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Monday, November 30, 2009
Hamsa Hand
Hamsa hand is also known as the hand of Miriam, the sister of Moses and Aaron.
The Hamsa Hand itself has been used for centuries as a symbol of protection against evil and is known in Jewish lore as the “Hand of Miriam”.
Of ancient Middle Eastern origin, the Hamsa represents G-d's protective hand.
For centuries the Hamsa has been used as a symbol of Good luck. The Hamsa's positive energy draws happiness, riches and health.
Many believers place the Hamsa hand in their homes and at their work place to ward off the "evil eye".
Mezuzah
The mezuzah is not, as some suppose, a good-luck charm, nor does it have any connection with the lamb's blood placed on the doorposts in Egypt. Rather, it is a constant reminder of G-d's presence and G-d's mitzvot.
The scroll must be handwritten in a special style of writing and must be placed in the case to fulfill the mitzvah.
Menorah
The lamp stand in today's synagogues, called the ner tamid (translated as the eternal flame), symbolizes the menorah. Many synagogues also have an ornamental menorah, usually with some critical detail changed (for example, with only 6 candles) to avoid the sin of reproducing objects of the Temple.
The Menorah has served as a uniquely Jewish symbol from antiquity to contemporary times. The Menorah can be found on ancient coins, gravestones, synagogue decorations. Today the Menorah serves as the seal and emblem of the Jewish State of Israel.
Cupid (Love Symbol)
In the story of Cupid and Psyche, he is described as a magnificently handsome young man. In many stories, he is called the son of Venus.
According to Hesiod, Eros was the deity who came from Chaos and represented the primal forces of desire. Eros is said to have been born from the union of Aphrodite and Ares. Known as Amor (meaning love) to the Romans, the Cupid was often shown blindfolded in art to symbolize love's blindness.
Shamrock Meaning
St. Patrick utilized the three leafed clover as an illustration of the Christian holy trinity. Each leaf representing: Father, Son, Holy Ghost
Specifically, the four-leaf clover is revered in Celtic myth for its emerald green hue and its vigorous growth.
Each leaf symbolizes a different lucky characteristic: fame, wealth, love, health.
If you wear a lucky clover, your sweetheart will come to you, if you possess one, no evil can harm you, and if you dream of one you will live happily for the rest of your days.
The notorious four-leaf clover is still considered a good luck symbol today because of its rarity.
Rose Meaning And Symbolism
Rose meaning and symbolism is known by almost everyone - otherwise it wouldn’t be the most popularly sent flower on Valentine’s Day! This page honors the upcoming event, and explores the richness of rose meanings and its lush symbolism.
Some helpful keywords pertaining to symbolic rose meaning: Love, honor, faith, beauty, balance, passion, wisdom, intrigue, devotion, sensuality and timelessness.
In mythology, rose meaning is associated with Aphrodite (Greek) goddess of love who was often depicted adorned with roses around her head, feet and or neck. In lore, we track down this association when we discover that a rose bush grew within the pool of blood spilled from Aphrodite’s slain lover (Adonis).
In addition to being a symbol of love, the rose is also symbolic carrier of secrets or tacit understanding.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Hands of God (Slavic Symbol)
For Slavs, the cross was associated with fire and life, but generally with the sun and the balance of the Universe.
In a majority of primary and original cultures, it was believed to provide luck and the welfare.
The symbol itself consists of a large central cross (symbolizing arms and hands ended with five fingers, the comb shape), which represents the force of a Supreme God.
Lotus With Namam (Ayyavazhi Symbol)
The symbol of Ayyavazhi is a lotus carrying a flame-shaped white Namam.
The lotus represents the 1,008-petalled Sahasrara
(in Tamil language, Ladam), while the Namam represents the Aanma Jyothi or atman.
Both of the Ayyavazhi scriptures refer to Thirunamam the ("flame shaped symbol" present in the top of the Lotus in the Ayyavazhi symbol), not to the lotus proper.
The symbol is the ideological summary of Akilam-based philosophy.
This symbol has been in use since the mid-20th century.
Nine Pointed Star (Baha'i Symbol)
The most commonly used symbol connected to the number 9 is the nine-pointed star, there is no particular design of the nine-pointed star that is used more often than others. While the star is not a part of the teachings of the Bahai Faith, it is commonly used as an emblem representing "9", because of the association of number 9 with perfection, unity and Baha.
Baha'is believe all the world's major religions are part of God's continuing revelation of His Will for Humankind.
