Acorn
Acorns hold signifigance as a Scandanavian and Celitc symbol for life, fertility, and
immortality. For this reason it is often sacred to the god Thor, who is ruler of fire and fertility. When it is carried on
the person, it can often preserve youthfulness. Commonly believed to be androgynous. Also acts as the symbol for
strength. The acorn is also the seed of the OAK tree.
Adam and Eve
They are the Biblical progenitors of the human race, the original couple, and are often associated
with their "Fall." They succumbed to the serpent and ate the forbidden fruit of the TREE of Knowledge, thus
becoming a symbol for the loss of immortality through violation. "It is of critical importance for symbology, that
Adam and Eve prefigure all of the humans that descend from them both in their free will and in their need for
salvation after their sinful deviation from God's plan" (Bieder man, 3).
Adam -- Name is derived from 'earth' and can be thought of as representative of universal power. Body created
from 8 directions: water - blood, stones - bones, sun - eye, earth - flesh, roots - ligaments, wind - spirit, clouds thoughts, fire - warmth. Is the name giver to all things. Is the father of all kings, who become his direct
descendants.
Eve -- Appears as the excision of Adam, often created from the rib closest to his heart. Plays the role of the
persuader in the fall, as she eats the APPLE first and then tells Adam to do the same. Can be thought of as the first
and easiest to fall, but in Milton is often thought of as the more tricked. Portrait of absolute beauty and innocence.
Mother of all things.
Anchor
Can mean hope, steadfastness, salvation, stability, and/or tranquility. In sea-faring nations,
the anchor is a symbol of good luck, of safety, and of security, and thus of trust and confidence. In the early
Christian era, the anchor was used as a form of the CROSS, because of the physical resemblance. Often seen as
SERPENT twined, with the crescent moon symbolizing female, vulva and the mast representing male, around which
the serpent, fertility and life, is wrapped.
Angels
Angels are a manifestation of the traditional belief that there are spiritual creatures
superior to man. "Creation was thought of as a ladder, with its top rung occupied by angels, immaterial beings
made of pure spirit, whereas man consisted of both matter and spirit, a body and a soul"; (Julien, 15). They are the
messengers of God, liasons between heaven and Earth, they are enlightenment. Angelic symbols include: flaming
swords, trumpets, sceptres, musical instruments, lilies. Gothic art tends to express the protective and sublime
aspects of the angel, while the Romanesque stresses its other-worldly nature.
Ant
The ant is consistently a symbol of diligence and industriousness. In Indian myth, however, they show the fragility
of all living creatures. Often the ant is also associated with prudence and forethought, as even though they are not
strong they gather food for winter. The multiplicity surrounding ants gives it unfavorable symbolism, sometimes
compared with swarming humanity, and a sudden great increase in ants can spell war.
Ape
Apes are almost universally negative images in Western culture, although they were often
revered in the Indian, Egyptian, and Chinese traditions. In Christian symbology, however, they have long been
considered a symbol of malice and physical ugliness, as a pejoritive epithet dating back to the ancient world. An
ape with an APPLE in its mouth typically depicts the fall. They stand for uninhibited, filthy humans; in dreams, they
are "that which is like the human without being human but which seeks to attain humanity" (Biederman, 16). With
relation to humans, they can represent mimicry and also stages of development towards man. In psychology, they
are the symbols of insecurity and doubt about one's own position or role.
Apple
It is a complex symbol, with a variety of meanings and incorporated in a variety of contexts. It can mean love,
knowledge, wisdom, joy, death, and/or luxury. The apple could be an erotic association with a woman's BREASTS,
with the core sliced in half representing the vulva. In Greek mythology, the apple appears repeatedly; Hera
received an apple as a symbol of fertility upon her engagement to Zeus. The apple of the Garden of Eden, is the
symbol of temptation and of original sin. In secular terms, the apple functions as a symbol for the cosmos or
totality, due to its nearly perfect spherical shape.
Arch
The arch can be construed as the vault of the SKY. Various cultures link the arch to victory; Rome and France (L'arc
de Triomphe) being two of the most prominent. Passing through an arch is the symbolic act of rebirth, of leaving
the old behind and entering the new. They often mark access into holy places. Adopted by the Muslims as an
emblem of faith. It also has a link to heaven, sanctuary and a secret place.
Arrow
The arrow is a highly phallic image, evoking notions of piercing, penetrating masculinity, becoming the
predominant symbol of the holy Father and of fathers in general. Related to this are the arrows of Cupid, the sharp
ones of gold represent love, and the blunt ones of lead represent the dispelling of love. It is also associated with
the rays of the sun, and with hunting. As the weapon of Apollo, it signifies the light of supreme power. Often
paired with the HEART, and when it pierces through it is thought of as a symbol of conjunction. Has many other
combinations: arrow with cross (affliction), horse-shoe (androgyne), fire (Christ).
Ass
This beast of burden is the epitome of humility, patience, and stupidity. It is obstinant yet persistent, and often
represents the poor. In Christian tradition, the ass had many meanings, among them are: the naitivity and Satan. In
dreams, the ass is usually a messenger of death or as the destroyer of a life-span.
Axe
The axe is one of the oldest tools developed by humans; since the Neolithic age, it has been a symbol of battle and
work. All ancient traditions associated the axe with lightning, water, and fertility, and attributed to it the power of
making or stopping rain. It is a symbol of spiritual penetration and fertilization, as it opens the ground. The twinbladed axe is often associated with the Hindu thunderbolt, so it is a symbol of celestial illumination. Related to the
ox because of its shape, and can be a general talisman of strength.
Bat
It has qualities of both the bird and the mouse, rendering this animal a symbol of ANDROGYNE; it also has strong
associations with darkness and obscurity, as a creature of the night. In Christian terms, the bat is viewed as "the
bird of the devil" ( Cooper, 18), an incarnation of the Prince of Darkness. Although harmless, their close association
with the blood-sucking vampire has given bats a terrifying connotation; they are a highly prevalent symbol in
Western literature.
High relation to black magic and witchcraft because it is visible at the critical period when day turns to night. Can
pose as a symbol for terror, misfortune and even death - In Dante, Satan has bat's wings in 'deepest freezing Hell'.
Supposedly when they fly upwards and then come down again swiftly, the witches' hour is upon.
It is seen by some as a contradictory symbol, emblematic of happiness and long life in China while possessing a
meaning not far removed from that of the dragon and the hermaphrodite in Western ALCHEMY.
The bat is a symbol for death, superstition, fear, night, and cult and it is often linked to witchcraft and occults in the
folktales form the West. On the contrary, the Chinese believe that it is a sign of happiness and good fortune and the
Africans and ancient Greece believe it is a symbol of articulacy.
The bat symbol is considered to be the most sinister and frightening of all the symbols. It is regarded as a sign of
darkness and death due to the Western myths which tends to associate it with un-cleanliness. Due to these
legends, the bat has been portrayed by the Western civilization as a form of devil and vampire particularly by Bram
Stoker (1897) in his book “Dracula”. It brought out the bat to represent the evil creature.
Even though some of these myths may be based on truth, others may not because most bats feed only on fruits
and bugs but a few others feed on blood. Those that feed on blood drink the blood of cows and because they have
an anticoagulant in their saliva, they can feed of these cows for about 20-30 minutes. Those that feed on blood are
around three species of about 900 bat species around the world the rest that feed on fruits and bugs are not
frightening after all. On the other hand, they are regarded as evil because they shun daylights and thus are night
creatures that even tend to avoid bright moonlight.
Bat has a surprising history because in the early Christian art, angels were depicted as having birdlike wings while
the demons were having bat like wings similarly in the writings of St. Paul, women’s hair were said to attract
demons and that is why they were supposed to be covered when they were in church. This lead to a tradition that
allowed women to cover their hair by wearing hats to church and also because they believed that bats could fly
directly into the hair. These legends therefore will associate a bat tattoo with images of night creatures,
bloodsuckers and other scary interpretations according to one’s culture.
On the contrary, when you come from China things would be different because the bat is seen here as a symbol of
good fortune and happiness. Any image which contains five bats arranged in any pattern would represent these
five types of happiness: love, love of virtue, riches, long life, happy death and peace. But the Native American
legends tends to dispute this because they associate the bat with death because it flies at night and as a sign of
rebirth because these bats always sleep with heads down. The face down act is associated to the position of the
baby before birth. In the society of Shamans, the bat represents the desire to die a ritual death before one is able
to develop into a new being. It is therefore an animal which represented initiations.
Bear
The bear is a symbol for strength, courage and tenacity. The bear also represent a gentle friendship and a docile
follower in camouflage but its love for honey adds up an amusing element in the symbol of power and dignity.
Being a unique animal and off wide rage, bear symbol is extremely popular in legends of many cultures around the
world including those of Asian myths, North American and European. The animal is an omnivorous creature like
human beings because it eats roots, nuts, honey, berries, bird’s eggs and grasses. The bear hunts for fish and both
small and large game. The bear occupies the same ecological niche with man and competed for shelter in caves
making the bear similar with the early man. The similarity also comes because the bears tend to stand on their
hind legs like man when aggressive or when threatened.
The early man started identifying with the bear for several reasons because from the early times when men were
hunters and gatherers, they respected and feared the bear and at times even worshiped it because despite being a
predator, it had power, strength and was furious. In many indigenous stories, the animal was seen as a
transformed human that was a close intimate of humans. The Shamans and animist believe that bear is a powerful
totem or spirit and when seen in people’s dreams, the animals are seen to be the guides from the spirits. People
tend to emulate the virtue of the female bear because it is admirable seeing her protect her cub and their claws
and teeth are used as amulets, decorations and talismans so as to stir up the powers of the bear. Bear symbols and
tattoos also tend to serve similar functions.
In addition to this, bear is a symbol of wisdom for the Lakota Sioux, spirit keeper for the Chippewa and
introspection and strength. The bear has been associated with ferocity, diplomacy and healing powers. The Haida
associate bear to an elder kinsman and when killed it is believed to be a high ranking guest. Many believe that as a
wise creature, it gains wisdom through its winter incubation and it bears a symbol of maternal protection. It is still
seen as a great warrior and the male is associated with King Arthur, it symbolizes great power under control, with
claws significantly displayed on crests or on shields.
The bear is a creature of contrasts, as it possesses enormous strenth and yet generally thrives on fruit and honey.
Because of their habit of hibernation during winter months, bears can stand for ressurection. It was the emblem
for the kingdoms of Persia and Russia. For the Celts, it is a symbol of the warrior, and in Christian symbolism we
encounter the fable of the she-bear who gives birth to shapeless offspring and must lick them to give them form.
Similarly, we are ignorant creatures who find our way only through spiritual knowledge.
In Jungian psychology, the bear represents danger caused by the uncontrollable contents of the unconscious, and
with this is often associated as an attribute of the man who is cruel and crude. The word 'berserk' most likely
means 'bear-coat' and refers to a Norse warrior who morphs into a furious bear.
Bee
"Few creatures are as important in symbology as this insect and the life of its colonies. Virtually
as soon as there were humans they began gathering wild honey. The bee has a certain association with
professional advancement, [but] otherwise the bee was less the symbol of diligence than of a suitor with an eager
fondness for the flower of womanhood" (Biederman, 35). In dreams, the bee represents approaching death: one's
soul is buzzing off. They have often been viewed as brave, industrious, clean , politically harmonious, and
aesthetically gifted; these qualities provide extensive fodder for symbolic representation. The bee represents
perfect community, and although it is weak in body, it is strong in spirit and wisdom. "In Christian tradition , [the
bee] is the emblem of Christ, of his forgiveness (through analogy with the sweetness of his honey), with his justice
(through its sting), and Christian virtues (because of the exemplary way worker bees behave towards their queen"
(Julien, 35).
In Egyptian culture, associated with royal hierarchy because of their monarchic organization, industry, creative
activity and wealth. In Paradise they were the 'little winged servents of God' only changing to brown after the fall,
and, with EAGLES are the only animals that have access to heaven. They can detect inchastity, and a test of a girl's
virginity is to throw her to the bees and see if they attack her.
