What Does a Black Butterfly Mean?

The symbolism surrounding butterflies and death has been with us for centuries. They have played a huge part in many cultures’ history, myths and legends, and are still a source of mystery to modern day Christians. One of the largest myths around them is that they bring good fortune. This is based on the fact that they are butterflies and also brings fear and destruction into the lives of their victims.

In many cultures butterflies and the symbol of the caterpillar are used at funerals and memorial services to represent the death of a dearly departed loved one. It is believed that when a butterfly emerges from its shell it represents the soul of the victim, and when it descends from the tree it represents the life that they have lived since that point in time. Often the caterpillar will hold a flower in its beak, and this act symbolizes the rebirth of their spirit after death. This belief is very much alive at times in Christian denominations. Many people believe that if you put a black butterfly on top of a coffin or inside a casket that it will help it rise again into the heavens.

Another common myth surrounding the existence of butterflies and good luck relates to the color of the butterfly. They are often associated with the color of green and are often used by farmers as a symbol of abundance and prosperity. However, the most commonly believed meaning of the colored butterfly means that it is symbolic of the resurrection. People believe that as a caterpillar rises it will eventually grow up to resemble a butterfly in full regalia, just like the legendary story of the caterpillar and the dragon.