They believe each individual has a right and an obligation to pursue truth independently, and religious freedom is essential for the progress of Humanity.
Ek-Onkar (Sykh Symbol)
The words Ek-Onkar have a firm place in Sikhism and it symbolizes a lot. The Guru Granth Sahib Ji opens with these words. Ek-Onkar means 'There is one God.'
Many Gurdwaras and Sikh organizations use this symbol on letters and other documents. In fact, many Sikhs also use this symbol on their letters.
This constant repetition of Ek-Onkar is done so that Sikhs are constantly reminded that there is only one God in the universe.
Khanda (Sikh Symbol)
The khanda is like a "coat of arms' for Sikhs. It became known as the Sikh National anthem, as the emblem of the Khalsa. It is an amalgam of three symbols, represented by three different items.
In the symbol the sword to the left represents truth, and the sword to the right represents the will to fight for what is right- dharma. The circle in the middle means that there is only one God, never beginning and never ending.
Jain Emblem
The inner part of the symbol contains Swastika and Jain Hand.
The meaning of the mantra at the bottom is "Live and Let Live". All creatures should help each other.
The outline of the symbol is defined as the universe. Jainism says that this universe was neither created by anyone, nor can it be destroyed by anyone. It changes its form, but it has always been and will always be here.
Jain Swastika (Jainist Symbol)
In Jainism, Swastika represents the Seventh Jina, more popularly known as the Tirthankara Suparsva.
It is one of the most prominent auspicious symbols of the present era.
In the cultural traditions of Svetambar Jains, Swastika is one of the main symbols of the ashta-mangalas.
A Jain swastika is normally associated with the three dots on the top accompanied with a crest and a dot.
Jain Hand (Jainist Symbol)
The palm of the hand signifies the assurance, indicating that human beings suffering due to karmic bondage do not need to be disheartened. Another meaning is “stop and think before you act to assure that all possible violence is avoided.” This gives us a chance to scrutinize our activities to be sure that they will not hurt anyone by our words, thoughts, or actions. We are also not supposed to ask or encourage others to take part in any harmful activity.
The wheel in the hand symbolizes SAMASARA (reincarnation cycle). It shows that if we are not careful and ignore these warnings and carry on violent activities, then just as the wheel goes round and round, we will go round and round through the cycles of birth and death.
The word in the center of the wheel is "Ahimsa" (non-violence). Ahimsa means avoidance of Himsa (violence).Friday, November 20, 2009
Serbian Cross
In Serbian its called cetiri c read s or four c and and the four letters represent the slogan Samo Sloga Srbina Spasava or in english only unity saves the Serbs
The motif of a cross is derived from Constantine's labarum and has figured on Byzantine coins, since the 6th c. Later, the 4 symbols of the cross have been interpreted as flints or firestones, but also as the initials of the imperial motto of the Palaiologos dynasty: King of Kings, Ruling Over Kings.
The cross has been used by Serbian states and the Serbian Orthodox Church since the Middle Ages after DuĊĦan the Mighty was crowned Emperor (Tsar) of the Serbs and Greeks.
Today it is the national, religious and ethnic symbol of Serbs and Serbia.
St. Brigid's Cross
This cross is found throughout Ireland. It is told that the cross was made by Brigid, daughter of a pagan king from reeds to be used as an instrument of conversion. However, Brigid's name is derived from Brigit, a Celtic Goddess of fire, poetry, and smithcraft, and today the cross is used to protect houses from fire. This is an example of the integration of religious traditions.
It is piously believed that this rush cross, which became her emblem, keeps evil and hunger from the homes in which it is displayed.
For centuries, it has been customary on the eve of her feast-day for the Irish to fashion a St. Brigid’s Cross of straw or rushes and place it inside the house, over the door.
Presbyterian Cross
Presbyterianism, form of Christian church organization based on administration by a hierarchy of courts composed of clerical and lay presbyters. Holding a position between episcopacy and Congregationalism, Presbyterianism sought a return to the early practice of appointed elders as described in the New Testament.
Spiritually, Presbyterianism uses the principles of Calvinism and forms the main branch of the Reformed churches.
Saint Andrew's Cross
It is called so because Saint Andrew, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus, is reputed to have been crucified on a cross of this shape.
The St. Andrew's Cross is not unique to the Confederate battle flag. The reason that the CSA put the St. Andrew's Cross on its flag is the Scottish heritage of the South.
The Scottish national flag has the St. Andrew's Cross in white on a field of blue.
