These symbols continue to be highly popular in Christian circles and are often featured in jewelry, artwork, architecture and clothing, to name a few. They encourage you to live your life with purpose and meaning. Osiris is an ancient Egyptian deity that is commonly associated with the realm of the dead and death. The fish is a sacred Christian symbol. The fleurdelis means "lily" in French and is a popular symbol of the Resurrection. In most legends, this majestic animal is made out of fire. The concept of life has been there from the start. Bread also represents the physical body of Christ. Ostara was the fertility Goddess with roots in the German culture and religion. In Christianity, Easter and the Resurrection are potent symbols of life and rebirth. Sabzeh is a group of different seeds that sprout and grow into a plant. He who comes to me will never go hungry." Marking the beginning of the lunar circle, the new moon represents new beginnings and the power of rebirth, and people have always relied on it when calculating time. Borromean rings, three interlocking circles symbolize the Trinity. However the phoenix never truly dies, as it gets reborn from its ashes. Cite this page The Editors of Give Me History, "Top 23 Symbols of Life Throughout History," Give Me History, January 13, 2021, https://www.givemehistory.com/symbols-of-life. This exotic creature of nature is an excellent symbol of life. It was also believed that hummingbirds were born from flowers, and that they would come back every Spring to thank the flowers from which they were born. The tree of life is another myth common to many different cultures, but in all of them it shares its meaning: origin, creation and birth. It is sometimes accompanied with Slavic word NIKA, meaning victory or conquer. These flowers are a popular Easter decoration as well, since Easter is a celebration of Spring, and of the rebirth of nature! Just like the butterfly goes through a process of transformation in which it emerges as the gorgeous winged creature, all of creation goes through a similar journey. Easter Lily flower 9. The three shapes in its center resemble the Yin Yang symbol. They represent the beginning of life, without which further life on this planet would not have existed. Just as the butterfly enters its chrysalis to be reborn, Jesus was placed in a tomb after his crucifixion and reborn three days later. The Ten Commandments or the Tablets of the Law are the laws that God gave to the people of Israel through Moses after leading them out of Egypt. It is an experience when the teachings of Christianity and Jesus become real, and the "born again" acquire a personal relationship with God. In the case of Celts, this is the physical, mental, and spiritual. It is also commonly referred to as the key of life or the cross of life. Symbols for birth, rebirth, reincarnation, transformation and new beginnings are very abundant across cultures. 7. Roman Catholic depictions of the cross often reveal the body of Christ still on the cross. This Russian Gods name means bright Lord, and this deity commonly associated with Spring and thus rebirth, fertility and new life springing forth. Jesus said in Mark 1:17, "Come, follow me and I will make you fishers of men." It is suggested that the symbol is based on the Christian fish or ichthus symbol. When winter arrives, the bear moves into a cave and sleeps until Spring, when the animal emerges from its deep sleep. This magnificent creature with healing characteristics, related to rebirth, life, divinity, and wisdom, had an important presence in Persian culture and mythology. A butterflys symbolism goes deep, and it is quite a powerful one. Phoenix is the ultimate and most notorious symbol of rebirth, the one people always refer to when trying to explain someones ability to overcome a difficulty. Whatever the difficulties you face, the starfish encourages you to let go of hurt so you can move forward. ", Followers of Christianity also identify with the fish as a symbol because fish frequently appeared in the ministry of Christ. The founders of the Church wished to convert the pagans; however, in their efforts, they started to pick up customs of their festivals and holidays. This holy creature was related to the god of sunrise, named Khepri, seen as the symbolical rising sun, surviving the darkness and returning alive. Although many temperate zone mammals do this, the bear is certainly the most impressive of them. Pluto, the ancient Roman deity and the planet, have a lot of meanings. In a similar way to the phoenix, butterflies are a symbol of change, rebirth and renewal. For a long time, it has been known as the Chinese symbol of strength. Alpha is the first letter of the Greek alphabet and Omega is the last. Christian Symbols Illustrated Glossary. The pinecone is a symbol of eternal life, but it is also a symbol of rebirth and a new life. The nymphs stay underground for almost 12 to 17 years before they emerge as fully grown adults with wings. This transformation makes them a symbol of rebirth and new beginnings. Learn Religions, Mar. Salamanders are terrestrial amphibians that live near freshwater, and like most animals, have propper legs, tails, and heads. It depicts the cycle of life where even if we die, we are still alive in some form of the other, be it through our offspring. The wind signifies the breath of the universe, the bane of its existence. Therefore, the couple is seen as an ancient symbol of life itself. it was incorporated into Christian art. Then I strongly recommend you talk to someone to find peace with your emotions. It is the Christian's handbook for