Significance of Symbols

[Vide]

How much emphasis should be placed on the meaning of symbols? For example, a swastika is not an inherently "evil" symbol, but we choose to associate it with naziism. There are certain cultures, however, where the swastika or reverse swastika are religious symbols of peace.

What meanings should we accept for these symbols?
To what extent are these meanings important? Are they worth preserving?

[peaccenicked]

THe swastika is a hate symbol but is also used for shock value. In india the symbol would have a different cultural meanings for many. The meanings of symbols change historically and geographically.

[RedCeltic]

It's interesting because I've seen them steal other symbols for their own too. For example, there is a Neo-Pagan group named Asatru which practices Norse religion. You can often pick up on someone who practices this religion as many wear what is known as a "Thor's Hammer"

However It has come to my knowledge that some Nazis are now using this symbol for their own use. So I'm sure that the Asatru Alliance (and other groups) must be worried about this trend.

I have seen Nazis use something called an Othala ( looks like an X with an upside down V on top) : a Norse rune stone associated with the "Elder Futhark" the runic alphabet which is a composite of the runic symbols most commonly used in northern Europe.

Here is it's meaning:

Inherited property or possessions, a house, a home. What is truly important to one. Group order, group prosperity. Land of birth, spiritual heritage, experience and fundamental values. Aid in spiritual and physical journeys. Source of safety, increase and abundance. Othala Reversed or Merkstave: Lack of customary order, totalitarianism, slavery, poverty, homelessness. Bad karma, prejudice, clannishness, provincialism. What a man is bound to.

To a lesser extent I have also seen another Rune symbol being used by Nazis... it looks like a Y but with an extra arm in the middle of the V part. It's called a Algiz

It's meaning in the Elder Futhark:

Protection, a shield. The protective urge to shelter oneself or others. Defense, warding off of evil, shield, guardian. Connection with the gods, awakening, higher life.It can be used to channel energiesappropriately. Follow your instincts. Keep hold of success or maintain a position won or earned. Algiz Reversed: or Merkstave: Hidden danger, consumption by divine forces, loss of divine link. Taboo, warning, turning away, that which repels.


(Edited by RedCeltic at 10:59 pm on June 20, 2002)