Veto history is saturated with mysterious symbols and objects that are often the basis of debates, even sometimes of more serious conflicts. The mystery surrounding the most famous symbols and their meaning continues to excite people of all generations.
Of course for some the theories of what they mean and what they were used for are many, but I will focus on the most popular among them.
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Meaning: The cross is a central symbol of Christianity. It represents the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his resurrection, symbolizing sacrifice, redemption and the promise of eternal life. The vertical line represents the divine and the horizontal line represents the earthly.
The cross is a symbol with deep historical and cultural significance beyond its role in Christianity. Here are some additional meanings associated with the cross in various contexts:
Pagan and pre-Christian symbolism: The cross was used in various pre-Christian cultures as a symbol of the four elements or directions. For example, in Norse mythology the cross-like “cross of Odin” represents the intersection of life and death, while in ancient cultures it may symbolize the intersection of the spiritual and physical worlds.
Ancient Egyptian Ankh: The ankh, which looks like a cross with a loop at the top, was a powerful symbol of life, death and immortality in ancient Egypt. It also represents divine protection and the concept of eternal life.
Astronomical Symbolism: The cross may represent the intersection of the celestial equator and the ecliptic, forming the cardinal points (north, south, east, west). This astronomical cross is used in various fields, including astrology and navigation.
Medical symbol: The cross is used as a symbol of the medical professions. The Rod of Asclepius, a staff with a single snake wrapped around it, represents healing and medicine. It is named after the Greek god of healing Asclepius.
Militaristic Symbolism: In a military context, the cross can symbolize valor, honor and sacrifice. The Iron Cross, for example, is a well-known military decoration that originated in Prussia and later Germany.
Flags and heraldic symbols: The cross appears on the flags of various countries and regions. For example, the Union Jack of the United Kingdom includes the cross of St. George (a red cross on a white background). In addition, the cross is often used in heraldry to denote faith and chivalry.
Masonic Symbolism: In Freemasonry, the cross is used as part of various symbols and emblems. It can represent spiritual enlightenment, moral principles and the search for truth.
Spiritual and Metaphysical Interpretations: Beyond its religious or cultural meanings, some interpret the cross as a symbol of spiritual transformation, the union of opposites (vertical and horizontal lines), and the meeting of heaven and earth.
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Meaning: This Taoist symbol represents the dualistic nature of existence. The black side (yin) contains a white dot, symbolizing the yang seed, and vice versa. It represents the idea that opposites (dark/light, passive/active) are interconnected and essential to harmony and balance.
Star of David:
Meaning: Also known as the Shield of David, this hexagram represents Judaism and Jewish identity. Its six points symbolize the six days of creation, while the center represents the Sabbath. It signifies the connection between the divine and the human and the unity between the various elements.
Crescent and Star:
Meaning: This symbol, often associated with Islam, has various interpretations. The crescent moon represents the lunar calendar used in Islam, while the star is usually associated with the Prophet Muhammad. Together they can symbolize the Muslim faith as well as unity and guidance.
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Meaning: Originally an ancient symbol found in many cultures, the swastika was appropriated by the Nazis and became a symbol of hatred and racism. Before that, however, it symbolized well-being, luck and spirituality in various cultures, including Hinduism and Buddhism.
Meaning: The lotus has spiritual significance in many cultures. In Buddhism, it represents purity, enlightenment and rebirth. Growing out of the mud but blooming above the surface of the water, it symbolizes the journey from ignorance to understanding.
Heart symbol:
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Meaning: The heart symbol has evolved over time to represent love and affection. In ancient times it was associated with the heart as the center of human emotions and intellect. It is now universally recognized as a symbol of love and compassion.
Meaning: Also known as the Triple Knot, the triquetra is a Celtic symbol of intertwined loops. It can represent various trinities, such as life-death-rebirth or mind-body-spirit. It is also used as a symbol of the Holy Trinity in Christianity.
Meaning: The hamsa, or hand of Fatima, is a symbol of protection against the evil eye in various cultures, including Judaism and Islam. There is often an eye in the center that protects against negative energy. It is believed to bring blessings, power and strength.
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Author: Elena Isaeva
