The turtle was revered as secret and sacred symbolism: four legs = four elements and four directions; underside = Earth; dome shell = vault of the Heavens—so it carries the Universe. Linked in Hindu iconography to Vishnu, emerging from creation waters carrying Earth on his back; in Native American belief the World Tree grows from the turtle’s back. In alchemy, it represents Prima Materia/Massa Confusa, the first stage transforming matter to spirit.