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Ichthys -

The ichthys, also referred to as the Jesus fish, was used by various ancient civilizations including the Greeks, Romans, and pagans before early Christians embraced it. As the offspring of Atargatis, an ancient sea goddess, the ichthys symbol was associated with fertility and women.

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Evil eye -

The evil eye, found in various cultures of the Mediterranean, is believed to be a curse resulting from a malevolent stare, typically targeting an unsuspecting individual. The earliest known instances of the evil eye can be traced back to ancient Greece and Rome.

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Hammer and sickle -

Originally adopted during the Russian Revolution, the symbol signifies the unity between industrial and agricultural laborers. The hammer symbolizes workers, while the sickle represents peasants. The emblem stands for proletarian solidarity and cooperation.

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The cross -

The cross symbolizes the crucifixion of Jesus in Christianity worldwide. The red cross is a well-known symbol for medical and humanitarian relief workers.

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Pentagram -

An ancient symbol used by Wiccans and in paganism, the pentagram is made up of five points. The upward point represents a spiritual being, such as Gaia or Mother Earth. The other four points represent wind, water, earth, and fire. Often found in ancient amulets and jewelry, it was believed to protect against evil.

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Yin and yang -

The yin and yang symbol is fundamental in Chinese philosophy, signifying ideal equilibrium. Mainly associated with Taoism, it represents two halves that, when joined, create an encompassing unity.

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Star of David -

A representation of Jewish identity and faith, the Star of David takes the form of a hexagram, consisting of two equilateral triangles joined together. This emblem emerged as a decorative motif in synagogues dating back to the 4th century, as well as in Christian churches situated in the Galilee region

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Pi -

Π is a mathematical symbol that represents a constant, denoting the ratio of a circle's circumference to its diameter. Additionally, it is the 16th letter in the Greek alphabet.

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The heart -

This symbol of love and affection, with an elusive historic origin, dates back to the end of the Middle Ages and serves as a metaphor for the heart.

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The double-headed eagle -

The double-headed eagle dates back to the Bronze Age and has often been used as a symbol by major empires in history. It has been used by the Holy Roman Empire, Serbia, Albania, and Russia since the 13th century.

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Ankh -

Often called the key of life or the key of the Nile, the ankh symbol was a representation of eternal life in ancient Egypt. Some interpretations suggest that it may be considered the earliest form of a cross.

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Fleur-de-lis -

This emblem has been used by several European countries. However, it is strongly linked with French monarchy and has also symbolized French saints.

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Star and crescent -

The star and crescent has been used in different historical contexts, notably as a symbol of the Ottoman Empire. Presently, it is widely acknowledged as the symbol of Islam.

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Mandala -

The mandala, a geometric pattern representing the universe and wisdom, is frequently seen in Western coloring books but holds significance in Buddhism.

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Skull and crossbones -

The skull and crossbones symbol, typically associated with warning labels for hazardous substances, piracy, and danger, traces back to the Late Middle Ages when it was used as a symbol for death.

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Caduceus -

The symbol of Hermes and Mercury in Greek and Roman mythology is a winged staff with two snakes. Primarily used in medicine, it gained popularity through the US Army Medical Corps in 1902.

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The tree of life -

The tree of life, regarded as a symbol representing limitless vitality and perpetual rejuvenation, is believed to have originated in Central Asia before being adopted by different civilizations. It holds significance in several religions and philosophies, including Scandinavian mythology and Altai shamanism.

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Ampersand -

The ampersand, also known as the "and sign," originated as a ligature of the letters et, Latin for— you guessed it—"and."

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The phoenix -

The legendary "fire bird" is connected to the worship of the Aztec sun god, Huitzilopochtli, symbolizing rebirth, resurrection, and immortality.

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Peace sign -

The peace symbol, widely recognized today, was created in the 1950s by Gerald Holtom as a symbol for the British Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament. It was subsequently embraced by anti-war and counterculture advocates during the 1960s.

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Circles -

The basic circle has been noted in the Moon and the Sun, and its existence predates recorded history. Within mathematics, the exploration of circles has influenced the advancement of geometry, astronomy, and calculus.

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Dragons -

The dragon, a highly esteemed symbol in Asian culture, embodies strength, power, wisdom, luck, and magic.

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All seeing eye -

Often misused as a symbol of control and surveillance, this symbol of God represents spiritual sights and higher knowledge. Depicted on the US one-dollar bill, the all seeing eye is believed to have originated in ancient Egypt.

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The dove -

The white dove, revered in major world religions like Christianity, Judaism, and Islam, symbolizes peace, grace, and divinity. Its historical significance dates back to ancient Mesopotamia.

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The lion -

The lion is commonly referred to as the "king of the jungle" and is traditionally associated with bravery, dignity, monarchy, and power. Additionally, it holds significance in Judeo-Christian beliefs.

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Trinity knots -

The Celtic trinity knots, dating back to the 6th century, symbolize faith and devotion with their three points representing the Holy Trinity.

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The owl -

Recognized as a symbol in various cultures, the owl's historical prominence can be attributed to its constant association with Athena, the Greek goddess of learning. Consequently, the owl is closely linked with themes of education, intelligence, and wisdom.

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Square and Compasses -

The Square and Compasses are emblematic tools used in Masonic rituals to convey symbolic lessons. They represent the architect's profession and are widely recognized as symbols of Freemasonry.

Sources: (HuffPost) (BBC)

See also: Decoding the symbolism of Freemasonry

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