November, 2007

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Threes in Myth – The Sisters

Friday, November 9th, 2007

The trinity symbol is found through history and appears in countless cultures as it deals with the power of three combined.

The trinity knot also represents cosmic three sisters – specifically the mythological sisters known as the “Three Fates” other terms for the three sisters are:

  • The three Moirae in Greek mythology
  • The three Parcae in Roman mythology
  • The three Norns in Norse mythology

Other pages of interest:

Celtic Triquetra Symbol Meaning

Celtic Triskelion Symbol Meaning

Celtic Knot Meanings

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Symbolic Meaning of Lions

Thursday, November 8th, 2007

Known as regal beasts, it’s comes to no surprise that symbolic meaning of lions deals with:

  • Strength
  • Nobility
  • Determination
  • Intensity
  • Courage
  • Conquest
  • Pride
  • Protection
  • Authority

However, many are unfamiliar with the symbolic meaning of lions dealing with resurrection and conversion.  This meaning comes from the observation of newborn lion pups.  Newborn lions were once believed to be born dead, and only came alive when the father passed its breath upon the pup.  This was symbolic in Christian tradition as the father lion represented the Christ and his essence (breath) flowing into the children of the earth awakened their spirits to the light of God.

As an alchemy symbol, the lion takes on many representations.  In alchemical texts, a red colored lion indicates sulphur which represents the multiplicity of human nature and the eternal aspiration to reach enlightenment.  When illustrated in green, the alchemical lion indicates matter that which is the basic starting point of transformation.

African aboriginal legends state that the lion never closes its eyes when it sleeps.  This provides symbolism of cunning, strategy, intelligence, protection and wariness. 

When the lion appears to us in dreams, it is often a sign that we have a need to place ourselves in a more prominent position.  Often the lion comes in our dreams when we are not being respected in our lives, and we need to advance ourselves in positions of respect and authority. 

Lions can also be dream symbols telling us we need to get in touch with our passions or emotions, and we made need to tame these emotions if they are running unchecked.

In esoteric studies, the lion makes its appearance in the Tarot where it is illustrated in the Strength card of the Major Arcana.  More symbolic meaning of the lion from the Tarot perspective can be found here: Tarot Symbolism of the Lion

As an astrological symbol the lion is identified by the sun sign of Leo.  In the Leo sign we find such attributes as:

  • Passion
  • Generosity
  • Loyalty
  • Influential
  • Leadership
  • Determination

I’ve created an entire webpage devoted to more information on the symbolic meaning of lions here.

Don’t miss this informative page on Lion Tattoo Symbolism here.

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Sanskrit Symbol Meanings in Center of Chakras

Wednesday, November 7th, 2007

I get this question allot: ”what are the symbol meanings in the center of chakras?”

The symbols are actually writing called Sanskrit.  The meaning of each Sanskrit symbol is given below according to each chakra.

From Root to Crown, the Sanskrit symbol meanings within the chakras are as follows:

  

Chakra                  Sanskrit Symbol Meaning 

Root                           Ambition
Sacral                         Desire
Solar Plexus                Virtue
Heart                         Compassion
Throat                        Reflection
Third Eye                    Perception
Crown                         Realization

I also direct inquiries to my Charka Symbol Meanings page as well as my  Chakra Summarypage for more information on the chakra system.

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Tau Symbol Meaning

Wednesday, November 7th, 2007

I was recently asked about the Tau symbol meaning (image of Tau seen left), to which I respond:

In the strictest definition, this symbol is a representation of the 19th letter of the Greek alphabet with a numerical vibration of 300.

However, taking the single-mindedness out of the task at hand (interpreting only the meaning of the Tau), we see many more symbolic meanings of the symbol itself (as a “T”), and these vary according to era, lore, culture, region.

For example, this symbol was shown to represent the crucifix in many European and Western religious traditions.

It was also thought to symbolize a phallus in ancient Egypt and also believed to be a marker for holy waters.

We find this image in primitive/native man glyphs as a representation of the meeting place between earth and sky (horizon).  Consider the deeper meaning here – that which is above the horizon (or at the table top of the T) is known to our conscious minds.   That which is below the point of contact (the stem of the T) holds the mystery of the unknown. 

Mythology suggests this symbol is associated with the Roman god Mithras & Greek Attis.

The symbology of the Templar/Freemasons/Rosicrucian indicates the Tau represents the One God and It’s three attributes which are: Wisdom, Strength, Harmony.

The Tau is found in center circle of the Rosy Croix (rosy cross) - symbolizing the union of the subjective and objective – mysticism and the alchemical practice of the Great Work.

Kabbalistic references indicate the symbol holds to the mystical references of the number three and holds meanings such as: Creativity, Expansion, Magic, Intuition.

