Most of us wonder and think about powers that challenge humans in strange and mystical ways. Yet, the need for protection has affected every human being throughout time. From the ancient Greeks to Indigenous tribes, Celts and Vikings to Pagans, Wiccans, and Christians, ancient symbols of protection are used to navigate the unknown, what we fear, and what we perceive as evil.
If you are interested in protective symbols, there is plenty to explore. The places and cultures where the characters originate can give more insight. Some of the symbols emerge from earth-bound connections, mythology, and others from the darker side of our psyche.
Ancient, Spiritual Symbols of Protection
Native Americans and other indigenous cultures connect intensely to the earth. In these cultures throughout North- and South America, animal spirits are used as protective symbols. These are the most common ones:
- Eagles are a symbol of courage, wisdom, and strength
- Deer show the way to safety, gentleness, prosperity, and shelter
- Gila monster portrays preservation and survival
- Dragonfly is a sign of happiness, speed, purity
- Thunderbirds are related to lightning, rain birds, and a powerful spirit
In addition to spirit animals, Native American tribes believe in other symbols of protection such as:
- Arrows: symbolize defense and protection. An arrow pointing to the left keeps away evil; an arrow pointing to the right also represents protection; the arrow facing downward represents peace. Arrowheads signify alertness and direction.
- Cacti: are the embodiment of warmth, protection, and endurance, as well as maternal love that endures regardless of harsh conditions and circumstances
- Drums: a central part of all Native American ceremonies, are the means to communicate with the Great Spirit.
- Eagle feathers: used during sacred rituals and prayer, represent the truth.
- Medicine bags – usually made out of animal hide, contain items such as a pipe, minerals, tobacco, sage, and other protective items. In ancient times, medicine bags were thought to have the power to protect in times of battle and war.
Egyptian, Celtic, Christian and Greek Symbols of Protection
Ancient Celts also have a deep belief in animal spirits. The bull is a sign of wealth, status, and fertility, and the salmon symbolizes wisdom and the sanctity of life.
While cultures have their unique protective symbols, some reach across traditions, such as the cross, wreaths, hands, and eyes.
- Cross: Usually associated with Christianity and the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, and a sign of benediction, the cross also has significance in other cultures. The ancient Egyptian ankh represents life, with the rounded top symbolizing a mirror of self-reflection. The Greek cross represents the four directions of the earth, as does the cross in Native American Cultures.
- Eyes: are a crucial protective symbol in ancient Egyptian culture. The Eye of Horus, resembling the right eye of the falcon God Horus, and the Eye of Ra, or the Sun God, represent the universe, masculine/feminine energies, and the sun and moon. The Eye of Horus is considered protective and healing, and the eye as a universal protective symbol is also in the Masonic eye and the modern pharmaceutical symbol.
- Believed to ward off the “evil eye,” the protective symbol of the hand, or Khamsa, is worn around the neck or hung on the walls. The Khamsa can be traced to the Middle East with roots in Arabic, Hebrew, (and later North African) cultures + ancient Egypt and some Christian sects. Wreaths harken back to early Christianity, from the choice of the kind of branches, to the shape itself. When a wreath is displayed on a door, the symbol stands as an invitation for the spirit of Christ to enter the home. Others associate the wreath with Ancient Rome, which was hung on doors after a victorious battle. For most people, wreaths are a symbol of the circle of life, as well as the evergreen, which represents resiliency through harsh conditions.
Protective Symbols in Pagan and Occult Cultures
In addition to the protective symbols of religious associations, they also stand at the center of many Pagan, Wiccan, and occult beliefs. For example, the Wiccan practice of walking labyrinths signifies the entire life cycle and a protective path as one cannot get lost in a maze; there is always a way in and a way out. For the Norse tradition, Yggdrasil, the tree of life, is a protective representation of a universal and central connection. Other pagan and pre-Christian symbols include:
- Viking symbols of protection such as the Helm of Awe, whose eight-pronged trident protects against hostile forces, and Thor’s Hammer, the symbol of protection of humans, as well as blessings for marriages.
- Wicca The pentagram, a five-pointed star, is thought to ward off witches and demons while elevating spirit over matter.
- While generally thought of as a cute Christmas decoration, Mistletoe has deep Celtic roots and is considered a protective symbol for everything from love to livestock and babies.
- Norse Symbol: The Helm of Awe
Protective symbols stem from the desire for a more expansive relationship to all the universe offers – From the good to the dark or the in-between. The importance that protective symbols in ancient and modern cultures have in our lives shows there’s a level of humility toward powers larger than us. When life gets complicated and challenging, accessing our shared protective symbols can serve as the ultimate spiritual lighthouse, helping to guide us through life’s uncertain waters.