Bell
Bells are commonly representative of joy and freedom, as with the American Liberty Bell. The shape of the bell is
closely related to the vault of HEAVEN. A bell's pendulous motion can represent the extremes of good and evil;
death and immortality. They are also integral to rituals of exorcism and excommunication, and they are a
widspread mechanism for summoning (often even a call of Christ). Its sound is a symbol of creative power, but can
also be a call to arms. Is also phallic in some senses, a bell and handle = a vulva and a phallus, the same with a bell
and a tongue. Leads to embodiment of virginity, unmarried women adorn themselves with bells.
Birds
In most traditions, birds have a predominantly positive connotation. Said St. Hildegard of
Bingen in her Liber de Subtilitatum, "Birds symbolize the power that helps people to speak reflectively and leads
them to think out many things in advance before they take action. Just as birds are lifted up into the air by their
FEATHERS and can remain wherever they wish, the soul in the body is elevated by thought and spreads its wings
everywhere." They represent the human desire to escape gravity, to reach the level of the angel. The bird is often
the disembodied human soul, free of its physical constrictions. In Egypt, birds with human heads are dominant
characters and they are seen leaving the mouths of the dying.
In FAIRY TALES, those who understand the language of the bird are often able to attain special knowledge, and
people are often transformed into birds. They are thought and imagination, transcendence and divinity, freedom
from materialism. May also stand for the metamorphosis of a lover. When connected with the TREE, shares
something of the Phoenix: the male tree, in which the burning female nests. Natural enemies with the SERPENT
and the tortoise (haste versus slowness). Flocks of birds may be negative.
Bird Symbol
Bird is a symbol of human soul and it represents goodness, joy, wisdom and intelligence. For other groups like the
Western art it symbolizes air and touch and throughout the life time, the bird flight is the symbol our soul
journeying to the future. Additionally birds on flight represent the light of the spirit for hope, beauty and
transcendence.
Birds are powerful symbol metaphors for human moods and a range of emotions and beauty. The gentle Dove
represents a feeling of devotion and divine, the crow refers to the nagging old woman, the flirtatious Partridge
while the proud Cockerel represents amorous gentlemen. The Rooster represents a countries heritage, the vulture
represents an extremely masculine symbol of a man who runs after all girls, the conjugal bliss are associated with
mates for life, the little Mexican parrot for affection and are called love birds while others are associated with the
feminine. In rural Africa the hen is associated to a motherly woman while in Britain, the chick and the birds are
synonyms for girlfriend.
Parrots are in most cases featured in Nautical Tattooing while swallows and bluebirds are associated with the sea
and sailors. The bird’s beaks and feathers and all their wings have provided human imagination symbols that stand
as history and show the human journey from birth until his soul leaves the earth to the ancestral lands. Egyptians
god Atum chose a bird to represent the moment of creation while birds of prey were symbols of victorious
conquest for the Vikings and Goths. Ravens were seen as wise and clever by the Odin and Norse Gods and ravens
and crows were seen as tricksters, shape-shifters and are associated with Shamans and Medicine Men in North
America. Other people from Hilda of the Pacific Northwest belong to the Eagle or the Raven Clan since Raven is
seen as the creator of the world since it stole the sun from where it was hidden and allowed it to shine.
The Bible referred to the Rooster because it has the habit of calling his flock to eat before he eats, the crane is with
happiness in China, the Swallow, often known as the Bluebird is known for a good omen, hope and for sailors it is a
sign of close land while the Owl is associated with all magical and mysterious and mysterious things because it is a
feared night hunter, its unique ability to fly silently and see and hear well in the dark.
Black
Black represents a lack of color, the primordial void, emptiness. It can also mean sorrow or mourning, in the
Christian tradition of wearing black to funerals. In this respect it can also symbolize death. Black is also linked to
witchcraft (Black Magic), evil, and the unknown, as the predominant color worn by "evil witches" in colonial
America. The stock market crash of 1929, dubbed "Black Tuesday" further links the color with loss, depression, and
despair.
Blood
Blood globally represents life itself, as the element of divine life that functions within the human body. It is
repeatedly referred to as having magic powers and as the only food for the supernatural beings, and it is also
associated with "a variety of non-rational notions, includ[ing] blood brotherhood, blood vengeance, blood baptism.
Since it corresponds so readily with the color red, it represents the end of a series which begins with sunlight
(yellow) and follows intermediately with vegetable life (green). Closely tied with passion, but also with death, war,
sacrifice (specifically sheep, hog, bull and man) and the warding off of malicious powers -- 'blood has flowed, the
danger is past' (Arabic saying). Close ties to guilt, especially as bloodstains.
In Hitler's vocabulary, blood meant "race," heritage, genetic information. In the classical theory of procreation,
menstrual blood is one of the two components from which new life comes about..."(Biederman, 43). Fertility.
Blood and WINE are interchangeable symbols; in Chinese symbolism, blood and WATER are associated as
complementaries, as THE YIN AND THE YANG. The term cold blood refers to unfeeling. When used in reference to
Christ, represents atoning for all humanity -- 'See, see where Christ's blood streams in the firmament!' (Marlowe,
Doctor Faustus, 16).
Blue
Blue is the color most often associated with issues of the spirit and intellect. It is the color of SKY and HEAVEN, also
having strong connections with nearly all forms of WATER; for this reason it can have feminine, cool, and reflective
qualities. Its link to the sky also connotes eternity and immensity, time and space. Blue may be truth (no clouds to
hide it) and transparency; it is linked to loyalty, fidelity, constancy, and chastity. Many babies are born with blue
eyes, thus innocence and purity can be attributed to the color.
With relation to MOON, can represent tender love, passive qualities, and deep wisdom. Also witchcraft; when
lights burn blue there are ghosts about. According to Jung, is the opposite of red, enlarges a room but adds
coldness.
Boat
The boat represents a journey, a crossing, adventure, and exploration. It is also the
femininity and "sheltering aspect of the Great Mother" (Cooper, 1978). Reference in literature as the cradle
rediscovered (the mother's womb).
Crossing the SEA can be viewed as being symbolic of making the journey across life; therefore, a boat can be seen
as that which enables us to make such a journey, whether it be faith, education, desire, curiosity, or any other such
motivation. In a general sense, a vehicle.
Bones
They are the last earthly traces of the dead, and seem to last forever: bones symbolize the
indestructible life (it represents ressurection in Jewish tradition), yet also may represent mortality and the
transitory. Flesh and bones can symbolize the earth. In general speech, can connote lack of flattery or the truth.
In William Blake it refers to the past, tradition that often has to be broken. In T.S. Eliot, thoughts of something
beyond the flesh, historical knowledge or memory.
Book
The book is the material incarnation of knowledge and wisdom. It contains the central
doctrine of nearly every existing religion: in holy scriptures, it contains the Word, the
divine message. It is the container of intellect; open books depict the book of life,
learning, and the spirit of wisdom. It is truth and mercy. Closed book is in the hands of
God, Divine Mystery. One of the eight Chinese emblems with the power to ward off
evil spirits. Also related to weaving.
Closely tied to symbol of SWORD, specifically related to a double-edge sword in the mouth showing the book is
written 'inside and outside', or esoteric and exoteric knowledge.
Bridge
The bridge is inherently symbolic of communication and union, whether it be between
heaven and earth or two distinct realms. For this reason it can be seen as the connection between God and Man. It
may be the passage to reality, or merely a symbol for travel and crossing. In dreams, a bridge symbolizes the
passage from one state to another, higher one, like an ascension; it is the end of one cycle and the beginning of
another. In many cultures it is the link between what can be perceived and what is beyond perception, or at least a
change or desire for change. Can be a test to see who is brave (who will cross).
Brown
Brown is often associated with the EARTH. In a Christian context, it can mean spiritual death, or a segregation or
�death� to the world because some groups of monks, friars, etc... wear brown. Hindu belief links this color to
the northern region. Often related to autumn, melancholy. As a Victorian symbol, shows lack of emotion. Sorrow,
barrenness. Characteristics of those inclined to brown are calmness, passivity, conservative, dependable, practical
and earthly.
Bull
The bull is usually related, in its solar sense, to the masculine, strength, the SUN, and
KINGLY power. Horns are seen as the sun-bow, shooting its ray-arrows. Is a God to a great many ancient cultures.
But the bull can also be a lunar symbol, when ridden by a MOON goddess. In this context the bull usually has the
meaning of the taming of masculine and animal nature. Its horn, in this case, are seen as a moon-shape. It is
connected with humidity and rain. In Egypt, it is a passive power as opposed to the active LION. Together with the
solar connotation, represents earth and the underworld, fertility and reincarnation, often connected with the
wandering souls of the dead.
In general, shows fecundity, protector qualities, sacrifice, chastity and patience. Many of its body parts, especially
the tail, foot and hide, are also symbolic of special powers, fertility and land respectively. In the zodiac, the sign of
Taurus represents the sun and the spring.
Bull Symbol
The bull symbolizes fighting ability and male fertility while the symbol of the bull stands for valor and magnanimity
ever since the prehistoric times.
The bull symbol represents heaven in Babylonia and Syria with the god of storm riding on its back. In Egypt it is a
symbol of royalty and is sacrificed in religious rituals for millennia, associated with the sun, fire, resurrection, earth,
water, night and even death. Since its blood is used in sacrifices, it is associated with the death of winter and the
return of spring; they are emblems of death, tyranny, ferocity, brutality, stubbornness, lust, and the Devil. The
jumping of man over bulls shows the mans superiority over animals as is seen in Ancient Crete but on the contrary
leading a bull to the arena sometimes symbolizes when Christ was led to the cross.
Since the bull has different colors, black bulls were associated with death as in Egypt where god Osiris' body was
borne on the back of a black bull while In Indonesia and India bodies of princes were cremated in coffins baring
shapes of bulls. The wild nature of the bulls, its roar, the windy breath and the sound of his hooves were
associated to tempests, thunder, wind and ocean respectively. This made them be seen as sea gods like Poseidon,
Adad, Thor, and Ishkur who were depicted as riding bulls.
Bull symbolizes strength and fertility in Hinduism. The cow here represents a fruitful earth while the bull is the
fertile sky. The Rig-Veda associated the bull to a heavenly creature that fertilized the earth with his sperm. This bull
was known as bull Rudra. They called their god Agni mighty bull while the bull-god Vrishabha was known to be
responsible for the spinning of the cosmic wheel. The Nandi bull symbolizes sexual energy when ridden by Shiva
but this energy is transformed at times to spiritual energy. In India Shiva's white bull stands for cosmic order,
strength and justice. In some cultures the violent earthquakes are caused since celestial bull is believed to carry
the world upon its horns and at times gets rowdy.
Butterfly
Butterfly Symbol
Butterfly symbol represents the soul and resurrection in several parts of the world. The butterfly in itself represents
life and its cycle.
The butterfly has a short life cycle and thus many ancient peoples saw it as representative of the impermanent. Its
physical beauty and its nature of moving from flower to flower seeking nectar has made people to associate it with
unstable and superficial aspects of the human soul. Butterfly is looked as a symbol of transformation, regeneration
and flight because human souls were carried by the Butterfly from earth to heaven.
In Minoan Crete and Toltec Mexico butterflies personified deities and therefore the deities were regarded as
symbols of beauty, love, flowers, and the spirits of the dead. The group form Popolucas sported the Butterfly as a
motif on their breastplates while in Rome it was the personal symbol of The Roman Emperor, Augustus. In Japan,
after flying from the cocoon and spreading its brand new wings it is symbol of young girls which represents
emerging beauty and grace, the change is regarded as joyful and not traumatic. Their favorite symbol is that of
warlords.