More literal focus on the Tau reveals its correspondence with the 22nd letter of the Hebrew alphabet & corresponds with Saturn. It also resonates with the World Tarot card within the Major Arcana

It’s an ancient symbol with lovely connotations.  If you’re really serious about tapping into its symbolism, I suggest you meditate upon the symbol to derive your own interpretations.  I also encourage you to do your own independent research on this symbol as my provisions only touch the surface of this symbol.

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Symbolic Meaning of Doves

Tuesday, November 6th, 2007

I’ve been asked about symbolic meaning of doves.  The following is my response:

Primary symbolic meaning of doves stem in ancient cultures due to their voices.  The dove’s cooing has lulled the ears of humanity for hundreds of years, and as such finds meanings such as comfort and reassurance.

The Native American (Pueblo, specifically) believed that the cooing of the Dove could coax the rain from the skies.  In fact, they believed the appearance of the Dove was a sign of rain to come.  Or, if during a dry spell, the Pueblo believed the Dove would lead them to water.

Other cultures such as the Ancient Celts, Picti, and Gauls believed the voice of the Dove was a mourning call.  When its cry was heard, this indicated a soul was passing from the earth in peace.

The Slavs believed the Dove carried the souls of the deceased to heaven. Gypsy folklore believes that Doves are soft, subtle messengers – winging their messages of love to our hearts from the spirit world.

In Christian traditions, the dove is considered a symbol of divinity as it is the representation of the Christ.  Also in ancient Christian lore the dove is considered a symbol for mother, specifically their virgin mother Mary.

By far, my research has lead me to conclude that the primary symbolism of the Dove is that of patience and tenderness.   Their voice along with the soft hue of their bodies, and the tender glow of their eyes – all lead to thoughts of softness, tenderness and symbols of love.

Please note that ultimately, symbolic interpretations are up to you to determine.  I can only give you traditional symbolism, cultural perceptions, and my own interpretations.   

That said, I’ve come to understand that our animal friends are just as willing and able to communicate as we are, but we must be open to their message.   Therefore, I would encourage you to invoke the spirit of the animals  directly and inquire as to the purpose of its appearance in your life. 

And lastly, because of all these softly inspiring attributes, the most withstanding meaning of Dove is hope.

More pages of interest for your contemplative moseying:

Dove Symbolism (full page on Whats-Your-Sign.com)

Bird Totems

Birds in Dreams

Celtic Bird Signs

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Two Common Symbols for Clarity

Tuesday, November 6th, 2007

Circle up for Clarity


The concept of “clarity” is such a one, so finding one single “symbol for clarity” is a tall order.  This request reminds me of my response to the question: “what’s the symbol for visualization?”  Again, this is such an expansive concept, obtaining one universal symbol to represent it is an impossibility.

Further, concepts such as clarity, consciousness, or visualization are very personal, and as such, they morph according to personal perspective.  Ultimately these concepts are infinitely vast and pinning one single symbol for clarity or visualization limits the possibilities of visual expression.

However, we can take a look at some very basic symbols for clarity that give us some visual reference to the concept of the universe…

Since the beginning of man’s own development the universal symbol for clarity – or more aptly – the symbol of mans “awareness”  of himself within the construct of the universe has been the circle.

Furthermore, the circle has unanimously captured the totality of man’s psyche in relation to it’s dovetailing into the cosmic consciousness.

Another historical symbol for clarity is the triangle (tipped upright) as it is a visual emblem of ascending the din of life and reaching life’s peak – leading us to experience the clarity that awaits us there.

To illustrate, the triangles two lower (horizontal) points symbolize that humanity is inevitably of 2 minds (black/white, good/evil, less/more, high/low) – duality being a constant of mankind. 

Then, as the lines of the triangle move upward to the peak it symbolizes man obtaining:

  • higher thought
  • aspiration
  • inspiration
  • enlightenment 
  • one-ness of mind

We see here that man gains acceptance of his own duality, and finally becomes CLEAR and is resolved into one mind – one thought, cosmic consciousness.  Clarity has been achieved.

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Twin Dragons and Other Thoughts on Dragon Symbolism

Monday, November 5th, 2007

I recently got an email from an individual who continually saw twin dragons in her life.  I respond by citing points on dragon symbolism as well as elaborting on the message meaning of twin dragons:

Dear Dragon Lady:

The most symbolic trademarks of the Dragon is:

  • strength
  • creativity
  • courage 
  • passion
  • fortitude
  • mastery

Dragons are also messengers of balance, and magic.  They enccoure us to tap into our psychic nature and see the world through the eyes of mystery and wonder.

More specifically, Dragons are the embodiment of primordial power – the ultimate ruler of all the elements. This is because the Dragon is the master of all the elements: Fire, Water, Earth, and Wind.   Specifically, many ancient Chinese dragons were established as symbols of these natural elements.

