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Centipede Symbolism & Meaning (+Totem, Spirit & Omens)

centipede on the ground

Centipedes are the ultimate “creepy crawlies.” Their many-legged bodies are more often the subject of horror than fascination. In spite of this, there is much about the centipede that is both interesting and unique. Nature’s creatures come in all shapes and sizes, and even those that give us the willies have valuable lessons to offer!

Table of contents

Centipede Symbolism and Meaning

Centipedes and millipedes are multi-legged predatory arthropods which live in a variety of different terrestrial habitats.

These bugs are found in almost every region of the planet, including, even, the Arctic Circle. (1) It is estimated that there are as many as seven thousand species of centipede on the planet, however only about three thousand have been discovered and recorded. (2) Centipedes live in soil, under rocks and dead wood, and inside logs. Because they live in dirt, centipedes are often associated with death and decay. 

Due to its preference for hidden places, the centipede is sometimes associated with the afterlife or the “Underworld.” This association sometimes connects centipedes to occult forces and taboo subjects.

centipede on a leaf

The centipede’s unusual anatomy connects it with speed and dexterity. The centipede’s venomous bite associates these fearsome arthropods with both sickness and medicine.

Both centipede and millipede are symbols of good luck, energy, and healing. In addition, it is said that centipedes are among the only things that dragons fear. So, centipedes represent the power and ferocity that even the smallest of creatures can embody.

Finally, perhaps the strongest association with centipedes is fear itself. Centipedes represent anxieties, phobias both rational and irrational, and nightmares. Because of this, centipedes can also represent the courageous act of confronting one’s fears.

Centipede Native American Symbolism

Insects play an essential role in Native American folklore. Navajo and Zuni mythologies are very complex and include many legends involving insects depicted as monsters.

One of the stories told by the Navajo elders involves giant centipedes born from the blood of the primordial monsters who once ruled the earth. These giant centipedes were said to be able to jump high and launch themselves at the vulnerable necks of their victims. The big centipedes are associated with evil, ancient power, and the Underworld. (3)

The Zuni population also have stories featuring a giant centipede which emerged from the Underworld. An important shamanistic element, the centipede symbol, is present in Zuni art, such as the rock art from the Upper Little Colorado River region. (4)

centipede portrait

One Zuni folk tale involves the young brothers Ahaiyuta and Matsailema, who stole the lightning-shaft and the thunder-stone from the Gods of Rain. The two boys were helped by their grandfather, the Centipede, who was larger back then.

When the Gods of Rain discovered the theft, they punished the Centipede by handing him the lightning-shaft, which burned him until he became smaller. (5)

The Native American symbol of the centipede is deeply connected with shamanism. Although sometimes thought of as fearsome and monstrous, centipedes are also connected with wisdom, longevity, and foresight.

Centipede Eastern Symbolism

The Centipede is an important insect for many Asian cultures. In traditional Chinese medicine, the centipede is significant and powerful. It is thought to have the ability to treat convulsions. (6)

The Centipede is part of the Five Poisons, a group of five venomous creatures often mentioned in Traditional Chinese medicine, martial arts, or Feng Shui. Depicted on amulets and talismans, the centipede’s role was to represent the liver function and to clear toxins from the body. (7)

centipede on the ground

In Japan, the giant centipede, Omukade, was the messenger of the god of warfare, Bishamonten. Omukade is a Yokai (supernatural monster) in Japanese mythology, and it was believed that Okumade had the power to hunt and eat humans and dragons alike. Okumade’s one weakness is human saliva. Omukade’s name is actually derived from “mukade” which is the Japanese name for the Giant Centipede. (8)

Centipede Christianity symbolism

Centipedes and millipedes are not frequently mentioned in either the Bible itself or Christian religious iconography. When centipedes do appear, they are usually representative of sin, evil, and death.

Due to its venomous bite, the centipede may be connected with death and witchcraft. Lurking in damp, dirty places, the centipede may also be connected with Hell or Purgatory

centipede on a white background

The Rutland Psalter, a Medieval manuscript of the Psalms with many beasts, monsters, and animals drawn in the margins, depicts a many-legged dragon. This creature is reminiscent of the centipede and is certainly evocative of the centipede’s hellish Christian reputation. (9)

Centipede Celtic Symbolism

Centipedes and millipede are not common figures in Celtic folklore. However, it seems that the centipede can at least be thought of as a symbol of death. 