In its metamorphosis from the common, colorless caterpillar to the exquisite winged
creature of delicate beauty, the butterfly has become a metaphor for transformation and hope; across cultures, it
has become a symbol for rebirth and resurrection, for the triumph of the spirit and the soul over the physical
prison, the material world. Among the ancients, is an emblem of the soul and of unconscious attraction towards
light. It is the soul as the opposite of the worm. In Western culture, the butterfly represents lightness and
fickleness. Note Owen Warland's spiritual progression in Nathaniel Hawthorne's Artist of the Beautiful as it
parallels the development of the butterfly which he struggles to mechanically recreate. In China, secondary
meanings of joy and bliss. Is very closely related to love, especially with wings and when being burned in Cupid's
hand that is not holding the bow. Wantonness, especially in Shakespeare. In Yeats, the opposite of the hawk,
intuition as opposed to logic.
Candle
The candle symbolizes light in the darkness of life especially individual life, illlumination; it is the
symbol of holy illumination of the spirit of truth. Lit in times of death, they signify the light in the next world, and
they represent Christ as the light. Purification and cleansing closely related. Festive in nature; in Judaism the
holiday Hanukah is the 'Festival of Lights', and a candle is lit for each of the 8 nights. Used to ward off evil spirits,
life safe as long as candle burns; in relation to Halloween, candles were carried from eleven til midnight, if the
candle went out it was an evil omen, if it didn't it meant one year free from witchcraft.
Its components also have great meaning: wax - pure flesh or humanity, wick - soul, light - love, divinity, flame godhead, fire - obedience, heat - humility.
Cat Symbol
Cat is a symbol for spiritual power, freedom, love of liberty and bad luck in Japan. On the contrary the black cat is
linked to evil cunning in the Celtic world and with harmful djins in Islamic world.
A cat is an independent, recovers quickly and has freedom of thought. The cat is famed for agility for having nine
lives. It has appeared in folklores as a symbol of good and bad luck and has been revered as sacred animal, god and
at times despised as an agent of evil. In Ancient Egypt it represents a powerful animal totem and a feminine
principle where it stands for fertility, motherhood is also associated with the Moon. In the Book of the Dead it is a
defeater of the evil Apep but many Egyptian deities were depicted as cats and therefore exporting the animal was
forbidden and its killing was punishable by death.
In Thailand, the 'Siamese' cat was the sacred temple cat and with its keen senses of sight, smell, hearing and touch,
the cat is a hunting animal that is why it was accepted by man as a symbol of beauty and grace and even as a
protector of the household where it gets rid of the popular disease carrying rodents. In Europe, the cat is honored
as an exalted soul and at other times it is associated with witches and the occult (especially the black cat). It is
therefore seen as a symbol of superstition and bad luck. For sailors it was a symbol of good luck. The British on the
other hand during the World Wars used the cat because it is highly sensitive to radar system, it could detect
poisonous gas before humans could.
Chain
Chains are the physical constraints of bondage and slavery; it is not surprising, therefore,
that they have naturally come to symbolize these concepts. Chains also represent communication and marriage, a
powerful and lasting unity between two entities. Of power and spirituality, Louis XI of France - "thou are so
ferocious in battle that thou must be chained up, for I do not wish to lose thee lest I need thy help once more." In
Egypt, can also stand for dual streams, involution and evolution, of the universe. In Greek mythology, can be a
ladder to heaven, Zeus pulls it up. Chain of gold shows merit.
Circle
The circle is a universal symbol with extensive meaning. It represents the notions of totality, wholeness, original
perfection, the Self, the infinite, eternity, timelessness, all cyclic movement, God ('God is a circle whose centre is
everywhere and whose circumference is nowhere' (Hermes Trismegistus)). As the sun, it is masculine power; as the
soul and as encircling waters, it is the feminine maternal principle. "It implies an idea of movement, and symbolizes
the cycle of time, the per petual motion of everything that moves, the planets' journey around the sun (the circle
of the zodiac), the great rhythm of the universe. The circle is also zero in our system of numbering, and symbolizes
potential, or the embryo. It has a magical value as a protective agent, ... and indicates the end of the process of
individuation, of striving towards a psychic wholeness and self-realization" (Julien, 71).
With the number ten, symbolizes heaven and perfection as well as eternity. In Jung, the antithesis of the square
(lowest state of man who has not achieved inner perfection), standing for the ultimate state of Oneness, with
octagon in between. Circle of Necessity: birth, growth, decline, death. Defense against chaos, formlessness.
Related to YIN YANG.
Crab
Crabs can be most closely related to the zodiacal sign of Cancer and the shortening of days
after the peak of summer, thus related to death with the Summer-solstice and the death of the Sun-hero through
Cancer. The movement of the SUN (what causes the diminution of daylight) connects the crab with dishonesty and
unreliability. Most crabs, being crustaceans, have hard shells like ARMOR. Crabs are found either on land or in
WATER, suggesting a dual nature that crabs may represent. Associatied with bad-temperedness, aggressiveness.
Claws gripping, especially in dreams related to lobster, means sexual relations one wants to be free from. Also in
dreams, morally repressed sex, the orgasm, a gripping sensation in the abdomen.
Cross
"It is a world centre and therefore a point of communication between heaven and earth and a
cosmic axis, thus sharing the symbolism of the cosmic tree, mountain, etc. The cross represents the Tree of Life
and the Tree of Nourishment; it is also a symbol of universal, archetypal man, capable of infinite and harmonious
expansion on both the horizontal and vertical planes; the vertical line is the celestial, spiritual and intellectual,
positive, active and male, while the horizontal is the earthly, rational, passive, and negative and female, the whole
cross forming the primordial ANDROGYNE. [In Christian terms], it is the salvation through Christ's sacrifice;
redemption; atonement; suffering; faith. The cross also signifies acceptance of death or suffering and sacrifice"
(Cooper, 46). Crossroads are often thought of as symbolizing points of intersection between the paths of living and
the dead;and as a framework for coordinates, the cross gives people the ability to orient themselves within space
and time. Acts as an amulet against danger, weapon against monster, even devil.
Many crosses besides the normally thought of Christian one: Simple (orientation on a plane surface), St. Andrew's
(union of the Upper and Lower worlds), Arrow-head (centrifugal/away from the center forces), doubled (parallel
forces), Maltese (centripetal forces), Templars (forces around a circumference), Teutonic (four triangles,
centripetal tendency), Ovals (continuous movement), Knobbed extremeties (four Cardinal Points of space).
Dog
The dog is the first domesticated animal, and is symbolically associated with loyalty and
vigilance, often acting as guardian and protector. Dogs are portrayed as guides and companions, hence the notion
of "man's best friend." Often associated with art and cunning, as it can be trained to do the greatest variety of
jobs.
While rarely negative symbols, they do have some unfavorable characteristics. Can be a depraved animal, cursed
their enemies. 'Sick as a dog' came from the notion that they return to their vomit. Hated (with a few exceptions)
at the end of the Bible: 'dogs, and sorcery, and whoremongers' outside New Jerusalem. Also a scavenger, envy,
flattery, fury, war, greed, pitiless, bragging and folly. Shakespeare often linked them negatively with kites.
Dog Symbol
Dog is a symbol for companion and guardian. In a positive light they are a symbol of loyal, faithful, honesty and
willing to fight injustice.
The dog is seen as a powerful symbol of loyalty, intelligence and vigilance. As a descendant from the Asiatic Wolf
man’s relationships with dogs goes back over 40,000 years and then it was the 11th sign of the Zodiac where it
represented symbols both positive and negative. In some ancient civilizations the Dog was a symbol of the
underworld. In Egypt, the guardian of the dead was Anubis who was a dog-headed god. The jackal portrayed as
black was the symbol of both death and regeneration.
The Dog’s quality made it associated to a guardian and therefore the protector of souls that entered the
underworld. Its ability see well in the dark makes it a symbol of instinctive knowledge and the Greeks, North
American Indians and Romans were said to associate Anubis with a star (Sirius) and called it a dog star.
Additionally, in ancient Mexico, the dog was buried with human sacrifice so that it could guide it to the hereafter
while in ancient Scottish legend the green dog of the faerie world was believed to drive nursing mothers into the
hills so as to provide milk for the fairy creatures. In the recent world, a dog is a beloved human companion and
friend because of its fidelity, loyalty, and affection. Despite this some cultures it is considered unclean.
Dolphin Symbol
The dolphin is a symbol for salvation, transformation and love.
Dolphin symbol is popular and can be traced back to a long standing understanding between man and Dolphin. The
animal carries a divine spark that is different from those of other animals and that is why the early man was
fascinated by it intelligence and their ability to herd schools of fish in order to make easy prey.
To the ancient Greeks and Romans sailors, dolphins were a symbol of divine protection and guidance because they
aided the sailors by surfing the bow wave of ships at sea. They were seen to be messengers for the gods and were
therefore associated with the Nereids, Poseidon's daughters, the heroine Galatea, the goddess of love Aphrodite
and the music-loving sun god (Apollo). While in Sumeria, they were connected to the goddess Isis in Egypt, EaOannes and to the deity of the sea.
The Celts associated it with the healing power of water and some Australian tribes claim to be direct descendants
of dolphins who they regarded as guardian spirits. They tend to think that dolphins sometimes represent bad lucky
because they may tempt unknowing men and women into the water where they would be taken to Encante which
is an underwater world of no return. In European heraldry it is an important symbol and often features on Heraldic
coats-of-arms to represent diligence, salvation, charity and love. Others still believe that dolphins serve as human
connection and the underwater world of the sea.
Eagle Symbol
The eagle is a symbol for power, action, speed and perception, it has powers of intuition, creativity and can
balance power with grace all these because the eagle has sharp vision which gives it the ability to see hidden
truths and spiritual principles. Around the world, the eagle has been adopted as an emblem.
As an ancient symbol the eagle is associated to solar and the Greeks regarded it as the sacred emblem of Zeus and
as the highest god by the Druids. For those fighting for freedom, the Eagle's ability to fly high to the tops of
mountains and silently into valleys, makes it associated to a free spirit. In myth and legend, the Eagle represents
the Sun God who symbolizes light and power fire and water as its elements. It is also a symbol of spiritual power
and courage because it does not fear thunder and lightning.
When the eagle symbol is shown in imagery with the snake, it stands for conflict. Often perceived as supreme in
the air just like lion is lord of the land, it has widely been used as a symbol of leadership, emperors and warriors.
It represents all that is majestic and noble because of its alertness, epitome of speed, power and light. In Norse
legend, the bird is associated with the god, Odin because of its wisdom and light. The Greeks and Persians on
the other hand consecrated the Eagle to the Sun while the Mexicans saw the eagle symbol as the god of
vegetation. The Native American culture represented the eagle with the thunderbird and believed that its
feathers are believed to carry prayers to the sun.
Eagle
With its acute eyesight, the eagle has come to embody an all-seeing EYE. The eagle is often a solar
symbol, and can be linked to all sky gods. It signifies inspiration, release from bondage, victory, longevity, speed,
pride, father and royalty; it is often an emblem for powerful nations. The Roman, French, Austrian, German, and
American peoples have all adopted this image as their symbol. Hence, a two-headed eagle has come to often mean
the union of two nations, but it also means creative power. In psychological symbology, the eagle is viewed as "a
mightily winged creature in the heavens of the mind" (Biederman, 110). Since it lives in full light of the sun, it is
considered luminous and shares characteristics with air and fire. Through its detachment from earth it represents
spirit and soul. Dante has called the eagle of 'bird of God', while Jung defines it merely as height.
The eagle is often depicted in combat with other animals; when seen in combat with a bull or lion, it represents
the spirit or the intellect in conflict with the physical. When shown with a SERPENT in its talons, the two represent
the struggle and unity of LIGHT and DARKNESS; good and evil. In this context the eagle depicts LIGHT and good,
while the serpent represents evil and DARKNESS. Often its opposite is the owl -- the bird of darkness and death.
Elephant Symbol
In China, India and Africa, the elephant is a symbol for power, dignity, intelligence and peace.