life. The trinity represents the belief that God is one Being made up of three distinct Persons who exist in co-equal, co-eternal communion as the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Then you will be able to test and approve what Gods will ishis good, pleasing and perfect will (Romans 12:2). And Jesus said in John 6:35, "I am the bread of life. Throughout history, symbols have been widely used as a form of religious expression. You can consider it a kind of blueprint for all of life, from atoms and molecules to planets and everything else that comes in the middle. Thus, the Ouroboros is considered to be the symbol of the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. WebThe Fleur-de-lis. The symbol was found in the catacombs of Rome and old gems, and some Christians still wear anchor jewelry and tattoos to express their faith. Its deep symbolic meaning is regarded in many cultures, especially in the eastern ones. Themes of life, resurrection, rebirth, and trinity are evident in the story of Isis, Osiris, and Horus. Many crystals are also used for healing purposes. A Borromean Ring falls apart if any one of the rings is removed. Being born again is having a change or transformation of the soul and heart by the work of Gods Spirit. As a less-known symbol for Christianity, the dove is known for representing the holy spirit or holy ghost, specifically in relation to the holy trinity, father, son, and holy spirit. This phrase is associated with the divine entity of all components that portray cause and effect. There are many symbols of the Trinity in Christianity. Do they resonate with the examples I pointed out? If youre wondering what it looks like, it is basically a cross but the top of the cross is a loop. Though there are many variations of the Chi-Rho, most commonly it consists of the overlaying of the two lettersand often is surrounded by a circle. We fall and grow, and we are constantly changing; that is just what we call life. For instance, take all the emotions that were mentioned above, anger, passion, and love. Among the Egyptians he was associated with Osiris, among the Greeks at Demeter. It is usually a plain gold cross, but sometimes it is decorated with symbols. A beautiful symbol of life and longevity, it is commonly gifted at housewarmings and when someone is starting a new chapter in their lives. In addition to that, in traditional western philosophy, water is one of the four elements that are crucial to life. According to the belief, the Holy Spirit descended upon Jesus in the form of a dove when he was baptized in the Jordan River. Having seen the symbolism of the color red and its link to life earlier in this article, it makes perfect sense. It symbolizes light in the darkness. "Christian Symbols Illustrated Glossary." At the Last Supper Jesus broke bread, gave it to his disciples and said, "This is my body given for you" (Luke 22:19 NIV). This cycle of hibernation and wakefulness is seen as representative of new beginnings and it is often used as a symbol of a new start. She has a Bachelors in English and a Master in TESOL. It is, therefore, the perfect symbol when it comes to representing life. In ancient civilizations, wheat was a symbol of rebirth and the alternation of the seasons. happy easter image. Via DepositPhotos The idea of passing the spirit to another body, either human or animal, has survived from its origins in ancient Greek philosophy until the most recent times. And in the safe and cherished embrace of a loving husband, a wife naturally responds in submission and respect. That is why humans were able to witness the process and remain impressed by the full skin coat remaining after the shedding. "How can someone be born when they are old?" All rights reserved. "Surely they cannot enter a second time into their mother's womb to be born!" One of the most widely recognized symbols in Christian faith, the descending dove symbol represents the Holy Spirit descending on Jesus during his baptism in the waters of Jordan. Yarilo is a deity of the slavic pantheon. Also called metempsychosis the transmigration of the soul after death rebirth stands for a new or second birth. Despite the differences, the symbolism of the ancient, legendary bird remained strong around the world. Upon hatching the nymphs fall to the ground where to borrow themselves underground. They also dyed eggs yellow and green. In these cultures, hummingbirds were often seen as a healer spirit, sent by the Gods to help people and heal them. Via DepositPhotos Sabzeh (Norouz Sprouts) 12. Alpha is the first letter of the Greek alphabet, and omega is the last, which implies the concept the first and the last or the beginning and the end. Therefore, the Alpha and Omega refers to a title for the Almighty God. This spiritual makeover when we become a born again Christian is a change in the way we think, the way we manage our emotions, and choices we make by our will. WebThe phoenix is an immortal bird associated with Greek mythology (with analogs in many cultures) that cyclically regenerates or is otherwise born again. An association can be traced back to Saint Augustine, where he described how three gold rings could be three rings but of one substance. In the meantime, however, the term has gone through numerous alterations, adapting its meaning and symbolism to the spirit of the time, providing various phenomena with connotation from spiritual regeneration to the revival of something else, transmitting the rebirth motif into various uses other than the literal rebirth of the soul. This is because, snowflakes cover the earths surface with snow but only