The term is derived from the Sanskrit svastika, which means conducive to well-being, and it was long used by ancient societies including those in China, India, Native America, Africa, and Europe. SwastikaĪlthough today it’s viewed as a hate symbol, originally the swastika symbol had a positive meaning and prehistoric origins. Its symbolism is recognized almost anywhere in the world and continues to influence beliefs in astrology, divination, medicine, art and government. In some contexts, the yin and yang are seen as the qi or vital energy in the universe. While the yin represents female energy, the earth and darkness, the yang symbolizes male energy, heaven, and light. In Chinese philosophy, yin-yang represents two opposing forces, where harmony can only take place when there’s a balance between the two. In modern times, the pentagram is often associated with magic and witchcraft and is commonly used as charms for prayers and spells in Wicca and American neo-paganism. When the pentagram is set within a circle, it’s called a pentacle.Īn inverted pentagram signifies evil, as it’s thought to represent a reversal of the proper order of things. In 1553, it became associated with the harmony of the five elements: air, fire, earth, water and spirit. The five-pointed star, known as the pentagram, appears in the symbolism of Sumerians, Egyptians, and Babylonians, and was used as a talisman against evil forces. Nowadays, the ankh retains its symbolism as the key of life, making it a positive and meaningful symbol to be embraced by different cultures and religions.ĭue to interest in the mystical traditions of ancient civilizations, today the ankh has made its way into pop culture, the fashion scene, and jewelry designs. Later, it was used to symbolize the divine right of pharaohs to rule as the living embodiment of gods. During the Old Kingdom, it appeared on inscriptions, amulets, sarcophagi and tomb paintings. The Egyptian symbol of life, the ankh was depicted in the hands of Egyptian gods and goddesses. Of these symbols, a select few have been highly influential, and continue to hold their place as some of the most powerful symbols in the world. Many symbols have universal meanings shared by people from various backgrounds, while others have gained varying interpretations over the years. Some come from legends and mythologies, others from religion. For thousands of years, symbols have been used by different cultures around the world to represent their values and ideals.
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