The Religious Significance of Bees and Beehives in Egyptian, Israelite, and Latter-day Saint Traditions

Authors

Anita Cramer, Brigham Young University

Keywords

Symbols, Beehive, Bees, iconography

Abstract

The bee and beehive have been pervasive symbols in many ancient societies and religions. This iconography continues in the modern world, as Latter-day Saint beehives clearly testify. From Brigham Young University letterhead, to Utah highway signs, to the Salt Lake Temple doors, the state of Deseret continues to flaunt its mascot Yet few realize the profound symbolism, such as royalty and rebirth, associated with the bee. Examining the ancient Egyptian and Israelite usage of bees in a religious context, therefore, is intriguing, and provides insight into why Latter-day Saint pioneers chose to identify with the beehive and its inhabitants. Pharaonic Egypt and Biblical Israel incorporated bee symbolism into their religious lore, and were among the original instigators of this emblem, which was later adopted by early Latter-day Saints.

Recommended Citation

Cramer, Anita (1995) "The Religious Significance of Bees and Beehives in Egyptian, Israelite, and Latter-day Saint Traditions," The Thetean: A Student Journal for Scholarly Historical Writing: Vol. 24: Iss. 1, Article 9.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/thetean/vol24/iss1/9