The Irish Banshee was often depicted as an older woman surrounded by creepy crawlers such as spiders and centipedes. The cry of the Banshee is thought to be a harbinger of death. (10)

centipede on the ground

It is the habit of the millipede is to curl in a spiral when attacked. The Celtic spiral is a symbol of expanding consciousness. So, millipedes may have been thought of as symbols of wisdom, introspection, or arcane knowledge.

Centipede African Symbolism

Millipedes are important creatures for many African peoples. A particular species, the giant African millipede, is sometimes kept as a pet. The people from the East coast of Africa call it “shongololo.” (11)

Millipedes are decomposers, feeding on rotten leaves and tree logs. One legend from Africa describes millipedes as failed messengers of immortality.

In this story, creator sent the millipede to tell people that they would never die. Along the way, though, the messenger millipede grew hungry and stopped to eat. While the millipede took its time eating, the creator sent a second messenger, a chameleon, to tell humanity that they would not be immortal after all and that they would eventually die. Because the millipede was lazy, the chameleon arrived first and the millipede was far too late to give humanity the good news.

centipede on the ground

Although the many-legged messenger arrived too late to deliver immortality, the millipede spiritual meaning is still related to longevity and good luck. (12)

The old Egyptians worshipped the centipede god Sepa, sometimes referred to as the “centipede of Horus.” Ancient Egyptians noticed that insects fed on the corpses of the dead, but that the centipede hunted these insects, so the centipede was thought of as a protector of the dead. Sepa was thought to prevent venomous attacks from creatures like snakes. He was also connected with fertility. (13)

Centipede in Dreams

Centipedes in dreams might feel intimidating or scary, but depending upon context, such dreams might actually deliver messages of positivity or good fortune.

Centipedes in dreams often represent hidden things. A centipede dream may relate to a secret or repressed desire or trait. Although confronting hidden aspects of oneself may be uncomfortable, it is ultimately very rewarding and may result in a more complete knowledge of oneself.

centipede in a shoe

A centipede dream may also represent forward progress. This is due to the speed and maneuverability of the centipede. If you’ve been dreaming of these skittering arthropods, then it is a good reminder to focus on your goals in order to progress.

Many centipedes appearing in a dream may represent liars in one’s life. Be careful not to trust anyone who keeps dangerous secrets from you.

Centipede Encounters and Omens

The centipede is the subject of many superstitions. Depending on the culture and region, seeing a centipede may be either a good or bad omen.

For Korean people, a centipede encounter may be a sign of good luck and wealth. A centipede’s appearance in one’s house may signify prosperity and wealth on the horizon. In fact, centipede, in Korean, means “money bug,” so killing a centipede might just be a bad financial move!

The people of Martinique have a different opinion. In this region, it is thought that if you kill a centipede, you will receive money. Consequently, people find great pleasure in killing these creatures. (14)

centipede on the ground

African people, as mentioned above, often keep giant millipedes as pets. In many regions of Africa, a millipede in one’s house is a sign of good luck and joy.

Centipede Mythology and Folklore

Centipedes often appear in mythology as monstrous creatures. From the giant Japanese Centipede Omukade to the strong Egyptian god Sepa, thes many-legged bugs appear in several myths and legends around the world. 

An ancient Korean legend features the centipede woman who competed with the serpent to ascend to Heavens. (15) In this story, a poor man unable to provide for his family decided to climb the mountain to die there. On the road, he meets a woman who invites him to stay with her. The man accepts but after a while he starts to miss his family. 

centipede on a white background

The woman lets him go home after she warns him not to listen to anyone else on the road. The man arrives back at home and learns that his family is fine with the help of the mountain woman. He decides to return to her and thank her for her help. On his way back to the woman, he encounters a serpent which took the form of a dead ancestor. The snake tells him that the woman is a centipede and to kill her. The man refuses. With the help of the man’s trust, the centipede ascends to heaven. (16)

Hawaiian centipede myths feature the trickster Iro who was betrayed by his birthmark in the shape of a centipede. (17)

Centipede Spirit Animal

The centipede spirit animal is connected with balance, moderation, health, and efficiency. People with the centipede as their spirit animal tend to be level-headed and judicious.

