traditions:

Longevity and Wisdom Due to their long lifespans (some species live over 100 years), turtles universally symbolize longevity, endurance, and ancient wisdom. They represent the accumulation of knowledge over time and patient, thoughtful living.

Protection and Safety The turtle's shell makes it a natural symbol of protection, boundaries, and self-defense. It represents the idea of carrying your home with you and the wisdom of knowing when to retreat into safety.

Patience and Persistence The phrase "slow and steady wins the race" from Aesop's fable captures the turtle's symbolic association with patience, determination, and the value of consistent effort over rushed action.

Mother Earth and Creation Many Indigenous cultures, particularly in North America, feature the turtle in creation myths. The concept of "Turtle Island" represents North America itself, with the turtle carrying the world on its back—symbolizing Mother Earth, stability, and grounding.

Navigation and Direction Sea turtles' remarkable ability to navigate vast oceans and return to their birthplace makes them symbols of inner guidance, finding one's way home, and trusting instinct.

Balance Between Elements As creatures that live both on land and in water, turtles symbolize balance, adaptability, and the ability to navigate different realms or aspects of life—emotional and practical, spiritual and physical.

Chinese and Feng Shui Symbolism In Chinese culture, the turtle (especially the black turtle) represents the north, winter, and water. It's one of the four celestial animals and symbolizes support, stability, and protection.

Transformation and Peace The turtle's gentle nature and unhurried pace also make it a symbol of peace, tranquility, and going with the flow of life.