Table of Contents
Turtles are one of the oldest reptile groups, with a fossil record dating back over 220 million years, to the late Triassic period. This makes them older than snakes, crocodiles, and alligators, and much older than mammals and birds.
Here is a list of turtles in mythology, American native stories, and legends:
Mythology
World Turtle (or Cosmic Turtle)
- Hindu Mythology: The World Turtle, sometimes depicted as the god Kurma, an avatar of Vishnu, supports the world on its back.
- Chinese Mythology: The turtle Ao carries the world on its back and is associated with longevity and stability.
The Black Tortoise (Xuanwu)
- Chinese Mythology: One of the Four Symbols, it represents the north and the winter season, often depicted with a snake wrapped around it.
American Native Stories
Great Turtle (Turtle Island)
- Iroquois Mythology: The Great Turtle carries the world on its back. The land of North America is referred to as Turtle Island in various Native American cultures.
- Lenape Mythology: A story tells of how the Earth was created on the back of a giant turtle after a great flood.
Sea Turtle
- Hawaiian Mythology: Honu, the green sea turtle, is a symbol of good luck, endurance, and long life. It is also a guardian spirit (Aumakua) that protects the Hawaiian people.
Legends
Kumukahi the Turtle
- Hawaiian Legend: Kumukahi is a mythical turtle said to have guided the first Polynesians to Hawaii.
These stories reflect the importance of turtles in various cultures, often symbolizing longevity, stability, and creation.