If the centipede is your spirit animal, then you are naturally inclined towards financial success. The centipede has a natural talent for attracting wealth, but may be hurt by its laziness and greed. Make sure that you work hard to earn your goals so that you can attract rich experiences and relationships into your life instead of just money.

Centipede Totem Animal

Centipede animal totem belongs to those able to move through life with ease and grace. The centipede or millipede people possess the ability to coordinate their talents to enhance success.

As the Centipede grows more legs as it matures, people with this totem might be late bloomers. People with the centipede or millipede totem animal keep their calm in extreme situations and maintain their laser focus. People with the centipede totem crave stability and, despite their qualities, are shy. In an attempt to avoid the spotlight, they might become a bit reclusive.

centipede on the ground

In Eastern culture, the centipede is a powerful animal associated with war leaders because frightens even the bravest of beasts. 

When attacked, the millipede curls up in a spiral. People with the millipede totem tend to be drawn to patterns and puzzles. They can be very creative despite having trouble expressing themselves. 

Centipede Power Animal

People should summon the centipede power animal whenever they need guidance to overcome obstacles. The centipede power animal can help you to find your hidden capabilities in times of need.

The centipede power animal enhances focus and brings out hidden potential. This can be especially helpful during periods of crisis. The centipede helps you endure difficult situations.

centipede on the ground

The centipede is a symbol of coordinated efforts. If you are a dancer or athlete, the centipede can be especially helpful. Moving all of its legs in sync, the centipede inspires us to keep up with the complex dance of life.

Centipede Tattoo Meaning

Centipede tattoos may seem creepy, but many people, due to cultural reasons or just preferences, choose centipedes as positive tattoo subjects.

A centipede tattoo may be chosen as a symbol of protection, especially for travelers. It may also represent longevity, healing, or growth.

The centipede, is also linked to death. A centipede tattoo may act as a “memento mori,” or a reminder that death claims us all so we must live in the present.

illustration of a centipede

The shape of the Centipede makes it great for any spot on your body. People usually pick the back or arm to display their centipede tattoo.

Conclusion

While centipedes may not ever be your favorite animal, it is important that we learn about and appreciate even the creatures that aren’t exactly cute and cuddly. We sincerely hope that you found something to appreciate about the centipede in this article. Perhaps the next time you cross paths with these bugs, you’ll think about their unique virtues rather than just their skittering legs!

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25 thoughts on “Centipede Symbolism & Meaning (+Totem, Spirit & Omens)”

  1. Avatar

    Thank you Hailey.
    I loved reading this.
    I was just showering and had one on my leg. As much as I love all kinds of animals, I had a shocking fear reaction.
    When I relaxed and told myself I was totally fine, I saw it spiraling in the water.
    I thanked it for coming to me, cause I realused it brought me back into my body and helped me let go of my fear and stress-thoughts that I was in while showering.
    I loved reading all the different symbolism and meaning. It gave me hope and strength again. And lots of inspiration.
    My name is Bert (or bird 😉 ) De Cat. And I looooove birds too.
    Lots of gratitude and love for you and for all of life!

  2. Avatar

    Hello there, i had strange dream.I were standing in the edge of a big rock, and stare to the sky at the stairy night, then i saw giant Centipede crawling in the it has gray or r dirty white colour,i have no fear to watch that show,beacuse that creature was so elegance and her moves was so slight,and i watch it almost hypnotised.
    What does the dream means,somebody have any idea?
    Thank you

  3. Avatar

    Woke up to a giant centipede stinging me on my fingertip. The most painful bite ever it’s been about 5 hours and still throbbed like it just happened. My finger is twice the size. Also no idea where it went trying to find it and either transition it to it’s next life or end it’s journey for good. Something that evil doesn’t deserve to be given more chances to hurt people.

  4. Avatar

    I just saw one in my tub and it was hanging on to dear life on the jacuzzi box. I realizedit was there and felt bad. So I put a bucket near them and it willingly crawled into and my roommate set it outside since I couldn’t because I was getting ready for a bath 🙃. I’m glad we saved it. We only ask for it not to bite us 😅

  5. Avatar

    As I walked into the bathroom at 2:30 this morning there were this baby centerpede in the bath tub crawling. Grabbing the bleach pouring it on it. Really thought it were a snake until later. Living in the desert for over twenty years this is my first encounter with a centerpede. Other crawlers yes. Sorry.