The Dragon serves as a powerful guardian and guide. Encourage communication with your Dragon, and acknowledge your Dragon’s presence as often as possible.

That you are seeing twin Dragons is a sign that all the wonderful attributes the Dragon carries are DOUBLED in your life.

Dragons are incredibly diverse, adaptable and intelligent.  Seeing two of them could also be a message that many opportunities are coming to you that will allow you to branch out in new, diverse directions.

When it comes to all the things we aspire to do, have and be in life – Dragons are powerful symbols because they represent the very best of all life has to offer us.

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Spiritual Meaning of Number Zero

Monday, November 5th, 2007


Zero Reflections

Zero Reflections

I’m always getting questions about the spiritual meaning of numbers in general, but it occurred to me I had not published anything on the spiritual meaning of number zero.  So here we go…

The symbolic meaning of number zero alludes to:

*Mystery
*Nothingness
*Infinity
*Potential
*Possibility
*Eternity
*Reflection
*Void
*Totality
*Rebirth

Primarily, the spiritual meaning of zero deals with pure potentiality.  It is the point from which all other numbers spring forth.  Even visually – the number zero is symbolic of the seed, womb or egg from which pure potential emerges.

Because the zero also visually resembles a circle, this is symbolic of eternity, evolution, infinity.  Additionally, as with most symbols comprised or containing the circle we’re dealing with meanings of cycles, evolution, and time.  Think wheels here – “what comes around goes around.”

However, due to its numerical value, the zero may also be interpreted as a void – a representation of non-existence, and sometimes death.  But, again, our minds wander back to the symbolism of enternity and infinity as well as cycles and rebirth.  Consequently we may say there is no real death only another phase of life.

Mayan glyphs used the “cosmic spiral” to respresent the numeral zero – they inherently knew the massiveness of mystery swirling in the pools of zero-ness.

Pythagoras, (practically the father of numerology) viewed the sign of the zero as the container for all things and the birthing place of all other values (that which preceeds must be the birth giver of all that follows).  This is also the interpretation of the zero in Tarot numbers as well as other mystery school teachings.

Focus upon the zero is encouraged when we wish to be present in the moment, when we are trying to regroup our level of awareness.  This is because the zero is representative of the essence of reality.  It is everything and nothing at the same time.

As you can see – just from this brief summary, the concepts of the spiritual meaning of zero are heady indeed.  When we begin to contemplate zero we soon find ourselves on an endless adventure.

More data for your contemplative consumption:

Spiritual Meaning of Numbers (summaries)

Good Luck Numbers

Chinese Numbers and Meanings

Personality Numbers

Birth Numbers

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Finding Feathers on Your Path – Symbolic Meaning of Feathers

Saturday, November 3rd, 2007



It is commonly thought in most cultures that feathers are symbols of higher thought, spiritual progression.  The line of thought here is that birds were considered divine creatures in primitive/ancient cultures because they are creatures of the sky (heaven) and therefore closer to God.

When you find feathers upon your path it could be taken to mean that you are on a higher spiritual path (whether you accept it or not), and it may be a sign of encouragement as you philosophically travel on this path.

Finding feathers on your path is also symbolic of having a lighter outlook on life or a particulary situation.  When we see feathers in our midst it is considered a message that we need to lighten up, not take things too seriously, and try to find the joy in our situation.

Some common symbolic meaning of feathers are:

  • Heightened awareness
  • Light heartedness
  • Enlightenment
  • Prayer
  • Divinity
  • Progress

Dreaming of feathers in our midst is typically symbolic of wanting to achieve a higher goal, or overcome a challenge.  It is also a reminder from our psyche that we are always connected to our higher source, and that our own divinity is undeniable.

I have devoted an entire web page to the meaning of feathers which expands on this subject.  Here is the link:
www.whats-your-sign.com/symbol-meaning-of-feathers.html

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Symbolic Meaning of Pigs

Saturday, November 3rd, 2007



Symbolic meaning of pigs varies according to region & culture.

In earlier cultures such as ancient Egyptian the pig (sow, specifically) was considered a Great Mother and were symbols of fertility and abundance.  Here the pig was sacred to Isis, who embodied fertility.

To the ancient Celts, the (sow) pig was also honored as a mother provider figure.  Celtic lore tells of Manannan, who owned a heard of pigs that never dwindled – they were forever replinishing their numbers. As such, in Celtic symbolism pigs remained icons of abundance.

Also in ancient Celtic beliefs, the pig was associated with Ceridwen (or Keridwin) and Phaea who were both fertility moon goddesses.

The pig was also a symbol of virility, strength, and ferility in ancient Chinese cultures.   The boar is even among the animals in the Chinese zodiac where it is considered a symbol of sincerity, honesty, and determination.

In Hindu symbolism,  the pig is linked to Vajravarahi, the female consort of Vishnu.