The elephant is generally considered a symbol of good luck and the animal is a symbol of good fortune. Elephants
in Asia are symbolizing a kind of divinity and benevolence and that is why in the recent Asia there are still religious
ceremonies where offering is made to the elephants, they wash them and anoint them with special oils and
pigments so that the community be blessed with good will. They also symbolize wisdom, loyalty, strength, fidelity
and longevity.
As a symbol of wisdom, the elephant is said to attain old age and with all its wisdom. The animal is highly revered
for its strength and power. With different species, the white elephant having been chosen by Buddha was because
he wanted to use it for his many incarnations. The white elephant is a rare animal and their appearance today will
still be considered a phenomenon of the gods. It is the most positive animal symbol known with no negative
consequence. There are several lessons we can learn from the elephant and these too are used as its symbol:
strength, wisdom, solitude, strong sense of loyalty to the family and intelligence. Other communities still consider
the Elephant to be a strong symbol of luck. And thus the saying goes keep a lucky elephant at the door to your
house so that you can get protection from bad luck.
Feather
The feather is absolute lightness, flight, the element of WIND and AIR. To wear feathers is to assume
the powers of the bird, and thus puts the wearer in touch with the knowledge of the BIRD. Can also mean
emptiness, dryness, height, flight, soul/heart, charity, faith and justice. Three feathers often connotes power,
divinity and Light. Crimson feathers are normally associated with fairies. A feather crown is a halo.
Fire
Fire consumes, warms, and illuminates, but can also bring pain and death; thus, its symbolic
meaning varies wildly, depending upon the context of its use. It is often the symbol of inspiration,
and yet it is also the predominant symbol of HELL; fire is the only one of the "FOUR ELEMENTS" that humans can
produce themselves, so it bridges the connection between mortals and gods. Rituals often involve an eternal
flame, and kindling a fire is equated with birth and resurrection. Can be spiritual enlightenment, sexuality - "light
my fire" and fertility.
Fire can also be seen as a force of purification (Cooper, 1978). In a more modern context, forest fires, while looked
upon as destructive and costly by modern society (and especially by the various media), are actually, from a
scientific and ecological point of view quite positive as a mode of purification -- old growth that is burned away
makes way for new growth to begin, and the entire ecosystem is rejuvenated.
Fire is viewed by Christians, the Chinese, and the Hebrews as being a symbol of divinity (Cooper, 1978). In
Christianity, fire can also be symbolic of religious zeal and martyrdom. In Egypt it represents a sense of superiority
and control. Many cultures view fire as a symbol of wisdom and knowledge.
Fish
The symbolic nature of fish is as inseparable from that of WATER as the two are connected
in life. In psychology, water symbolizes the depths of the unconscious, and fish are the "live material from the
depths of the personality, relating to fertility and the life-giving powers of the maternal realms within us"
(Biederman, 131). Fish can also be symbolic of the faithful submerged in the waters of life. Yet fish are also coldblooded, not driven by passion, and often represent such emotionless entities. In latin Christian symbology, the
fish is related to Christ. Jesus told Peter (the first apostle), a fisherman by trade, that he would become a "fisher of
men" if he were to follow Christ. For its connection with Christ it has also come to embody resurrection and
immortality, as well as the savior. Often with ICTHS - Jesus Christ, son of god, savior.
Its character can be considered two-fold: by shape it becomes a bird of the nether regions, sacrifice between
heaven and earth; and by its plethora of eggs it represents fecundity. Can be sexual (male) in a phallic sense with a
frog (female). Can also be seen as wisdom, faith, freedom, wholeness and purity. Two fishes can be marriage, while
three is baptism.
Flower
The flower and the blossom are both universal symbols of young life. Flowers are associated with
the SUN, because the arrangement of its petals is reminiscent of the shape of a STAR; they may be innocent
representatives of spring, or they may designate lust and the realm of the erotic. They are transitory, evoking a
certain "joie de vivre," or an understanding of the fragile quality of childhood. The flower is often a representative
of beauty. The color of the flower often has a great deal to do with the symbolism it carries; red is love and
passion, white is innocence and blamelessness.
Virtue, goodness and purity are three widely associated traits. However, it can be temptation as well: proverb
"Look like the innocent flower, But be the serpent under't." Love, especially feminine, with the vulva and virginity a girl is deflowered when she loses her virginity. Scattered flowers often mean joy, especially in context with
rosebearers of a wedding.
Foot
Usually ambivalent. Direct contact with mother earth. Is phallic with the shoe as the vulva and the foot itself as a
euphemism for genitals. Can connote dying, passing on as well as slow wandering. Bare feet is a sign of mourning
and respect. Footprints have high relation to black magic - fairies have no footprints. Can also bring luck and
prosperity.
"In old customs an in art, footprints and worn-out shoes smbolized real presence. [The foot] is also an infantile
phallic symbol: in the story of Cinderella, the slipper is a female symbol and the foot a phallic one. Feet are points
of contact with the ground, good conductors of the magical or spiritual fluid with which a holy man is charged and
which would disappear if in contact iwth the ground" (Julien, 163).
Fox Symbol
The fox is a symbol for intelligence, cunning and slyness. In the medieval period, it appeared as
a symbol of the devil but in China and Japan fox is brings wealth.
The fox is a symbol of a cunning predator, intelligent, agile and charming which makes it
possible for its small size to hunt. The traits above makes it became a symbol of wildness and
diplomacy. The fox entered myth and folklore because some communities say it is a messenger
of the gods and communicates between souls of the living and the dead. It is therefore gobetween and intermediary. In the contrary throughout the ancient world, the fox was associated
with supernatural powers that made the humans to seek for its help in seeking favors from the
gods. For the fox deities, it symbolizes power and stealth.
In pre-Christian Europe, the fox was a symbol for the gods of the forest, mountain and
vegetation, people made sacrifices to the fox because it also stood for fertility. The folktales
brought about the intelligence of the fox but because of its nocturnal adventures it was identified
with evil, death, and the night. From some myths in China, the shape-shifter fox which could
various colors during winter and summer made it to be associated to dangerous seductress. On
the contrary, the Japan reverted fox as a messenger of rice deities (Shinto). They also regarded it
as a symbol of transformation. On the contrary, there is a saying that beautiful women are known
as 'foxy' because they are lithe, lean and with some danger about them. This is a positive
character attributed to human.
Gold
Gold is illuminating, sacred, durable; it is precious. It is almost universally associated with the SUN, or the highest
stage in spiritual development. The first is black - sin and penitence; then white - remission and innocence; then
red - sublimation and passion. It is heralded as embodying the powers of the EARTH, and it is light. It is the heart of
the earth, so it is symbolic of superiority.
Has many symbols of fertility, the Tree of Life supposedly had gold roots, plus wealth and abundance. Its immunity
from rust brings it connotations of immortality and incorruptibility. It is an amulet for wounded people. Along with
being the heart of the earth, gold represents heart, love and blood. In Melville's Moby Dick, sun, blood and gold
are together. Combinations: a golden apple is immortality, ball is wisdom, sun, chain is honor, dignity, respect and
wealth.
Gray
Gray is often seen as neutral, depression, and humility. Ashes are usually grey in color, and therefore a natural
correlation exists between the two. Christianity commonly views grey as symbolic of death of the body while the
sould remains eternal. Hebrew tradition relates the color grey to wisdom.
Green
Green is a dualistic color. It can represent envy, evil, and trickery, and/or growth, renewal, and life, as lush
vegetation. In Arthurian legend the green knight slew all who attempted to cross his bridge, until he was killed by
Arthur. In this respect green can be seen as death's unbiased nature and the slaying of the naive.
Vegetation, earthly, growing things. Fertility, Mother Earth, life, nature. Resurrection, permanence, and love,
which was the color of Aphrodite, Greek love goddess, born from the green sea. It is usually a feminine color, but is
also one of neutrality, passivity and indecision. In most Shakespeare the sea is green, and is often related to
memory.A sign of freshness and youth along with virtue and peace. Hospitality and knowledge also follow. Can be
thought of as expectation in relation to spring hopes. As the national color of Ireland it is supposed to bring luck,
especially on St. Patrick's Day.
In psychology, related to sensations, persons liking green are often defensive and withdrawn or cold.
Halo
The halo links individuals with divine power. It commonly emphasizes wisdom and life force emanating from the
head, and it usually tied with the notion of the supernatural. They originate from the power and luminosity of the
SUN. In art is often an expression of a man's destiny; the cage within which every man can move about his own
predetermined being. Also sometimes associated with the MOON.
Hammer
The hammer is essentially a masculine force, and when striking or crushing it represents justice and
revenge. The hammer is not only a tool; it represents might. When paired with an anvil, represents
ANDROGYNE, and with that often fertility and creation. The hammer is the thought while the anvil is the brain.
It is used often by the gods; it is Thor's most valued (but often lost) possession. They use it for destruction,
protection and fertilization, but it also symbolizes immortality. Destiny is linked with the hammer too, as well as
violence and manual labor.
Heart
The heart is the locus of physical and spiritual being, and represents the "central wisdom of
feeling as opposed to the head-wisdom of reason" (Cooper, 82). It is compassion and understanding, life-giving and
complex. It is a symbol for love. Often known as the seat of emotions, the heart is synonymous with affection. In
Egypt, represented life-essence, as the mummified had their heart preserved, first part of man to live, last to die.
Hearts also carry senses of intellect and understanding, as well as connotations of the soul, along with come will
and courage. Is the central point (with the brain and sexual organs being the endpoints) of the vertical scheme of
the human.
Horse Symbol
The horse is a symbol for velocity, vitality and beauty and it represent power like that of the
wind, storm, fire and waves.
People often revered the horse for its strength, speed and stamina. In addition to these qualities, it
is reared because of its beauty and grace that is why it is considered an important animal totem in
many cultures. Others associate the horse with power and wealth thus it is always associated with
Kings, upper classes, emperors, the Nobility and aristocracy.
Horse in ancient Greece was given not only wings but immortality because it is able to recognize
its owner and appears to return their love for it. It has then been a symbol of mutual respect.
Symbol of friendship comes from its ability to love running wild, trustworthiness, stamina and
power. The qualities express the victory over hardship or oppression and in Europe it is a
religious symbol for the warrior. In addition, the famous White Horse of Uffington was the tribal
symbol of local chieftains. Its color was also of great significance during those times because it
was the emblem of peace. The war horse on the other hand was red while a black horse was the
symbol of mourning.
In Chinese mythology, the Horse was related to the Dragon since it took its place in the folktales but still
it was an emblem of power and virtue. All in all a horse remains the symbol of the free spirit and its
intuitive intelligence.
Knife
It is a tool with loaded symbolic meaning; the knife signifies severence, death, sacrifice,
division, or liberation. In Buddhism, cutting with a knife represents deliverance, as in cutting the bonds of
ignorance. In Christianity, it represents martyrdom. A base, secret weapon. Connotes revenge and sudden defense,
often hidden, concealed. Psychology refers to it as the instinctive forces of man. Often related to TEETH in
literature.
Lamb
In Christianity, the lamb represents Christ as both suffering and triumphant; it is typically a
sacrificial animal, and may also symbolize gentleness, innocence, and purity. When depicted with the LION, the
pair can mean a state of paradise. In addition, the lamb symbolizes sweetness, forgiveness and meekness.
Relations to the month March. A BLACK lamb has certain significance - a flock cannot prosper without one yet
more than one is bad luck. Can represent pure thoughts of a just man.
Leaf
While GREEN leaves depict hope, renewal, and revival, dead leaves represent decay and
sadness. In general, leaves are symbolic of fertility and growth, and in the Chinese tradition the leaves of the
Cosmic Tree represent all of the beings in the universe. Leaves also connote people by way of their vast number,
and relate back to dress in context with Adam, who covered himself with a leaf after first learning the shame of
human nakedness. They often give a scary feeling, as the rustling of nearby leaves can mean evil is lurking near.
The term 'turning over a new leaf' is a Western idiom offering people a chance to start anew and amend their past
mistakes. However, this term does not exist in cultures that do not isolate time and space, such as the Hopi
Indians; to these people, the self is the culmination of a person's past, and therefore the two cannot be
disconnected.
