Turtle Symbolism

There are two animals called turtles by the Diné (Navajo): Ch’ééh digháhii (the desert tortoise) and Tsisteeł (the Sonoran mud turtle). While the turtle doesn’t appear in the Diné emergence story, its hard shell is an important symbol of perseverance and protection. For this reason, the shell of young turtles can be used to provide protection for the Diné. The shell is also used to administer herbs and medicines in some ceremonies. In the Tsidił (stick game), a traditional gambling game, the large rock at the center of the circle of pebbles represents the back of the turtle, the center of the universe, and the earth on which we live. For the Diné and others in the southwest, the turtle also represents water, a critical resource in the desert. Like other reptiles, turtles should be treated with respect and care. The Diné are instructed not to observe turtles when they are eating, mating, or hatching.