  6. Avatar
    Daniel fajuyagbe

    I was sitting on the couch couple of weeks ago and one crawled on my back so I killed it and then I was brushing my tooth and found another one in the toilet sink I also killed it and tonight a baby centipede crawled up my stomach so I dusted it off and killed it reading this article make me understand better now but I’m curious why I’m having so much encounters with them lately?

  7. Avatar
    Pauline Edwards

    I see them all the time, inside and outside my house, i kill them all the time, not knowing this that I’ve read.
    I’m just scared and afraid of them and i don’t think i can see one in my house and not kill it…I’m so sorry 🙏

  8. Avatar

    Thank you very much I understand from today when I see something not early killing some can come to improve your life

  9. Avatar

    Since last 2 yrs I m encountered with this insect and that to daily.I scared and preferred to sleep in other bedroom but it comes there also.Every night it crawls over me and I used to wake up and spray antipest.I don’t understand why suddenly I’m facing this issue where as no other member of family encountering.. maybe I sweat a lot is the reason.Btw it’s a great script and you pls throw some light on it ..

  10. Avatar
    Faruk Kolawole

    I just killed one on my bed now I felt something warm moving around my leg on my bed quickly I put on my touch because there is no power I saw it moving so fast I hit it with my shoe
    I felt bad killing it after seeing dis article Buh I believe it visited me for good reason in God’s Grace 🙏
    So so sorry dear millipede

  11. Avatar
    Abdulateef Adepetu

    I just encountered one in my toilet. Scared , i hurridly killed it. Now i know better, i would not have killed it. But it moved so fast. I was scared

  12. Avatar

    Oh, I just killed a centipede on my bed at 2am. Thanks for for this information about centipedes and millipedes. My actions would be different if I knew

  13. Avatar

    Grand rising I woke up this morning to a baby centipede in my bed with me on my pillow 😂 so I had to do some homework cause I needed to know why it was in the bed with me lol

  14. Avatar

    I saw one in my house today , this morning..I just lost my brother 5 weeks ago and my family has been silent. I live alone in a different state ..I believe I’m going to just leave mine be…and let him roam …I see more good in the reading then bad ..I believe There’s luck 🙏

    1. Avatar

      I’m glad you enjoyed our article and that this centipede has given you comfort. I’m sure it has visited for a reason!

      — Hailey Brophy
      Writer @ World Birds

  15. Avatar

    I’m sorry I flushed the great symbol down the toilet… I just got so scared it was on my pillow as I was getting ready for bed. I have learned… I called to God for help yesterday and he sent me a sign …. be strong be fierce like the warrior I am.

    1. Avatar

      Good Morning Vivie,
      I just did the same thing. I was sitting in bed and I felt something moving around my ankle so fast I almost missed it and had to do a doubletake. It moved so swiftly and got off me. I hurry up and put a shoe on top of it but did not squish it. I was so aggravated. It was 30 minutes ago and My flesh is still crawly-like. However, I picked it up in a piece of tissue, and put it in the toilet , and flushed it, and I watched it spiral down the toilet alive. Then I came here. I just cleaned my bed room, and did a cleaning after a couple of weeks. I was sitting here in bliss sort of and then this event happened so I don’t know. If anyone reads this and has an input , Chime in. Then about two months ago My teenager came upstairs at bout 3 AM and was so freaked out about a bug he and His friend had trapped under the ashtray, and they were so creeped out about how it looked and all the legs. Now I am convinced this is what they saw. My Son said legs on both sides and 10-12 legs, on both sides. I could not imagine it visually then and I was trying to figure out what bug let yall trap it under an ashtray and burn it with a torch. Wow. Sorry this was so lengthy, but that event and tonight’s event with me are resonating clearly together to me for some reason. Thank you

  16. Avatar

    Thank you for this inspiring insight, I just came across a shongololo ( I live in South Africa
    and have always called them by this name ), in an unusual place, so I couldn’t ignore it. I now have some info to work with..

  17. Avatar

    Very informative 👌🏾
    In my culture, Caribbean, seeing or dreaming centipedes are signs of someone you know, or acquainted to, is pregnant or going to be.

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