Lightning
The bolt of lightning is a traditional symbol of sudden illumination and the destruction of ignorance;
it also represents a punishment of humans by the gods from the skies, most commonly attributed to Zeus, king of
the gods. In dreams, the lightning bolt is an image of sudden and terrible events and a symbol of intuition.
Although it can carry negative connotation, lightning is also a form of divine message, honoring those chosen. Its
shape allows phallic relations, and Jung sees lightning as liberating the soul.
Lion
The lion is a very diverse symbol. Its most common traits are: majesty, strength, courage,
justice, and military might. It can be both solar and lunar. Commonly reffered to as "the KING of the beasts," it is a
symbol of Kingly power and might, but as the lioness it is commonly related to the Great Mother and protection. In
a Christian context, the lion can be the power and might of Christ, or the open maw of Satan. Greek myth links this
beast to Heracles and his epic wrestling match with a supernatural lion, which no earthly weapon could harm. In
this context the lion is death, beaten by the solar hero. After killing the lion with his bare HANDS, Heracles wore its
skin as a sort of ARMOR.
As the opposite of the EAGLE, the lion can represent earth, as the presider over many floods he can represent
fertility, and as a hellish beast he can represent the underworld. Relates to almost any proud, courageous
characteristic. In psychology, the wild lion is the type of the latent passions, the dangers of the Unconscious. The
parts of the lion carry different symbolism as well: carcase - connected with honey; head - care and vigilance; tooth
- eternal and indestructable, Yeats; winged - fire.
Lion Symbol
The lion is a symbol for deathless courage, strength, fearlessness, bravery and royalty. Its body
has been used in mythological creatures and in most cases when composing the body of the
sphinx in Egyptian community.
Seen as the lord of the land, the lion is compared to the Eagle which is supreme in the air. Lion is
one of the favorite symbols of leadership, warriors and emperors. It is not only seen as a leader
on earth but also in the spiritual realms. The lion has speed, is alert and has power, this
represents all that is majestic. Just like the eagle, Kings and emperors have long included it on
their coat of arms to symbolize supreme strength.
Lion as a symbol of power, courage and strength was seen by Egyptians to represent wealth.
They used the lion on tribe banners at the time when Moses took the Israelites out of Egypt. In
today’s world since the roar of the animal is strong, it is often associated with fearlessness. The
lion has captured imagination of human beings for many centuries as a sign of majesty. When
the animal is carved on statues they are commonly found guarding palaces, bridges, temples and
tombs. Its strength and courage have made it to be associated with power as well as grandeur.
This animal knows how to get what he wants since they have the ability to knock off balance the
life of the enemy or prey. Because of its noble character, strength and courage, the lion’s totem
represents great power humans may have like self-control and balance of life which leads to own
personal power. The lion has many valuable lessons to teach us and these lessons remain the
symbols that they are associated with: self control, personal strength and courage and balance.
Monkey Symbol
The monkey is a symbol meaning fun, activity, charm and an energetic nature. It is one of the
signs of the Chinese zodiac which shows a person who has many friends. It is a sign of natural
curiosity, but can show self-indulgence and rebellion.
The monkey is loyal, witty, playful and intelligent and the character has made it be adopted into
religion, folklore, myth and astrology. As a tattoo symbol, Chinese kanji is depicted to leap over
various parts of the anatomy while the Chinese zodiac is super-quick and multi-talented and
opportunistic. In Hindu, it is a god called the Hanuman who is believed to be the reincarnation of
Shiva their god. The monkey god is heroic and dedicated to justice while in Japan the monkey
was the messenger of the gods. It was seen as a symbol of a harmonious marriage, safe
childbirth, fertility and a protector against disease and demons.
A famous folklore tells of the monkey who accompanied a monk who carried the holy Buddhist
teachings, on his journey from India to China. The monkey was chosen because it was smart and
courageous and could protect the monk from demons and evil spirits. In Mexico, the Mayans glorified
the monkey as a patron of the arts and was a symbol of knowledge and prophecy and it was also
associated with the sun by the ancient Aztecs.
Oak
Oak is usually thought of as masculine, strength, protection, durability, and/or the human body. It is commonly
associated with thunder gods (Thor in Norse mythology, Zeus/Jupiter in Greek/Roman myth, etc...) and thus is
often symbolic of THUNDER and LIGHTNING. Christian tradition links the oak to Christ, as epitomizing his strength
and resilliency. It is also connected with the CROSS, along with Holly and Aspen.
Orange
Like many fruits, the orange has become predominantly a symbol of fertility; if it is depicted in
Paradise, it is the fruit of the Fall, occasionally replacing the APPLE as the Forbidden fruit. As a color, orange is most
often linked to FLAME and FIRE, conveying thier qualities. Orange can also mean luxury.
Owl Symbol
The owl is a symbol for vigilance, acute wit and has been associated with spirits. It is a guide in
the underworld but an effective hunter and the Celtic symbolizes it with wisdom, keen sight,
and patience.
As birds of the night and prey, the owl symbol has been associated with psychic powers, the
angel of death and the goddess of night. Owls represent spiritual influence, wisdom and
knowledge in Greece, Rome, and in Celtic mythology while in Africa the owl is associated with
witchcraft, wizards and sorcery. In Eastern Africa, the owl is seen to bring illness to children
while Zulus in southern Africa sees the owl as a bird of sorcerers. Others consider it a messenger
of wizards and witches and it always gathers witches and dances on the graves of the dead. As a
nocturnal creature this bird symbolizes inner-knowing, psychic ability, and intuition, it is
considered by many cultures as a messenger between earth and the heavenly spirit.
The owl is still considered a witch's companion because they share unique spiritual
communication, the same secret powers of the night and witches use them when calling other
witches. In the recent world, the owl symbol is used to symbolize education and it is often
graduation mascot. Many cultures associated owl with the following: intelligence, brilliance,
wisdom, power and knowledge. This bird has a gift of heightened senses which enables it see
through deception, illusion, external appearances and to find hidden truths.
People who have drawn owls symbols are said to have the same ability to uncover secrets. People will
tend to be uneasy around you because they assume that you are able to see through them. The bird
teaches us to accept the dark side of our personality and that we can always find food in the darkness.
Phoenix...
Another symbol for rebirth or transformation but in an immortal/never-ending sort of way. A continuous process
(like the rising of the sun). The Phoenix burns to ashes and then is reborn complete and whole. This transformation
isn't so much a transformation into something new or different (like with a BUTTERFLY) but more of bringing a life
or energy full circle, back to the original purpose/energy and starting over (again).
Purple
Purple is derived from the combination of RED and BLUE, it unites red's fiery masculinity with blue's cool
femininity. Purple is often used to represent royalty, imperial power, justice, and/or truth. Christian references to
the color link it with God the Father and royal power. Dried blood has a purple hue to it, and bruises on the flesh
are often purple, in this respect it can be a sign of physical injury.
Rabbit
The rabbit is associated with such lunar figures as the MOON Goddesses and the Earth
Mother. Because of its rapid reproduction rate it often symbolizes fertility and lust.
Rainbow
To observe a rainbow is to bear witness to a spectacle of heavenly glory, of celestial wonder. The
rainbow often symbolizes transfiguration, and behaves as a bridge between EARTH and Paradise. For the Chinese,
the rainbow was viewed as a symbol of the yin and the yang; it is typically perceived as an act of divine
benevolence, its colors reflecting divine qualities.
Red
Is an emotionally charged color. It is associated with the sun and all gods of war, anger, blood-lust, vengance, FIRE,
and the masculine. It can also mean love, passion, health, and/or sexual arousal.
River
In their endless flow, rivers have evolved into symbols of life itself, they are "The flux of the world
in manifestation, the macrocosm" (Cooper, 139), and the crossingof a river from one bank to the other indicates
that a rite of passage has just been completed. The MOUTH of the river shares meaning with the GATE and the
DOOR as a passage to another world.
Rose
In mythology, the first red roses are said to have arisen from the BLOOD of Adonis for the love
of Aphrodite; thus, they have become symbolic of love, and often resurrection. In Christian
symbolism, the RED rose stands for the blood shed by Jesus on the CROSS; it has also become a
symbol for earthly love, a tradition which continues today. The rose may represent the Virgin Mary, and thus
virginity, or fertility and passion. It is beauty and perfection, happiness and grace, yet it is also sensuality and
seduction.
Serpent
The serpent is a universal and complex symbol. It can represent death, destruction, evil, a
penetrating legless essence, and/or poison. In the Christian tradition, Satan (in the guise of the serpent) instigated
the fall by tricking Eve into breaking God�s command. Thus the serpent can represent temptation, the devil, and
deceit. The snake is phallic, but also can be seen as androgynous. The snake can have positive implications, too;
when intertwined with the tree of life (Christian) it represents good, and it can also be associated with healing
and/or rebirth; as it sheds its skin.
Snake Symbol
The snake is a symbol for charm, danger and sexual energy.
The snake is one of the oldest symbols that appear repeatedly in the Bible and in the Egyptian
iconography. In China it is one of the astrological symbols and they believe that people born
under the snake sign would lead charmed lives and would gain and inherit wealth. These people
also tend to be seductive and are often attractive to others. Its phallic shape makes it be
associated with fertility and because during mating seasons many species of snakes mate in large
balls of intertwined individuals but their young ones normally emerge from eggs. In different
regions and cultures, the snake is seen as a foe or friend.
People have respected the snake because of its widespread distribution of poison and that is why
in many myths, when the snake bites, its venom represents life and death. This has therefore
made them a symbol of the Underworld, or Underground. Other communities represent the snake
with wisdom and knowledge. In Greek serpent was associated with the goddess of the moon and
as a female it was believed to bring knowledge to mankind. Other communities portrayed it as a
goddess of mystery birth and death and in India cults worshipped this goddess because it
represented fertility and prophecy. On the other hand the Kundalini of Yoga says that the serpent
has energy coiled at the base of its spine. This energy is ready to rise from the snake’s sex centre.
Many myths are based on the idea that many snakes hibernate underground and seem to renew
themselves by shedding their skins on a regular basis.
The act of sloughing off its skin makes different communities associate it with rebirth and
immortality. According to the Aboriginals of Australian, the giant rainbow serpent is a symbol of
creation, and in Africa the rock python sacred. In the Old Testament, however, the snake that
was in the Garden of Eden was defeated by God making people believe it is an eternal troublemaker for man.
In many communities, the rattlesnake and the cobra which are the most poisonous snakes are
seen to be the most sacred with cobra seen as the largest venomous snake in the world. In India
the cobra is held sacred and a totem for the indigenous people. It is a symbol of power and many
myths tells of it sheltering god Buddha from the sun when he slept. In Egypt, the cobra
represented several ancient deities and Cleopatra is associated to it but it is said that she used the
venom of the cobra to end her life. A cobra found in the tomb of Tutankhamen was believed to
be a protector.
In American, the rattlesnake which known as the 'rattler is a symbol of potency and fertility.
With its strike which is as fast as lightning, it has been associated with rain because rain enters
the earth and bringing forth life. The rattle is a symbol of death and transformation since its
venom can turn one nearing death to life.
As a tattoo therefore, it symbolizes power for the natural and supernatural. It represents fertility,
regeneration and wisdom. In other instances the snake represents temptation, feminine sexual power.
Snake tattoos are also popular because they can easily combine with other tattoo symbols.
Shark
Sharks can be symbolic of persistence and perseverance. In the novel A Canticle for
Leibowitz, for example, a shark is shown as one of the few surviving life forms after the second nuclear holocaust,
and it is made clear that it will survive and continue to exist even beyond this disaster. In a more modern context
sharks remain essentially unchanged since they evolved over 350 million years ago.
Shark Symbol
The shark is symbol meaning terror and violence, in the West, it is the world's greatest
predator, and therefore symbolizes power and fearlessness.
