I is For Insect–Praying Mantis

My favorite insect. Pictured below is one of 2,000 species in the mantis order of insects. Looks like a little alien. Praying mantis can be found in all parts of the world with mild winters and sufficient vegetation during the late spring to late summer months.

The praying mantis is the oldest symbol of God. For the Khoi (African Bushmen), it’s a manifestation of God come to earth: “the voice of the infinite in the small,” a divine messenger. “Mantis” is the Greek word for “prophet” or “seer,” a being with spiritual or mystical powers. In the Arabic and Turkish cultures a mantis points pilgrims to Mecca, the holiest site in the Islamic world. In France, it’s believed that if you are lost, the mantis points the way home. “Follow Mantis” means putting that core aspect of yourself, your foundation of Spirit, at the helm and let it direct your intellect and ultimately your life.