Sheela na gig, also spelled “Sheela-na-gig,” is a kind of architectural figure depicting a naked woman gesturing or displaying an exaggerated vulva. These architectural grotesques are commonly carved in stone and are sometimes paired with male figures. It is believed that Sheela na gigs, or “Sheela” for short, were used to ward off death, demons, and all things evil; as in apotropaic magic,…
The fasces was a bundle of wooden rods or sticks bound together by leather thongs or a red strap. The sticks were usually birch or elmwood and contained an ax with its blade projecting. If you want to learn more about the Fasces symbol, read on to find out the meaning, history, and significance of…
Jaguar is the god of the underworld in Mayan mythology, representing darkness and the night sun. He was revered by the Mayans along with the snake god, Kukulkan. He symbolizes power, ferocity, and valor. If you want to learn more about the Jaguar symbol, read on to find out the meaning, history, and significance of…
Kukulkan is the feathered snake god that was worshipped by the Yucatec Maya people in what is now Mexico. In the Mayan folklore, Kukulkan is a winged serpent that flies to the sun and speaks to it. This important Mayan deity is also depicted as an evil, giant serpent that is said to be the…
The ancient Mayan people had such high regard for the sun. The sun symbol is known as Ahau, also spelled Ajaw, which is said to mean ‘teacher’ or ‘the light of knowledge.’ This makes Ahau symbolic of awareness, clarity, and ascension. If you want to learn more about the Ahau (ajaw) symbol, read on to…
Swastika was one of the most popular Norse symbols and not just a Germanic symbol. Read on to find out the history and meaning of Swastika symbol.