Symbols have been used since ancient times to communicate various meanings, abstract ideas and concepts. They can be found in every corner of the globe.
Every culture and religion have relied on symbols to express various ideas, and oftentimes, the same symbol can have different meanings depending on the context and era it’s viewed within. For example, a cross can be a mathematical symbol, but it can also represent medicine or Christianity, which is why context is paramount when decoding symbols.
What’s most interesting about symbols is that a symbol’s meaning isn’t inherent but is learned culturally. Take the Swastika – an ancient Eastern religious symbol tainted by Nazi Germans. Today, it’s viewed as both a symbol of hate and a symbol of protection, proof that symbols are dynamic, changing with time and context.
Symbols continue to be everywhere in modern society, some of them ancient and others repurposed. They can be found in architecture, jewelry, fashion, literature, politics and businesses. Understanding the meanings of symbols is like learning a new language. They convey whole ideas, conversations, values and philosophies. Our series of articles on ancient symbols explore the origins and importance of popular symbols, while highlighting their symbolism and modern relevance.
For decades, vampires have been a captivating presence in our stories, stirring feelings of awe and dread. At the heart of these tales lie the symbols that paint a vivid picture of these creatures ...
Gnome statues must be history’s most bizarre garden accessories. These little statues have been around for centuries in one form or another and have a rich heritage in European gardens. Let’s look ...
Christmas isn't just about gifts and feasts; it's adorned with symbols that carry rich stories and traditions. From twinkling lights to the evergreen tree, each symbol holds a special meaning. ...
Thanksgiving is more than just a time to feast; it's steeped in symbolism that captures the essence of gratitude and togetherness. From the iconic turkey to the cornucopia and even the pumpkin ...
One of the earliest symbols of Christianity, the “ichthys” or “ichthus” consists of two intersecting arcs, creating a fish shape. However, the fish symbol is believed to have been used in earlier ...
One of the most common elements in Greek and Roman art, the meander symbol is a linear geometric pattern commonly used as a decorative band on pottery, mosaic floors, sculptures, and buildings. It ...
Before Reiki became a global phenomenon, it was a healing practice established by Dr. Mikao Usui. Usui Reiki, the original Reiki form, emphasizes personal spiritual growth and self-treatment, ...
From hurricanes to flowers and pinecones, spiral patterns are abundant in nature. One of these spirals is the Golden Spiral, thought to be a sort of code that governs the architecture of the ...
In the mystical world of numerology, 1133 stands out as a beacon of creativity, new beginnings, spiritual growth, and manifestation. Its presence in our lives serves as an inspiring message from ...
At first glance, scaly brown pinecones hardly seem very important or significant. Most people think of them as nothing more than decorative objects for festive occasions. But in reality, pinecones ...
Angel number 8888 is a positive message from your guardian angels, promising good things and rewards. If you keep encountering 8888 in everyday places like phone numbers, bills, or car plates, ...
In a world of countless objects, there are five unique shapes that are so special, they’ve captivated the human imagination for thousands of years. These shapes share similar properties and are ...
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