The answer is shrouded in myth. While the scorpion's sting is indeed deadly, it is also a perfect example of "sympathetic magic" -- wherever there is poison, there is also potential to heal. Interestingly enough, modern science is experimenting with scorpion poison to cure the body from autoimmune disease (when the body attacks itself) and also from cancer of the brain. Returning to myth, the deadly scorpion's sting also presents occasion for the gods above to show compassion, reminding us to let go of control and trust that by grace and loving kindness we are saved.
Indian lore suggests that if you run from fear of a scorpion, you will soon find yourself being devoured in the jaws of a poisonous snake. In the temple of Isis, the Egyptian goddess who is matron of nature and magic, scorpions littered the floor and yet the temple women became familiar with them and were able to walk barefoot, even sleep on the floor without fear or harm coming to them. Lastly, out of all creatures available to Gaia, goddess of the Earth, she chose the scorpion to protect her beloved children from harm, knowing well of its fierceness and bravery despite its small size.
From the power of myth, the yogi may be enchanted to meditate in the scorpion's pose. Here she may indeed experience the fear of being at the mercy of the scorpion's tail poised to strike, and will be required to learn and trust in her own path. But she will also become the scorpion, guarding what is most precious to her, and thus begins a sacred contemplation of what in her life is most worthy of honoring and protecting.
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