Sailors have had a long tradition of putting shark tattoo symbol to prove that they are not afraid
of death at sea and also for protection by the shark. But they believed if a shark followed ones
ship, then one of them was about to die. As a sacred animal, its power and strength were
respected but not feared. It was a totem in first Nations in North America and it represented a
hunter because it had the ability to adapt and survive various environments.
In Australia, the shark is respected and is considered a sacred symbol of the connection between the sea
and land. The shark hunters recognize when a shark was ready for catching and believed there were
variety of sharks for the nourishment of man. As a sacred animal in Polynesian, the shark tattoo symbol
protected them from the enemies. In Hawaii, there is a protective power of the aumakua, which is a row
of tattooed dots found on the ankle. The dots were supposed to keep sharks at bay during the time of
fishing and that is why they developed a myth about a woman swimming in the ocean and when
attacked by a shark, the shark saw the tattoo symbol it let go the woman. However, when humans look
at shark even in drawings, it tends to be a sleek beautiful creature but we cannot deny the fact that its
one of the most feared and respected creatures on earth.
Ship
Ship are generally larger than boats, but share many of the same meanings. They can be solar or
lunar, carrying these two celestial bodies across the seas. With their close connection to WATER, ships often bear
signifigance as fertility symbols, and are linked to the Great Mother. The Christian church is sometimes referred to
as a ship or the ARK, with the mast of the ship being the CROSS.
Shoe
Shoes might represent the lowly and the humble, or authority and power, depending upon the context. Since
slaves went barefoot, they might represent liberty.
Silver
When opposed with GOLD (masculine), Silver is usually feminine. Silver often represents the moon, virginity,
purity, the QUEEN. The culmination of these symbols can be seen in the Greek goddess Artemis, twin sister of
Apollo, the SUN God. She was one of the few virgin goddesses, the moon was her symbol, and she hunted with
silver bow and arrows.
Spider Symbol
The spider symbol meaning creativity and it often believed to link the past and the future.
Many traditions consider the spider as the weaver of the fabric of life where they introduce
both writing and the making in clothes.
All over the world few cultures do not have mythical stories about spiders this is because the
spiders can be found nearly everywhere in the planet. This can be as far as even on far-off
islands. The spiders can travel long vast distances using their webs which are fascinating. The
fascination is also eminent in the web’s ability to capture prey. In America storytellers composed
myths of a spider woman who was present at the dawn of creation before humans were created.
The spider woman taught people how top weave. In the recent world it is a symbol of fertility¸
harmony and balance. The spider in the Native American clay carvings which was drawn with a
cross carved on its back symbolized the centre of the earth with its four cardinal directions.
The Spider symbol is associated to creativity and cunning always seen when the spider is dangling at the
end of its thread. The symbol here will therefore be a sign of good luck because different communities
think that it is bringing down joy from heaven. Amongst weavers it is a symbol of their craft. Spider is
associated negatively in Europe because it is associated to hangover from the days of the Plague where
it was thought to have spread the disease.
Spider
"The spider's symbolism is partly related to the Greek myth of Arachne, who challenged Athene,
Zeus' daughter, to a weaving contest, and hanged herself when the goddess destroyed her WEB.
Athene then changed her into a spider, condemned for eternity to hang at the end of her THREAD: an example of
the danger of excessive ambition. The Jungian interpretation of the spider, motionless in the centre of its web and
repellant to most people, is that it is a symbol of anguish and associated with narcissism" (Julien, 396). The spider
can also be linked to warious MOON goddesses and the Great MOTHER in the fact that they are all weavers and
creators.
Star
The star is the "presence of the divinity" (Cooper, 159); it is hope, the EYES of the NIGHT. It
is a symbol of constancy.
Sun
The sun is the absolute cosmic power; it is the universal FATHER, while the MOON is
the universal MOTHER; it is often symbolized by the WHEEL or the disk, a CIRCLE or a
BALL; it is the center of being and intuition, it is knowledge and warmth, glory and
splendour.
Sword
The sword symbolizes power, protection, authority, strength, and courage; metaphysically, it represents
discrimination and the penetrating power of the intellect. The sword is phallic, with the sheath being yonic. It is a
symbol of knighthood and chivalry. The flaming sword of the Christian ethos seperates man from Eden. Many
swords have magical properties and are given to heroes for the advancement of justice; Excalibur was given to
Arthur by the lady of the lake, The Greek gods gave Perseus a sword that could cleave stone to defeat Medusa.
Tiger Symbol
The tiger is a symbol for power and energy all over the world. It is featured prominently in
Chinese mythology and is the second best behind the lion in the badge of military ranking.
The tiger is a potent symbol across Asia and in many cultures. It has since been a fixture of
tattooing in especially in India, Malaysia, Burma, China, Thailand, Indonesia, Japan and
Cambodia. The tiger symbol is associated with power, passion, ferocity and sensuality. In
addition to these it represents beauty and speed, cruelty and wrath and its appearance in dream is
usually a sign of new power or passion that has awakened within an individual.
In Asia the tiger is associated with power and mightiness of kings. This position is similar to those of
Lions found in the Middle East and Europe. Koreans on the other hand named the tiger the King of the
Animals. In India, god Shiva was seen in the aspect of the destroyer and was always depicted as wearing
a tiger skin and riding on a tiger. Universally, the tiger is a symbol of power and strength and can also be
a power of destruction and violence. The Chinese have images of tiger in their charms when casting
away evil spirit.
Toad
Toads are traditionally negative symbols: they are commonly viewed as demonic creatures,
often magical yet evil. In many legends, toads figure as the guardian of TREASURES; its transformation from
tadpole to maturity renders the toad a frequent symbol of resurrection and rebirth.
Tree
The tree is dynamic life itself, the result of HEAVEN, EARTH, and WATER; it is the feminine,
nourishing, sheltering image of the Great MOTHER, rooted in the earth and reaching toward the heavens,
evocative of eternity. An evergreen symbolizes immortality, and the Tree of Life and the Tree of Knowledge are
both in Paradise.
Umbrella
The umbrella usually symbolizes the canopy of the heavens, shelter, and protection. The
parasol is a symbol of the SUN, and an umbrella is a symbol of the shade. It is often an emblem of power and
dignity.
Unicorn
The unicorn is a fabled creature, a HORSE with a spiraled horn. It can be lunar, femime when
opposed to the masculine LION. In Greek history, that horn was said to have healing powers; the unicorn became a
symbol of purity and strength, and it could be caught only with the aid of a VIRGIN. It is an emblem of moral
virtues.
Water
Water popularly represents life. It can be associated with birth, fertility, and refreshment. In a Christian context,
water has many correlations. Christ walked on water, and transmuted it into WINE, thus these acts can be seen as
a transcendence of the earthly condition. Christians are baptized with or in water, symbolizing a purification of the
soul, and an admission into the faith. However, water can also be destructive (as in the biblical flood which only
Noah and his family escaped); water drowns and erodes, wearing away even the densest of stones given enough
time. Water is also one of the FOUR ELEMENTS essential to life in traditional western philosophy; In this form it is
represented by undulating lines, or a triangle pointing down. Colors commonly associated with it are BLUE and
GREEN. Its qualities are fluidity and cohesiveness. Flowing water usually represents change and the passage of
time.
Web
The spider web, and webs in general, indicate the intricate network of space and time, the cosmic plan. In
Christianity, the web is an earthly snare, denoting human frailty.
White
White may be defined either as the absence of all color or the presence of all colors of the light spectrum, and can
represent either innocence or the ultimate goal of purification. White is often the heavenly, while BLACK is the
underworld. It is LIGHT, AIR, life, holiness, love, redemption. The white flag is a symbol of surrender or friendship.
Wings
Wings carry a number of associations: they may accompany images of Christian ANGELS, fairies, spirits, and
demons. They not only represent the ability to fly, but also suggest the improvement of the subject. Winged
creatures are often messengers of the gods, and they are a symbol of freedom and spirituality. In dreams, wings
represent the release of creative energy.
Wolf Symbol
The wolf is a symbol for cruelty, cunning and greed in some cultures but others admires it
because it represents courage and victory.
Wolf is a symbol for companion and guardian. In a positive light they are a symbol of loyal,
faithful, honesty and willing to fight injustice.
It is seen as a powerful symbol of loyalty, intelligence and vigilance. As a descendant from the
Asiatic Wolf man’s relationships with wolfs goes back over 40,000 years and then it was the
11th sign of the Zodiac where it represented symbols both positive and negative. In some ancient
civilizations the Wolf was a symbol of the underworld. In Egypt, the guardian of the dead was
Anubis who was a wolf-headed god. The jackal portrayed as black was the symbol of both death
and regeneration.
The Wolf’s quality made it associated to a guardian and therefore the protector of souls that entered
the underworld. Its ability see well in the dark makes it a symbol of instinctive knowledge and the
Greeks, North American Indians and Romans were said to associate Anubis with a star (Sirius) and called
it a wolf star. Additionally, in ancient Mexico, the wolf was buried with human sacrifice so that it could
guide it to the hereafter while in ancient Scottish legend the green wolf of the faerie world was believed
to drive nursing mothers into the hills so as to provide milk for the fairy creatures. In the recent world, a
wolf is a beloved human companion and friend because of its fidelity, loyalty, and affection. Despite this
some cultures it is considered unclean.
Wolf
The wolf figures frequently in FAIRY TALES as the symbol of the enemy, of the menacing
animal. It is evil, the devouring, fierce creature which haunts and stalks. Wolves are crafty, and in the Christian
faith they are considered the spoilers of the flock (Cooper, 194). In psychology, the wolf represents untamed
energies.
Wood
In Catholicism, wood is most frequently associated with the CROSS; otherwise, it may represent the totality of
paradise, shelter, the cradle or the coffin. The carpenter uses tools symbolic of the divine power of bringing order
out of chaos (Cooper, 194).
YELLOW
Yellow often stands for light, the SUN's rays, intellect, faith, and/or goodness. However, yellow can also be a sign
of cowardice, betrayal, and/or jealousy. Insects that bear yellow and BLACK stripes are often poisonous, or
attempting to mimic another poisonous insect, and in this respect yellow can be seen as a warning, and/or
protection for it's bearer. In medical terms, a yellow flag means quarantine.
Western world:
Traffic lights: Red means stop, yellow means caution, and green means go. Yellow signs also
warn drivers of upcoming curves, pedestrian crossings, and a animal crossings.
Patriotism: Most, if not all countries have a flag. The colors of each flag are usually seen as
patriotic. Red, white, and blue symbolizes patriotism in the U.S.A.
Holidays: Red and green are favorite Christmas colours. Colors of Autumn such as orange,
brown, yellow and red are associated with Thanksgiving with black and orange associated with
Halloween. Pastel colors are used for Easter.
Color Symbolism Chart
Excitement, energy, passion, love, desire, speed,
strength, power, heat, aggression, danger, fire,
blood, war, violence, all things intense and
passionate.
Pink symbolizes love and romance, caring,
tenderness, acceptance and calm.
Beige and ivory symbolize unification. Ivory
symbolizes quiet and pleasantness. Beige
symbolizes calm and simplicity.
Joy, happiness, betrayal, optimism, idealism,
imagination, hope, sunshine, summer, gold,
philosophy, dishonesty, cowardice, jealousy,
covetousness, deceit, illness, hazard and
friendship.
Peace, tranquility, cold, calm, stability,
harmony, unity, trust, truth, confidence,
conservatism, security, cleanliness, order,
loyalty, sky, water, technology, depression,
appetite suppressant.
Turquoise symbolizes calm. Teal symbolizes
sophistication. Aquamarine symbolizes water.
Lighter turquoise has a feminine appeal.
Royalty, nobility, spirituality, ceremony,
mysterious, transformation, wisdom,
enlightenment, cruelty, arrogance, mourning.
Lavender symbolizes femininity, grace and
elegance.
Energy, balance, enthusiasm, warmth, vibrant,
expansive, flamboyant, demanding of attention.