The Greeks would sacrifice pigs to deities who pertained to farming and agriculture (Demeter, Ares, Gaia) this was to bring about bumper crops and insure favorable growing seasons.

Native American cultures (plains tribes) associated the pig as a harbinger of rains and as such, the symbolic meaning of pigs here is also linked to abudance, fertility and agriculture.

On the other hand, the pig is a symbol of ignorance in Buddhism.  Indeed, a black pig is illustrated on the Buddhist wheel of existence where it represents one of the three illusions of man in the Buddhist philosophy:

  • illusions of thought & desires
  • illusions innumerable as particles of dust and sand
  • illusions about the true nature of life

All of these are said to prevent man from attaining Nirvana in the Buddhist tradition.

The pig is a symbol of sloth (laziness) and/or greed in ancient Christian symbolism.

Jewish, Moslums and Islamic cultures view the pig as unclean and they are forbidden to eat pork.

In dream symbolism the domestic pig indicates fertility, yet a wild pig is a symbol of lust & overindulgence.  If in your dream you are feeding a pig, this is supposed to be a symbol of good luck.  If you are being attacked by a pig, it may be a message you are being materialistic or greedy about something.

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How To Read Number Meanings – A Sample Numerological Reading

Friday, November 2nd, 2007

One of the beautiful things about working with the meaning of numbers is that they can be manipulated in so many ways.

Using the spiritual meaning of number twenty six as an example for this numerological reading…

If we separate the number 26, we start with the number meaning of 2, which holds meanings of:

  • balance
  • duality
  • choice
  • change
  • partnership
  • combination
  • decisions
  • equality

Then we can go on to the number 6 which holds meanings of:

  • tolerance
  • dependability
  • patience
  • love
  • sincerity
  • compassion
  • forgiveness
  • knowledge
  • harmony

The common practice of numerology is to reduce the numbers.  To do this we take 2+6 = 8

The number meaning of 8 deal with:

  • success
  • continuation
  • business
  • wealth
  • cycles
  • longevity
  • patterns
  • opportunity

To derive personal meanings of this number – take each number meanings and apply them to your life.

For example – consider the number 2 meanings and ask yourself:

  • What choices you need to make in your life?
  • How are your relationships?
  • Do you need more balance in your life?

Number 6 questions you may ask:

  • Am I being sincere in my dealings with others – are others being sincere with me?
  • Is there a need for forgivness in my life?
  • Do I need to acquire more harmony in my life?

Or, if you chose to reduce your original number sequence…(in this case number 8):

  • What are my financial goals, and am I acting in-line with these?
  • What is my idea of success, and am I living a life that will assure this ideal?
  • What kind of opportunities are available to me right now?
  • What patterns are repeating in my life that I need to learn from?

From these questions you’ll begin to formulate a story in which you will flesh out a personal meaning for your number.

Because your number deals primarily with balance, and harmony – you may be inclined to apply this number meaning to your personal relationships.

Numbers can be beautifully simple and blindingly complex – it’s all in our interpretation and how we apply their meanings to our personal situations.

I always recommend playing with numbers.  Play with the meanings, add them up, subtract them, mix them up, draw them, journal them, dance with them.  Incorporate other tools in enhancing your knowledge of number systems.

It’s like solving a puzzle – numbers are congruent – eventually they will fall into place, and make meaning in your life.

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Symbolism of the Equal Armed Cross

Friday, November 2nd, 2007

Symbolic Meaning of the Cross

Symbolic Meaning of the Cross



 In ancient times, and still today the symbolism of the cross (specifically the equal-armed cross in which each protrusion is equidistant from the center as shown in the image left) is indicative of the human desire to know & experience the unfolding mystery of life. 

Primarily, the cross embodies the concept of unification between ethereal and material.

It was (still is) common for this symbol be worn at the level of the heart so that the wearer is intimate with the 4-fold concept the cross symbolizes which is: self, nature, knowledge, and God. 

One of the simplest symbols, it represents several things to different cultures.

The cross  was a symbol to the ancient Celts  representing the meeting place of the Divine energies (at the cross-section).

In ancient Greece, the cross was an emblem of the four elements.

As a Native American symbol the cross has several connotations according to tribe.  To the Hopi it is referred to as the ”cosmic cross” with the four bars representing north, south, east & west correspond to the outermost points on the horizon where the sun passes through the year

In the ancient Middle East, the symbol also represents the four directions (north, south, east, west) and the four winds.

The symbolism of the equal armed cross is even seen in several cards of the Tarot deck such as the:

These images are derived from esoteric mystery schools of thoughts and in this perspective, the symbolism of the cross is generally counted as an aspect of balance.

Related articles:

Celtic Cross Meanings

Mercury Symbol

Venus Symbol

Symbolism of Crossroads

Meaning of Four

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