It is also called the Saltire, the Boundary Cross and the crux decussata. Saint Andrew is believed to have suffered a martyr's death on such a cross, hence its name. The cross does not have to be at this particular angle to qualify as a saltire; the symbol X can also be considered a St. Andrew's Cross.
Iron Cross
From its rich military heritage in the Prussian and German armies as the primary award for bravery to its common display on vehicles and as a fashion statement, the Iron Cross is both misunderstood and appreciated by many.
The Iron Cross was created by an architect named Karl Schinkel, and was awarded in 1813 for the first time.
The Iron Cross was also used as the symbol of the German Army from 1871 to 1915, when it was replaced by a simpler Greek cross. In 1956, the Iron Cross became the symbol of the Bundeswehr, the German armed forces. The traditional design is black and this design is used on armored vehicles and aircraft. A newer design in blue and silver is used as the emblem in other contexts.
It was a German medal awarded for outstanding bravery or service during wartime.
Cross Of St. James
Such pointed crosses are said to have been carried in ancient times by Christian pilgrims, to thrust securely into firm ground.
They would then kneel before this upright cross for prayer. The Cross of St. James is also seen as a spear or sword blade (fitched) making this a warrior's cross.
It is most frequently depicted in red.
Square and Compasses (Symbol Of Freemasonry)
Some Lodges and rituals explain these symbols as lessons in conduct: for example, that Masons should "square their actions by the square of virtue" and learn to "circumscribe their desires and keep their passions within due bounds toward all mankind". However, as Freemasonry is non-dogmatic, there is no general interpretation for these symbols that is used by Freemasonry as a whole.
Thus some take the Letter 'G' to represent Goodness, the essential goodness of Freemasonry and of humankind. Others argue that the letter 'G' stands for Geometry the basis of the operative craft that gave birth to modern Freemasonry.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Scarab (Ancient Egyptiann Symbol)
Called the dung beetle because of its practice of rolling a ball of dung across the ground. The Egyptians observed this behavior and equated it with the ball of the sun being rolled across the sky. They confused this balled food source with the egg sack that the female dung beetle laid and buried in the sand. When the eggs hatched the dung beetles would seem to appear from nowhere, making it a symbol of spontaneous creation. In this role it was associated with the sunrise. Khepri was the scarab headed god.
It seemed to the ancient Egyptians that the young scarab beetles emerged spontaneously from the burrow were they were born. Therefore they were worshipped as "Khepera", which means "he was came forth." This creative aspect of the scarab was associated with the creator god Atum.
Lotus Flower ( Ancient Egyptian Symbol)
The lotus closes at night and sinks underwater. In the morning it re-emerges and blooms again. Thus the flower became a natural symbol of the sun and creation. In Hermopolis, it was believed that it was a giant lotus blossom that first emerged from the primordial waters of Nun and from which the sun-god came forth (portrayed in the image at left). As a symbol of re-birth, the lotus was closely related to the imagery of the funerary and Osirian cult.
Coptic Cross
The Coptic Church is the Christian church of Egypt, established by Mark in the 1st century . The church now also has dioceses elsewhere in Africa and the Near East. The early Gnostics and Copts adapted the Egyptian Ankh Cross as the basis of its emblem, which then evolved as the region's history changed.
Old Coptic crosses often incorporate a circle; sometimes large, sometimes small. The circle was inherited from the Ankh, where it originally depicted the Sun God. For the Coptic Church, the circle represents the eternal and everlasting love of God. It also symbolises Christ's resurrection.
The coptic alphabet is variant of the greek alphabetcontaining a number of extra letters which come from
the egyptian script. the coptic alphabet came into being
during the 1-3rd century BC after the greek conquest of egypt
and the subsequent spread of the indigenous form of christianity
(coptic orthodox christianity). according to tradition, the apostle
mark established in egypt in the middle of the first century CE
(approximately 60 AD). coptic crosses reflect a number of historic
influences including greek, latin, egyptian, and celtic design
elements.
Baptismal Cross
Baptismal Cross is consisting of the Greek Cross with the Greek letter "X", the first initial of the title "Christ," this Cross is a symbol of regeneration, hence, its association with Baptism.
The Dove Symbolism
Symbol of the Holy Ghost and used especially in representations of our Lord's Baptism and the Pentecost. It also symbolizes the release of the soul in death, and is used to recall Noah's dove, a harbinger of hope.