Nature, environment, healthy, good luck,
renewal, youth, spring, generosity, fertility,
jealousy, inexperience, envy, misfortune, vigor.
Earth, stability, hearth, home, outdoors,
reliability, comfort, endurance, simplicity, and
comfort.
Security, reliability, intelligence, staid, modesty,
dignity, maturity, solid, conservative, practical,
old age, sadness, boring. Silver symbolizes
calm.
Reverence, purity, birth, simplicity, cleanliness,
peace, humility, precision, innocence, youth,
winter, snow, good, sterility, marriage (Western
cultures), death (Eastern cultures), cold, clinical.
Power, sexuality, sophistication, formality,
elegance, wealth, mystery, fear, evil,
unhappiness, depth, style, evil, sadness,
remorse, anger, anonymity, underground, good
technical color, mourning, death (Western
cultures).
Eastern World:
Marriage: White and pink
are favorite just as in the
western world.
Green: Eternity, family,
harmony, health, peace,
posterity
Happiness: Red
Helpful: Gray
Wealth: Blue, gold and
purple
White: Children, helpful
people, marriage,
mourning, peace, purity,
travel
Gold: Strength, wealth
Evil or sadness- Just like in
the western world- black.
Emotions: Blue is seen as conservative.
Red is power and aggression. Brighter
color such as yellow and orange represent
warmth not only with emotions but also
with temperature. Cool colors are blue,
green, black or any color with a dark shade.
Ecology: Obviously green is the major
color symbolizing ecology. The new phrase
for people or companies who find ways to
cut back on electricity, fuel, or things that
damage the environment is "going green."
Religion:
Colours are also used in religious
ceremonies or represent aspects of religion.
Native American include colors in
religious ceremonies. The Navajo Nation
considers four colors to be important:
Turquoise, white, yellow, and black. These colors represent four sacred mountains. The Apache
Nation also considers four colors to be important: Green, white, yellow and black. These are
sacred colors of the white mountain and are also used in government. The Iowa Nation also
considers four colors to be sacred: Black, yellow, red and white. They represent direction, their
flag, and what they consider to be four races of man. [1]
Use in Therapy:
Colors are sometimes used in therapy. Colors have a huge effect on people who have brain
disorders or who are emotionally troubled. The color blue has a calming effect on many people
and lowers respiration and blood pressure. Red has the opposite effect. Some therapists use green
to sooth and relax emotionally disturbed people who suffer from anxiety or depression. Some
claim that the color violet is good for migraines but I doubt that claim because it would be used
more extensively in the medical field. Yellow helps energize people and relieves depression.
Color in World Culture
Color means many different things to different people and cultures. We all have our own favorite
colors. People like different colors like they like different foods. Color also represents feelings,
people, countries, cultures, and color symbolism. In the western world, the color red is seen
frequently of symbolizing anger or aggression. Some car insurance companies charge more for
red cars because some of the owners of red cars are more aggressive or take more risks.
Books about color
Black: The History of a Color - Black--favorite color of priests and penitents, artists and ascetics,
fashion designers and fascists- has always stood for powerfully opposed ideas: authority and
humility, sin and holiness, rebellion and conformity, wealth and poverty, good and bad. In this
illustrated book, the acclaimed author of "Blue" now tells the fascinating social history of the
color black in Europe.
Color and Meaning: Art, Science, and Symbolism - Does color have an effect on our feelings?
The phenomenon of color is examined in new ways in John Gage's latest book. His study is
informed by the conviction that color is a contingent, historical occurrence whose meaning, like
language, lies in the particular contexts in which it is experienced and interpreted.
Veiled Brightness: A History of Ancient Maya Color - Veiled Brightness reconstructs what color
meant to the ancient Maya, a set of linked peoples and societies who flourished in and around the
Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico and Central America. By using insights from archaeology,
linguistics, art history, and conservation, the book charts over two millennia of color use in a
region celebrated for its aesthetic refinement and high degree of craftsmanship.
Pantone Guide to Communicating with Color - This authoritative guide presents hundreds of
color combinations and color principles needed to create effective designs. Every lesson is
demonstrated by example, enabling designers of all specialties and levels of experience to make
the best color choices for every type of design.
http://www.princetonol.com/groups/iad/lessons/middle/color2.htm
Here are some of the meanings of colors and the energies contained in their corresponding
stones.
Red - Pink - Brown - Orange - Gold - Yellow
Green - Blue - Purple - Indigo - White - Black - Gray
Red symbolizes: action, confidence, courage, vitality
Red is the color most chosen by...(more)
Red gemstones
Pink symbolizes: love, beauty
The quality of pink energy is determined by...(more)
Pink gemstones
Brown symbolizes: earth, order, convention
The red in brown gives this color...(more)
Brown gemstones
Orange symbolizes: vitality with endurance
Orange increases the craving for...(more)
Orange gemstones
Gold symbolizes: Wealth, prosperity, wisdom
People who favor gold are...(more)
Gold gemstones
Yellow symbolizes: wisdom, joy, happiness, intellectual
energy
The shade of yellow determines...(more)
Yellow gemstones
Green symbolizes: life, nature, fertility, well being
Wear green when you want to overcome...(more)
Green gemstones
Blue symbolizes: youth, spirituality, truth, peace
Artists use blue to show perspective...(more)
Blue gemstones
Purple symbolizes: Royalty, magic, mystery
Purple is the color of people who seek...(more)
Purple gemstones
Indigo symbolizes: intuition, meditation, deep
contemplation
Indigo can have a negative effect when used during...(more)
Indigo gemstones
White symbolizes: Purity, Cleanliness
White has vibrations that can be used to...(more)
White gemstones
Black symbolizes: Death, earth, stability
While white reveals, black conceals...(more)
Black gemstones
Gray symbolizes: Sorrow, security, maturity
Gray is the color of sorrow. People who favor gray can be the lone wolf type or narrow-minded.
Gray with more silver in it can be a very active color.
Native Americans associate gray with friendship. Gray is the symbol for security, maturity and
dependability. It connotes responsibility and conservative practicality.
Gray Energy
Gray is the true neutral color. Its energy imparts void, emptiness, lack of movement, emotion,
warmth and identifying characteristics. Because of this, gray can be restful. It has a detached and
isolated feeling. Gray can have a cooling effect when placed next to other more vibrant colors. It
has a stabilizing effect, making vibrant colors stand out while muting their vibration.
Put some gray in your life when you want:




to emphasize your willingness to comply
a neutral, non-invasive feeling
to reduce the intense energy of another color
to feel detached or isolated
Gray gem stone properties
Gray gemstones are healing stones and can assist in improving relationships toward more
stability.
http://crystal-cure.com/gray.html
Color Symbolism Chart
Color
Red
Yellow
Blue
Symbolism
Excitement, energy, passion, desire, speed, strength, power, heat, love, aggression,
danger, fire, blood, war, violence, aggression, all things intense and passionate.
Joy, happiness, optimism, idealism, imagination, hope, sunshine, summer, gold,
philosophy, dishonesty, cowardice, betrayal, jealousy, covetousness, deceit, illness,
hazard.
Peace, tranquility, calm, stability, harmony, unity, trust, truth, confidence,
conservatism, security, cleanliness, order, loyalty, sky, water, cold, technology,
depression, appetite suppressant.
Orange
Energy, balance, warmth, enthusiasm, vibrant, expansive, flamboyant, demanding of
attention.
Green
Nature, environment, healthy, good luck, renewal, youth, vigor, spring, generosity,
fertility, jealousy, inexperience, envy, misfortune.
Purple
Royalty, spirituality, nobility, spirituality, ceremony, mysterious, transformation,
wisdom, enlightenment, cruelty, arrogance, mourning.
Gray
Security, reliability, intelligence, staid, modesty, dignity, maturity, solid, conservative,
practical, old age, sadness, boring
Brown
Earth, hearth, home, outdoors, reliability, comfort, endurance, stability, simplicity, and
comfort.
White
Black
Reverence, purity, simplicity, cleanliness, peace, humility, precision, innocence, youth,
birth, winter, snow, good, sterility, marriage (Western cultures), death (Eastern
cultures), cold, clinical, sterile.
Power, sexuality, sophistication, formality, elegance, wealth, mystery, fear, evil,
anonymity, unhappiness, depth, style, evil, sadness, remorse, anger, underground, good
technical color, mourning, death (Western cultures).
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http://w ebdesign.
http://w ebdesign.
http://www.rrsd.mb.ca/riverscoll/snr1/student_rsc/color%20symbolism%20chart.htm
Buddhism has evolved over the centuries a complex, yet discernable scheme of symbolism
which has found adequate expression in Buddhist art. Undoubtedly, the most popular of such
symbols is the group of eight, known in Sanskrit as 'Ashtamangala,' ashta meaning eight and
mangala meaning auspicious. Each of these symbols is also individually associated with the
physical form of the Buddha.
These eight auspicious symbols of Buddhism (Tib. bkra shis rtags brgyad) are:
1). A Conch Shell
2). A Lotus
3). A Wheel
4). A Parasol (Umbrella)
5). An Endless Knot
6). A Pair of Golden Fishes
7). A Banner Proclaiming Victory
8). A Treasure Vase
The Conch Shell (Skt. shankha; Tib. dung dkar):
The conch shell has survived as the original horn
trumpet since time immemorial. Ancient Indian epics
describe how each hero of mythical warfare carried a
mighty white conch shell, which often bore a personal
name. It is one of the main emblems of Vishnu, and
his conch bears the name of Panchajanya, meaning
'having control over the five classes of beings.'
Arjuna's (hero of the Mahabharata) mighty conch was
known as Devadatta, whose triumphant blast brought
terror to the enemy. As a proclaiming battle horn, the
conch is akin to the bugle. It is an emblem of power,
authority and sovereignty whose blast is believed to
banish evil spirits, avert natural disasters, and scare
away poisonous creatures. Today, in its greatly tamed
avatar, the conch is used in Tibetan Buddhism to call
together religious assemblies. During the actual
practise of rituals, it is used both as a musical
instrument and as a container for holy water.
Ancient Indian belief classifies the conch into male and female varieties. The thicker-shelled
bulbous one is thought to be the male (purusha), and the thin-shelled slender conch to be the
female (shankhini).
The fourfold caste division is also applied as follows:
a). The smooth white conch represents the Brahmin caste
b). The red conch the kshatriyas (warriors)
c). The yellow conch the vaishyas (merchants)
d). The grey conch the shudras (labourers)
Additionally, there is a fundamental classification of conch shells occurring in nature: those that
turn to the left and those which turn to the right.
The Left Turning Conch
The Right Turning Conch
Shells which spiral to the right in a clockwise direction are a rarity and are considered especially
sacred. The right-spiralling movement of such a conch is believed to echo the celestial motion of
the sun, moon, planets and stars across the heavens. The hair whorls on Buddha's head spiral to
the right, as do his fine body hairs, the long curl between his eyebrows (urna), and also the
conch-like swirl of his navel.
Vajrayana Buddhism absorbed the conch as a
symbol which fearlessly proclaimed the truth of the
dharma. Among the eight symbols, it stands for the
fame of the Buddha's teaching, which spreads in all
directions like the sound of the conch trumpet.
In addition to Buddha's throat, the conch also
appears as an auspicious mark on the soles, palms,
limbs, breast or forehead of a divinely endowed
being.
The Lotus (Skt. padma; Tib. pad ma):
The lotus does not grow in Tibet and so Tibetan art
has only stylized versions of it. Nevertheless, it is
one of Buddhism's best recognized motifs since
every important deity is associated in some manner
with the lotus, either being seated upon it or
holding one in their hands.
The roots of a lotus are in the mud, the stem grows
up through the water, and the heavily scented
flower lies above the water, basking in the sunlight.
This pattern of growth signifies the progress of the
soul from the primeval mud of materialism,
through the waters of experience, and into the
bright sunshine of enlightenment. Though there are
other water plants that bloom above the water, it is
only the lotus which, owing to the strength of its
stem, regularly rises eight to twelve inches above the surface.