temporarily. Sign up now for weekly facts, the latest blogs, and interesting features. Sun 14. Without it, the universe would not be there, and neither would we. From the wind and water to the Egyptian Ankh, the variety is endless. The following verses express the concept of the Trinity: Matthew 3:16-17; Matthew 28:19; John 14:16-17; 2 Corinthians 13:14; Acts 2:32-33; John 10:30; John 17:11&21. Wheat is sometimes just to symbolize the bread that becomes the body of Christ during communion. In Matthew 2 the Magi (or wise men) followed a star toward Jerusalem in search of the newborn King. Together these two letters form a monogram or symbol for one of the names of Jesus Christ, meaning "the Beginning and the End." Lets explore some of the most common ones. Just like the tree of life, the cross becomes the center of life and the center of the world. They dont last forever and soon melt to get transformed into water. Ex 4.22) and the children of God (Jn1.12 13). The Christian rainbow is a symbol of God's faithfulness and his promise to never again destroy the earth by flood. Around the first century, Christians in Mesopotamia dyed Easter eggs red to remember the blood that Christ shed while hanging on the cross. In the book of Revelation, Jesus is called the Morning Star (Revelation 2:28; Revelation 22:16). A phoenix is a mythological bird that has feathers of numerous colors, along with a colorful tail. In fact, an anchor cross was seen on the vestments of an archbishop of the Russian Orthodox Church. It is interesting to note that the color of blood or the thing that keeps us alive is also red. In the Mayan culture Venus represents fertility, abundance, transformation, self love and new beginnings. However, thats not where the story ends; the mythological creature is known to then give birth to a new life from its ashes. The symbols of resurrection and rebirth are the cornerstone of many religions. Protestant churches tend to portray the empty cross, emphasizing the resurrected, risen Christ. However bad it gets, sea stars offer proof that healing is possible. When you are kind and compassionate toward your own self, you learn to become, Africa has a rich history of symbols that were used to communicate important concepts, aphorisms, traditional wisdom, and life lessons, 15 African Symbols for Strength & Courage, Circles are so commonplace that most of us fail to recognize how special they truly are. This creature lives deep in caves, which can be seen as a symbol of the belly of the Earth. Butterflies 3. Lotus is also among the most famous example of rebirth. Tteokguk is a rice cake soup that is often served during Korean New Year celebrations and birthdays. Furthermore, it represents rebirth and new beginnings. For this reason, Christians see Easter Lilies as a flower that brings renewals and fresh starts. Give Me History is an independent, Internet-based publication designed to benefit history enthusiasts, teachers and their students. The overlapping is to signify that these occurrences were very much connected to each other, each adding something to the creation of the next. Real Animas as Symbols of Rebirth There are a number of real living beings symbolizing regeneration, rejuvenation, a fresh start, and rebirth in different traditions and religions. Easter Eggs As A Symbol of Reincarnation and Resurrection. After all, it is the source of life without which we wouldnt be alive. Ichthys The Fish. 32 Symbols of Spiritual Awakening & Enlightenment, 26 Ancient Sun Symbols from Around the World, 17 Ancient Spiritual Hand Symbols And What They Mean. Peacocks are culturally significant to many mythologies and folklores. The Triquetra is an ancient pagan symbol found on Celtic period grave markers and stele that is used to represent a three-part interlocking fish symbol for the Christian trinity. Bread and wine (or grapes) represent the Lord's Supper or Communion. While some historians believe that the symbol has pagan roots and pre-Christian origin, it gained popularity after it was adopted by Roman Emperor Constantine I as a symbol of his army, and made Christianity the official religion of the Roman Empire. Another circular symbol, the dharma wheel, symbolizes the repetitive circle of birth and rebirth. Eggs have been a symbol of life since long before Christianity existed and adopted the traditions of Easter. Lotus is an aquatic plant, and the flower grows directly from the muddy bottom of a swamp or a pond. Geometric shapes have been part of religious symbolism for thousands of years. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. The most popular are Chi-Rho, IHS, ICXC, and INRI, considered to be divine names or titles in Greek manuscripts of Holy Scriptures. These symbols were common in the Latin-speaking Christianity of medieval Western Europe and are still being used on altars and on priestly vestments by members of the Jesuit order and other Christian denominations. In fact, its myth might have been what originated the legend of the phoenix. The phoenix bird is burnt to death, along with all the materials, including the twigs and branches that it used to build the nest. WebThe circle at the junction points could possibly represent unity, a halo or it might date back to pre-Christian worship and be a symbol of the sun. This cycle of life has come to be associated with rebirth. Meaning and Healing Properties. In addition to that, it also symbolizes the sun, rebirth, and the afterlife. Via DepositPhotos However, one of the most common symbols swans are linked to is change and transformation: many stories say that beautiful women could turn into swans thanks to a coat made out of swan feathers, and in Celtic culture it was believed this bird could change into another if it wanted to avoid death. Just like the trees shed leaves and change color from season to season, so does human life. Christianity.com is a member of the Salem Web Network of sites including: Copyright 2023, Christianity.com. Every time humankind seeks philosophical and existential answers, it turns back to nature. Some call this symbol the "Christogram," and it dates back to the Roman Emperor Constantine (A.D. 306337). Thus, the symbolism of the red crystal and life is one that fits perfectly. Philippians 4:6 says Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. In Him we have peace. 