Doves are sacred to all Great Mothers and Queens of Heaven and depict femininity and maternity; often two Doves accompany the Mother Goddess.
In ancient Greek myth, it was the Dove was the bird of Athena which represented the renewal of life.
Pisces
Pisces has an instinctive connection with life beyond space and time such that ordinary daily life can seem a burden. As an actor on the stage can lift an audience out of itself so can Pisces give life by infusing this world with intimations of another.
Aquarius
Under the tropical zodiac, the Sun is in Aquarius roughly from January 20 to about February 19.
Aquarius has ideas to take humanity out of its restriction to the social order into a wider sense of community. Values freedom and equality, encouraging others to claim what it considers is their due.
Capricorn
Under the tropical zodiac, the Sun enters Capricorn by definition at the moment of winter solstice, or roughly at December 22, and leaves it around January 19.
Capricorn is content to work within the social order in which it finds itself and seeks success therein. A great sense of responsibility and a determination to complete any project once started. Seeks tangible results.
Sagittarius
Under the tropical zodiac, the sun enters Sagittarius around November 23 and exits by definition at the moment of winter solstice, or around December 21.
Sagittarius strives for what is beyond day to day human experience, whether it travel to distant lands, broadening knowledge by education or by exploring the spiritual dimension of life.
Scorpio
Individuals born when the Sun is in this sign are considered Scorpio individuals. Under the tropical zodiac, the Sun enters Scorpio around October 23 and exits around November 22.
Scorpio needs to delve beneath appearances to reality. Nothing superficial will do. Try small-talk and Scorpio will move away to look for more fertile pastures where its emotional intensity can be engaged.
Libra
Under the tropical zodiac, the Sun enters Libra on the moment of autumnal equinox by definition, or around September 22, leaving it around October 24.
Libra, symbolised by a pair of scales, has an ideal of peace, balance and harmony in all life. A pity reality rarely matches this ideal for long. The desire for relationship is strong, but like all air signs Libra has a problem with the emotional complexities therein.
Virgo
Under the tropical zodiac, the Sun is in Virgo roughly from August 23 to September 23, leaving it at the moment of autumnal equinox, by definition.
Virgo's great gift is the ability to discriminate between what is useful and what isn't. It is at home with the details that others find boring. When Virgo relates to you an important occasion you may boil with frustration waiting for the relevant conclusions to emerge from the carefully ordered account of events leading to them - Virgo knows what is useful but bores you with the details anyway.
Leo
Individuals born when the Sun was in this sign are considered Leo individuals. The Sun is in Leo roughly from July 23 to August 23.
Leo radiates warmth, light and goodwill like the Sun which rules it - and likes it if you notice it doing so! Leo at its best is confident and decisive, has an overall perspective on life and can bring out the best in others.
Cancer
Under the tropical zodiac, the Sun enters Cancer on the moment of summer solstice by definition, or roughly on June 22, leaving it around July 23.
Cancer is the home and family lover of the zodiac. The break-up of families and the use of houses as just somewhere to live rather than places to create real homes is painful, and leads to the forging of alternative families in other settings so that the feeling of being at home can be enjoyed.
Gemini
Under the tropical zodiac, the Sun is in the sign of Gemini roughly from May 21 to June 21, ending at the moment of summer solstice by definition.
Gemini takes an interest in anything initially but gets easily bored. A seeker after information, passing it on to others whether or not it's worth the trouble. A winner if clear thinking is what is needed in a crisis.
Taurus
Under the tropical zodiac, the Sun is in Taurus roughly from April 21 to May 21.
Taurus enjoys the sensual world for it's own sake (compare Virgo which has to do something with it). Down to earth, pragmatic, will stubbornly pursue a task to completion without deviation once it has the impetus to get going (which may take a while).
Aries
Aries gets things started and then pursues them with gusto (but maybe not much practical common sense). Life is like a battle to be entered into and won. Your will must prevail. All is possible. If impossible it just takes a little longer (or so you believe).
The Ascendant
Therefore, it's the moment of the day when one is born that determines one's Ascendant.
The nuances brought by the Ascendant to the general characteristics of the sun Sign are by no means negligible. The Ascendant modifies and particularizes the sun Sign. For instance, a Sagittarius individual with the Ascendant in Aries is not the same personality as another a Sagittarius individual but with the Ascendant in Pisces . The former will be inclined by the Ascendant Aries toward dynamism, heroism, and confrontation, whereas the latter will be inclined by the Ascendant Pisces toward more ponderation, moderation, and reverie.