Bees have had a significant impact on human history. These hardworking insects have an unquestionably important impact ecologically and an unmatched work ethic, often making them highly revered in many cultures.

The bee has a clear symbolic representation to many due to its resourcefulness, synergistic living, and close relationship to nature and reproduction.

If you are curious about what other cultures thought about or how they interpreted the symbolism of the bee, this article is for you.

Bee Types and Characteristics

Bees are a large group of insects with around 20,000 different species within it. These busy pollinators come in a large variety of shapes, sizes, colour shades, and behaviours, but most have these qualities:

• All bees have two antennae, a thorax, six legs, and an abdomen
• Bees have two pairs of wings
• Their body is hairy, although how much varies by type
• Adult bees are between 2 mm to 4 cm big
• Bees depend on flowers for food

Bees in Different Cultures Throughout History

Many cultures have used the bee as a symbol in their sacred spaces, art, storytelling, and music. The symbolic interpretation differed from group to group but often held many parallels and positive connotations:

Chinese Symbolism. Bees can often be seen throughout Chinese art and clothing. They were revered as a symbol of good luck and prosperity.

Greek Culture. The bee was thought of as a messenger of the gods. Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty, was often depicted with bees. Many Greek people believed that these intelligent creatures could communicate with the gods.


Photo credit: Wikipedia

Celtic Symbolism. In Celtic history, bees symbolised new life, fertility, and wisdom. The goddess of fire, Brigid, also known as the Exalted One, was often seen in Celtic art with bees present.

Native Culture. In native art, the bee represented honesty and a willingness to serve others. They could be seen in the Canadian Northwest Coast people's indigenous cultural performances and dances. Native American communities from the United States viewed the bee as a symbol of productivity and diligent work.

Egyptian Royalty. In ancient Egypt, bees were a sign of royalty and great power. The goddess Neth was often seen with a bee on her head, and they could also be seen in ancient hieroglyphics as representing the King.

Indian Culture. India’s oldest sacred book, called the Rig-Veda, has many stories including bees, and many Hindu gods and goddesses are associated with bees. These important insects were a sign of fertility and abundance to Indian people.


Photo credit: Planet Bee Foundation

The Symbolic and Spiritual Meaning of Bees

For many cultures and countries, the hardworking bee held many different representations. The bee may repeatedly present itself to you physically or come to you during meditation or dreams. Perhaps you find yourself drawn to its energy, or you feel as though the Universe is trying to deliver you a message through the presence of the bee. Whatever your reason, here are some of the symbolisms that may resonate with you:

Bees Represent Hard Work and Productivity. To many, the bee seems to have abundant energy and workmanship. They are known for their incredible work ethic and highly productive lives. Perhaps you are taking on a new venture or need the motivation to push through a challenge or obstacle. The bee can be a beautiful reminder to stay on the path.

Bees are the Epitome of Community and Team Work. Without a doubt, the individual bee would be nothing without its colony. These harmonious creatures work together to achieve common goals and symbolise the power of cooperation and group effort. If you want to bond with your partner, family, team, or community, the bee can be a wonderful representation of that vision.

Bees Represent the Divine Feminine and Rebirth. Many cultures and religions hold the bee as a symbol of agriculture, Spring time, fertility, and new life. Also, it is a nod to the change of the seasons, both literally and metaphorically. If you are going through a life change or trying to find a new path, the bee can be a great reminder to embrace the change and enjoy the journey along the way.

Bees are Symbolic of Wisdom and Knowledge. The bee is a wise guardian in the journey of life. They are thought to be very intelligent and have the ability to deliver messages from the Universal Spirit. Research shows they can learn, gain knowledge, and solve new tasks. If you want to harness wisdom from everything around you, the bee can be a suitable reminder to do just that.

The Bee-luminate Print from Empath Designs

Empath Designs created the Bee-luminate print as a way to carry on the symbolic and important interpretations of the bee into the modern age.

Bee-luminate - Giclée Paper Print is printed on sustainably sourced bamboo paper and is a stunning gift that embodies community, perseverance, and intelligence. Let Bee-lumniate light up your journey and your home or office.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do Bees do?

The importance of bees on this planet cannot be understated. In short, they provide a number of crucial ecological functions that support a diverse and beautiful planet, such as:

1. Pollination. Bees collect nectar and pollen from flowers which help plants to reproduce.
2. Biodiversity. Another benefit of pollination is that bees help pollinate wildflowers, which are food sources for many other animals. This pollination also is critical to provide many fruit and vegetable crops.
3. Food Security. Many of our food sources require the act of pollination. 
4. Increased Production. Bees help farmers by increasing crop yields.

What does a dead bee represent?

As unfortunate as it is to find a dead bee in your home or garden, it is a part of life that many cultures believe has a symbolic meaning. Finding a dead bee can mean:

• A loved one’s passing
• An omen or bad luck
• An ending or loss
• A warning that something is off balance

What does a dream about a bee mean?

If you see bees in your dreams, it can mean a number of things:

• Money, riches, and wealth coming your way
• Being stung in your dream represents a fear of emotional or physical pain
• Being chased by a swarm of bees in a dream can be related to fears of letting a group down or your responsibilities to that group
• Hearing buzzing can be related to hurt feelings or someone speaking about you behind your back