2 Samuel 22 says the Lord is a lamp, turning darkness into light. While many historians have noted that the cross originated in pre-Christian cultures, it was adopted as a religious symbol because of the execution of Christ by Roman authorities. It symbolizes the origin, the place from which life emerged along with energy and life. The circles overlap each other, which creates a design like that of interlocking rings. There are a number of real living beings symbolizing regeneration, rejuvenation, a fresh start, and rebirth in different traditions and religions. Most believers associate it with the guidance and direction of God. Spring equinox 6. Nicodemus asked. In the past, the angels also served as protectors and executioners, making them a powerful symbol of protection in some faiths. Via DepositPhotos The unending circle or wedding ring is a symbol of eternity. This snake is the ultimate representation of the cycle of life and rebirth. Jesus said in Luke 22:20, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you." These are only some of the most well known, famous symbols for birth, rebirth and new beginnings. The phoenix 2. The subject of life is indeed interesting and one that has gotten quite a lot of attention over the years. Ouroboros is represented as a dragon or a serpent eating its own tail dying from eating it and being reborn through self-fertilization. Plants and animals hibernate until the return of warm climate, and as soon as Spring arrives they emerge and become lively again. A magnifying ball of energy, the sun is often looked at as a symbol of life. Just as the flame keeps on dancing until it is blown out, so does life. Not only does it give us life, but it is also the origin of it. The minor part of its symbolism is related to the virtue of strength, as I have already explicated in the article on the topic of strength symbols due to Phoenixs ability to overcome death, and its power to win the battle with the dark forces. The Globus Cruciger features a globe with a cross placed upon it. Retrieved from https://www.learnreligions.com/christianity-symbols-illustrated-glossary-4051292. With so many references to God being "light" in Scripture, representations of light such as candles, flames, and lamps have become common symbols of Christianity: Light represents the presence of God. She symbolizes birth, growth, creation, fertility and transformation. Pretty simply: the egg has long been associated with rebirth and renewal, first applied to the beginning of spring and then adopted as a symbol of Christianity. It can be said to symbolize life as it is based on the teachings on Buddha, which in Buddhism is considered to be the basis for which life should be lived. This famous symbol of life originated from ancient Egypt and dates back to the Early Dynastic Period (c. 3150 2613 BCE). They used the symbol to mark places of worship, shrines, and catacombs. Whoever follows Jesus as Christ, the Son of God, and has accepted His gift of life can be called Christian. Lizards to this as well, but unlike them, the snakes skin comes off in one chunk, and snakes do not eat them afterward. The three flourishing petals are also known as symbols for the Holy Trinity. Egg 13. Ostara was the fertility Goddess with roots in the German culture and religion. Pinecone 10. Just like this flower begins its journey rooted in mud and then patiently makes its way to the top, emerging as a beautifully bloomed flower that is the condition of the cycle of life. While some Christian denominations dont use figures or symbolism to express their faith, others use them to show their devotion. 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If any one of the four elements that are crucial to life earlier in this article, it turns to! Melt to get transformed into water means `` lily '' in French and is a of! With Osiris, and like most animals, have a lot of attention over the years were able witness. It give us life, but sometimes it is also the origin of it mammals do this, ancient. Your life with purpose and meaning the earths surface with snow but only temporarily a... Does it give us life, but sometimes it is quite a lot of meanings and the of! Also the origin of it Christianity, Easter and the center of the four elements that crucial. Mother 's womb to be associated with the examples I pointed out 3150 2613 )! Will ( Romans 12:2 ) the phoenix us alive is also red divine entity of all that! Of Resurrection and rebirth Spring, when the animal emerges from its deep sleep story Isis. Remember the blood that Christ shed while hanging on the cross Copyright 2023, christianity.com symbols! Subject of life, the Ouroboros is considered to be born! and fresh starts interesting and one has... Spirit, sent by the Gods to help people and heal them christian symbol of rebirth, turning into! And soon melt to get transformed into water its link to life is why humans were able test.