What Do Red Dragonflies Mean? Everything You Need to Know

Depending on where you live, it can be rare to see a red dragonfly, and you might wonder what it means when you do. Red dragonflies generally have positive spiritual meanings, including good luck, new beginnings, and spiritual protection. In this article, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about the spiritual meanings of red dragonflies, including general symbolism, cultural meanings, and what it means to see a red dragonfly. Plus, learn some common types of red dragonflies to look out for.

What do red dragonflies mean spiritually?

Red dragonflies are generally a positive symbol that represent transformation, luck, protection, and passion. They also represent life after death and are often viewed as messages from angels or deceased loved ones. Seeing a red dragonfly is often a sign to embrace change and new beginnings.

Section 1 of 8:

Red Dragonfly Spiritual Symbolism

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Red dragonflies are often believed to appear at moments of death and loss. While this may sound like a bad omen, it’s actually a positive symbol. Many believe that dragonflies represent the spirits of deceased loved ones and that they’re a peaceful symbol of life after death.^{[1]
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In many cultures, both dragonflies and the color red are considered good luck. Because of this, many people believe a red dragonfly will bring luck, prosperity, and good fortune to those who see them or to anyone the dragonfly lands on.^{[2]
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Dragonflies often symbolize transformation and rebirth because of their life cycle; they start their lives underwater before emerging as beautiful flying insects.^{[3]
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Research source} Red dragonflies may represent positive change, self-realization, and spiritual transformation.
The color red is often associated with romance and intensity, so red dragonflies can also be a symbol of love.^{[4]
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Research source} They may indicate that love is on the way or that a romantic relationship is built to last. Red dragonflies can also be a sign that it’s time to make a move or start actively looking for love.
Dragonflies have a predatory nature and hunt other insects, so they’re often associated with protection.^{[5]
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Research source} The color red also sometimes symbolizes courage and warns of danger. Because of this, red dragonflies often represent security and strength.

Section 2 of 8:

Red Dragonfly Meanings for Love

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Many people believe that red dragonflies are a sign from your ancestors or spirit guides that love is on the way. Red is a color often associated with love and passion, so seeing a red dragonfly might mean that you’ll soon find love or that your current relationship is going to last.^{[6]
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It’s time to take a risk for love. Dragonflies only live for a short time, so they’re often a reminder that time is precious and if you want something, you should go for it. This applies to romance, as well. Don’t sit around waiting for love to find you—go out and find it. If there’s someone you have a crush on, ask them out. It can be nerve-racking, but the red dragonfly may be a sign that it’s time to take a leap of faith.^{[7]
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- If you’re not ready to ask someone out just yet, try striking up a conversation to get to know them as a person.
While the color red is often associated with love, it can also represent a warning. If you’re questioning a relationship and see a red dragonfly, it may be time to stop and consider if the relationship is worth pursuing. You may be attracted to the person, but do they make you feel secure? It may be time to think seriously about the kind of people you want in your life and to focus on those who make you feel happy and fulfilled.
If you’re in a rocky relationship or feel like your romantic chemistry has dwindled, seeing a red dragonfly could indicate that it’s time to take matters into your own hands. Don’t sit around hoping things will change; start doing romantic things for your partner. Try surprising them with a nice dinner date, flirting with them throughout the day, or reminding them how much you love them.

Section 3 of 8:

Red Dragonfly Meanings for Success

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In many cultures, the color red represents good luck. Seeing a red dragonfly is often a sign that you’ll receive good fortune in many aspects of your life, including your finances. Say yes to new opportunities, get out of your comfort zone, and focus on ways you can create more abundance in your life.^{[8]
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Protect your financial security. The color red is associated with the root chakra, which represents security.^{[9]
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Research source} Seeing a red dragonfly could be a reminder from the universe to protect your financial interests. Make sure you can truly afford to do something rather than carelessly throwing your money around.
- If money is something you struggle with, consider creating a budget to help.
Dragonflies have existed in some form for 300 million years, so ancient wisdom is imbued in their DNA.^{[10]
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US National Park Service
Agency responsible for the maintenance and promotion of national parks and monuments

Go to source} Red dragonflies often signify the importance of knowledge and wisdom, especially when it comes to careers and manifestation. Seeing one may mean the universe is encouraging you to learn as much as possible, especially in relation to your career field.
Dragonflies often symbolize transformation and new beginnings, so seeing one may mean it’s time for a change, especially in relation to your career. If you’ve been wanting a promotion, start taking steps to make that happen. If you’ve been considering changing careers, it may be time to start putting in applications.^{[11]
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Red dragonflies symbolize passion, so seeing one can mean it’s time to go after your goals.^{[12]
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Research source} If you’ve been wanting something but have been too afraid to go for it, now is the time to take the plunge. Start thinking of your dream as an actual possibility and do what you need to achieve it.