Thus says the Lalitavistara, 'the spirit of the best of men is spotless, like the lotus in the muddy
water which does not adhere to it.' According to another scholar, 'in esoteric Buddhism, the heart
of the beings is like an unopened lotus: when the virtues of the Buddha develop therein, the lotus
blossoms; that is why the Buddha sits on a lotus bloom.'
Significantly, the color of the lotus too has an important bearing on the symbology associated
with it:
1). White Lotus (Skt. pundarika; Tib. pad ma dkar po): This represents the state of spiritual
perfection and total mental purity (bodhi). It is associated with the White Tara and proclaims her
perfect nature, a quality which is reinforced by the color of her body.
2). Red Lotus (Skt. kamala; Tib: pad ma chu skyes): This signifies the original nature and purity
of the heart (hrdya). It is the lotus of love, compassion, passion and all other qualities of the
heart. It is the flower of Avalokiteshvara, the bodhisattva of compassion.
3). Blue Lotus (Skt. utpala; Tib. ut pa la): This is a symbol of the victory of the spirit over the
senses, and signifies the wisdom of knowledge. Not surprisingly, it is the preferred flower of
Manjushri, the bodhisattva of wisdom.
4). Pink Lotus (Skt. padma; Tib. pad ma dmar po): This the supreme lotus, generally reserved for
the highest deity. Thus naturally it is associated with the Great Buddha himself.
The Wheel (Skt. chakra; Tib. 'khor lo):
The wheel consists of three basic parts:
the hub, the rim, and spokes (generally
eight in number). Its underlying form is
that of a circle, which is recognized
across all traditions as a shape that is
complete and perfect in itself, qualities
which inform the teachings of the
Buddha too.
Individually, the rim represents the
element of limitation, the hub is the axis
of the world, and the eight spokes
denote the Eightfold Path set down by
the Buddha, which leads to the cessation
of all suffering.
The Eight-Spoked Dharma Wheel
A further esoteric interpretation makes
reference to the three trainings which
form an integral part of Buddhist
meditative practice, associating each of
the three parts of the wheel with one
such practice. This symbolism is as follows:
a). The hub stands for training in moral discipline. Through this practise the mind is supported
and stabilized. Thus it is the practise of moral discipline that upholds our meditation, just like the
supporting axis of the world.
b). The spokes stand for the correct application of wisdom, which cuts off ignorance and ends
suffering.
c). The rim denotes concentration, which holds the entire meditative practise together, just as the
wheel of life is held together by its rim.
The wheel evolved as a symbol of the Buddha's teachings and as an emblem of the Chakravartin
or 'wheel turner,' identifying the wheel as the Dharmachakra or 'wheel of law.' The Tibetan term
for Dharmachakra (chos kyi'khor lo) literally means 'the wheel of transformation.' The wheel's
swift motion serves as an apt metaphor for the rapid spiritual change engendered by the
teachings of the Buddha. Hence, Buddha's first discourse at the Deer Park in Sarnath is known as
the 'first turning of the wheel of dharma.' Likewise, his subsequent discourses at Rajgir and
Shravasti are known as the 'second and third turnings of the wheel of dharma.'
The Parasol (Skt. chattra; Tib. gdugs):
Above the mountain is the dome of the
sky. This is symbolized by the umbrella,
whose important function is to cast a
shadow, the shadow of protection. The
dictionary defines a parasol as an
umbrella used for protection from the
sun. Thus its function is to protect
exclusively from the heat rather than the
rain - as the word 'parasol,' meaning 'to
hold off the sun,' and 'umbrella,'
meaning 'little shade,' similarly imply.
The Sanskrit term 'chattra,' also means
'mushroom,' in an obvious reference to
its shape.
The parasol or umbrella is a traditional
Indian symbol of both protection and
royalty. The ability to protect oneself
against inclement weather has always, in
The Tibetan Parasol
all cultures, been a status symbol. In
Europe, until a few decades ago, a sunshade was a status symbol for society ladies. In Oriental
thought, the fact that it protected the bearer from the scorching heat of the sun was transferred
into the religious sphere as a "protection against the heat of defilements." Thus the coolness of its
shade symbolizes protection from the heat of suffering, desire, and other spiritually harmful
forces.
The dome of the umbrella is held aloft by a
vertical handle (just like the mountain upholds
the sky), which is identified with the 'axis
mundi,' or the central axis upholding the world.
The umbrella is carried above an important
dignitary or the image of a deity, to indicate that
the person or symbol below the umbrella is in
fact the center of the universe, and also its
spiritual support. Umbrellas seem to be
especially important in processional rites, being
like mobile temples. Thus, depictions of the
Buddha often display an elaborate and large
umbrella above his head.
As it is held above the head it naturally symbolizes
honor and respect. In Vajrayana Buddhism, this large
umbrella (atapatra) was even deified into the
thousand-armed, -footed goddess Sitapatra, whose
name literally means 'the white umbrella.'
In Tibet, depending on their status, various dignitaries
were entitled to different parasols, with religious
heads being entitled to a silk one and secular rulers to
a parasol with embroidered peacock feathers. Exalted
personalities such as the Dalai Lama are entitled to
both, and in processions, first a peacock parasol and
then a silk one is carried after him.
The Tibetan version of the parasol was adopted from
its royal Indian and Chinese prototypes, and
fashioned from a wooden, spoked frame with a
domed silk cover and hanging silk pendants making
up an overhanging skirt.
The dome symbolizes wisdom, and the hanging skirt,
compassion. Thus the composite form of the parasol
signifies the union of these dual elements.
Octagonal and square parasols are also common,
representing the Noble Eightfold Path and the four
directional quarters respectively.
The Endless Knot (Skt. shrivatsa; Tib. dpal be'u):
The endless knot is a closed, graphic ornament composed of right-angled, intertwined lines. It is
conjectured that it may have evolved from an ancient naga symbol with two stylized snakes.
This latter image signifies the dramatic interplay and interaction of the opposing forces in the
dualistic world of manifestation, leading to their union, and ultimately to harmony in the
universe. This fact is amply reflected in the
symmetrical and regular form of the endless knot.
The intertwining of lines reminds us how all
phenomena are conjoined and yoked together as a
closed cycle of cause and effect. Thus the whole
composition is a pattern that is closed on in itself
with no gaps, leading to a representational form of
great simplicity and fully balanced harmony.
Since all phenomena are interrelated, the placing of
the endless knot on a gift or greeting card is
understood to establish an auspicious connection
between the giver and the recipient. At the same
time, the recipient is goaded to righteous karma,
being reminded that future positive effects have their
roots in the causes of the present. This is because the
knot represents a connection, a link with our fates,
binding us to our karmic destiny. Not surprisingly,
this is one of the most favorite symbols in Tibetan
Buddhism, and often occurs independently on its
own.
Since the knot has no beginning or end it also symbolizes the infinite wisdom of the Buddha.
The Golden Fishes (Skt. suvarnamatsya; Tib. gser
nya):
This symbol consists of two fishes, which usually
appear standing vertically with heads turned inwards
towards each other.
The pair of fishes originated as an ancient preBuddhist symbol of the two sacred rivers of India,
Ganga and Yamuna. Symbolically, these two rivers
represent the lunar and solar channels, which
originate in the nostrils and carry the alternating
rhythms of breath or prana. In Buddhism, the golden
fishes symbolize happiness, as they have complete
freedom in water. They represent fertility and
abundance as they multiply very rapidly. Fish often
swim in pairs, and in China they represented
conjugal unity and fidelity, where a pair of fishes
would often be given as a wedding present.
Both Jesus Christ and Buddha are known as 'fisher of men,' because they save mortals from the
ocean of suffering.
The Victory Banner (Skt. dhvaja; Tib. rgyal mtshan):
In Sanskrit, the banner or sign of victory is known as the dhvaja, meaning standard, flag or
ensign. Originally, the victory banner was a military standard carried in ancient Indian warfare,
and bore the specific insignia of its champion. For example in the Mahabharata, Krishna's chariot
was adorned with a banner showing the image of the monkey-god Hanuman.
The victory banner was adopted by early Buddhism as an emblem of the Buddha's
enlightenment, heralding the triumph of knowledge over ignorance. It is said to have been placed
on the summit of Mt. Meru by Buddha himself, symbolizing his victory over the entire universe.
Again, Mount Meru here is believed to be the central axis supporting the world.
The flag of victory also denotes Buddha's triumph over Mara, who personifies hindrances on the
path to spiritual realization. Specifically, there are said to be four types of Maras, each one
representing an individual hurdle on the path to
spiritual progress. These are:
1). The Mara of Emotional Defilement
2). Mara of Passion
3). Mara of the Fear of Death
4). Mara of Pride and Lust
It was only after conquering these four negative traits
that Buddha could proclaim victory over ignorance,
and achieve nirvana.
Cylindrical victory banners made of beaten copper
are traditionally placed at the four corners of
monastery and temple roofs. These signify the
Buddha's victorious dharma radiating to the four
directions and also his triumph over the four Maras
mentioned above.
The Treasure Vase (Skt. nidhana kumbha; Tib. gter gyi bum pa):
The vase is a fat-bellied vessel with a
short, slim neck. On top, at the opening,
there is a large jewel indicating that it is
a treasure vase.
Its symbolic meaning was almost always
associated with the ideas of storage and
the satisfaction of material desires. In
the sagas and fairytales of many
different cultures, for example, there is
the recurring idea of an inexhaustible
vessel.
Physically, the 'vase of inexhaustible
treasures' is modelled on the traditional
Indian clay water pot or kumbha with a
flat base, round body, narrow neck and
fluted upper rim. However much is
removed from it, this vase remains
The Vase of Inexhaustable Treasures
perpetually full. Wealth vases, sealed
with precious and sacred substances, are commonly placed upon altars and on mountain passes,
or buried at water springs, where their presence is believed to attract wealth and bring harmony
to the environment. In relation to Buddhism it specifically means the spiritual abundance of the
Buddha, a treasure that did not diminish, however much of it he gave away.
The question still remains of the association of these eight symbols with the Buddha's actual
physical body. An ancient text called the Heap of Good Fortune Sutra (Aryamangalakutanamamahayanasutra), while addressing the Buddha, has this to say on the issue:
Veneration to you with your head like a protecting parasol,
With eyes like the precious golden fishes (even today a woman with beautiful eyes is known as
'minakshi,' meaning one with fish-like eyes)
With neck like a precious, adorned vase of good fortune,
With speech like a right-turning Dharma shell,
With a mind infinite with wisdom like the never ending knot,
With a tongue open like the auspicious pink lotus,
With a body proclaiming triumph over the attacking armies of Mara,
With feet that tread the path of dharma like the auspicious wheel.
Artistically, these motifs may be depicted
individually, in pairs, in fours, or as a composite
group of eight. Designs of these eight symbols
adorn all manner of sacred and secular Buddhist
objects, such as carved wooden furniture,
metalwork, wall panels, carpets and silk
brocades.
They are also frequently drawn on the ground in
sprinkled flour or colored powders to welcome
visiting religious dignitaries. Indeed, no Tibetan
ceremony, be it religious or secular (for e.g. a
marriage), is complete without some depiction
of the eight auspicious symbols of Buddhism,
which are believed to propitiate the environment
and grant protection to the activity being undertaken.
http://www.exoticindiaart.com/article/symbols/
Cornucopia (Horn of plenty, Horn of Amalthea)
The Cornucopia (Latin, ‘horn of plenty’), a spiraling, woven
basket overflowing with an abundance of produce, is an ever-present symbol
of harvest prosperity. The symbol dates back to an ancient tale of the
Nymph Amalthea,* who, as a reward from the infant Zeus for a meal of
Goat’s milk, was given an enchanted goat’s horn which gave whatever one
wished for.**
The cornucopia became a ubiquitous symbol of fortune and plenty, and was
associated with many Goddesses, including Fortuna, the goddess of good
fortune, and Ceres, Goddess of agriculture.