Signs and Symbols
What are signs and symbols?
A sign is an object that represent something and usually has one meaning
A symbol is a sign that operates on many level and has more than one meaning.
To think symbolically means to take something tangible (through our senses) and couple it together with something
that has no material or physical form, such as an emotion, sense of feeling.
Symbols are most powerful when their meaning is shared with others.
Characteristics of Symbols
1. Symbols may have more than one meaning – symbolic signs are much right than simple signs.
2. What symbols stand for is connected to what they are – a symbol’s meaning and physical appearance are
often connected. We discover meaning through symbols.
Catholic Symbols
Crucifix/cross – symbol of sacrifice, Jesus’ death, His suffering for our sins, His
resurrection.
Fish – this symbol is based on the initial letters of the Greek words for Jesus Christ. To understand this symbol,
you must know the meaning of the acronym. The Greek word for fish is ICHTHUS. This
is an acronym for Jesus.
Dove – symbol of the Holy Spirit. A dove is sometimes shown with an olive branch in its
mouth, which is a symbol of peace.
Lamb – a symbol of Christ. The white lamb is a symbol of innocence and purity. Lambs are often associated
with sacrifice in the Old Testament. Christ, the sacrificial lamb, died for the sins of humanity. The
lamb is sometimes portrayed with a flag, which is symbolic of Christ’s victory over death, in His
resurrection.
Water – a symbol for baptism, healing, forgiveness of sin, new life, the action of the Holy
Spirit.
Vision (to see) – a symbol of light, understanding of the truths of God, enlightenment.
Light – resurrection (from darkness to light – tomb to life), Jesus is the light of the world (the
guiding light).
Wine – blood of Christ in the Eucharist.
Bread – manna, body of Christ in the Eucharist.
The Sacred Heart – symbolic of Jesus’ love for all of humanity. The heart if pierced with a
cross and has thorns twisted around it. This represents the depth of Jesus’ love. He was
prepared to suffer and die for all people – His love is eternal.