Section 4 of 8:

Red Dragonfly Meanings for Wellness

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Believe in your body’s ability to heal. In some Native American cultures, like the Hopi and the Pueblo, dragonflies are associated with transformation and healing.^{[13]
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Research source} The color red is also associated with blood, which is a vital part of our life force. Seeing a red dragonfly could be a reminder to listen to your body and trust its ancient wisdom.
- While your body can heal minor illnesses and injuries, be sure to see a medical professional for more serious issues.
Red is the color of primal energy, which is believed to be the energy that connects our bodies to the metaphysical and divine.^{[14]
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Research source} Seeing a red dragonfly could be a sign to connect with this energy through spiritual practices like yoga or meditation and by surrounding yourself with love and support so your body can thrive.
Red dragonflies symbolize warmth, fire, and blood, so seeing them could mean it’s time to focus on warm, healing energy. Try meditating and envisioning this energy coursing through your bloodstream to bring you vitality and rejuvenation. The idea is that this will make your body and mind more alert and energetic.

Section 5 of 8:

Red Dragonfly Meanings Around the World

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Dragonflies are often considered sacred in Japan, and they’re a symbol of courage, strength, and happiness. They’re frequently depicted in Japanese art and are considered a positive symbol. The samurai even used dragonfly designs on their armor as a symbol of victory.^{[15]
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In some Native American cultures, red dragonflies represent new beginnings. Different Native American cultures associate dragonflies with different things, but in most cases, the dragonfly is a positive symbol. It frequently represents transformation, protection, healing, and happiness.^{[16]
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University of California Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources
Extension program of the University of California system devoted to educating and improving local communities

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- For example, the Hopi and Pueblo cultures consider dragonflies to be a medicine animal, often associated with healing and transformation. Killing a dragonfly was very taboo in the Pueblo culture.
- In Plains Indian culture, dragonflies represent protection and invincibility, and they were frequently painted on war shirts to ward off danger.
- In some Native cultures, dragonflies also represent the souls of the dead. Visits from a dragonfly often meant that a deceased loved one’s soul was free.
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In China, red dragonflies represent good luck. Both dragonflies and the color red are associated with good luck in China, so red dragonflies are believed to symbolize good fortune and prosperity. This prosperity can be associated with all aspects of life, including relationships and careers.^{[17]
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- In the Chinese practice of feng shui, red is also associated with passion, fire, happiness, and new beginnings.
While the Bible doesn’t mention dragonflies specifically, Christians often associate them with renewal and transformation. Like dragonflies transform from a nymph to their adult form, Christians experience a spiritual transformation when they find faith in Jesus. The dragonfly’s beautiful wings also serve as a reminder of the beauty that comes from living in God’s truth and grace.

Section 6 of 8:

What It Means to See a Red Dragonfly

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Like butterflies, dragonflies go through a metamorphosis before achieving their final form in adulthood. Because of this, seeing a red dragonfly often symbolizes self-realization, spiritual growth, and transformation. It may be a sign to focus on your spirituality or that you’ll overcome any challenges you’ve been facing.^{[18]
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You’re protected by angels or spirit guides. Some people believe that dragonflies are messengers for angels or other spirits, as the insects are very receptive to divine energy. If a red dragonfly visits you, it may be a sign that an angel or the spirit of someone you love is present. This sign may mean that you’re spiritually protected and that good things will come your way.^{[19]
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- Red dragonflies may specifically represent someone who had a fiery personality or brought good fortune to your life.
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It’s time to look for strength in your faith. Because dragonflies are often associated with the divine, seeing one could be a sign to focus on your faith or spirituality. Remember that there are powers in the universe that can accomplish incredible things. Trust that you’re being led down the right path.^{[20]
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- For example, if you’re religious, seeing a red dragonfly may encourage you to pray more often.
The root chakra is the first of the 7 main energy chakras in the body, located at the base of the spine. It is associated with the color red and represents energy, security, and good health. If you believe in chakras, seeing a red dragonfly may indicate that you need to balance or open the root chakra so you feel grounded and in-tune with the world around you.^{[21]
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Section 7 of 8:

What does a red dragonfly tattoo mean?

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A red dragonfly tattoo typically holds the same meanings as seeing a red dragonfly: transformation, good luck, courage, or love. Specifically, red dragonfly tattoos can represent a transformation from emotional struggles to a place of freedom. Those with a dragonfly tattoo may also choose their own personal meaning for the design, or it may have no specific meaning at all.

Section 8 of 8:

Types of Red Dragonflies

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Red dragonflies may seem rare, but there are several species. You may not see red dragonflies as often as other colors, but they aren’t entirely rare. Depending on where you live, they may actually be quite common. They’re found all over the world, including parts of Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. Here are some common species:
- Desert Firetail
- Neon skimmer
- Roseate skimmer
- Red-tailed pennant
- Cardinal Meadowhawk
- Scarlet basker
- Scarlet skimmer
- Ruby meadowhawk
- Cherry-faced meadowhawk
- Red saddlebag