Creativity Unleashed: Where Imagination Meets Reality
Pisces individuals have brains that operate like kaleidoscopes of creativity. They're the modern-day magicians, transforming everyday life into vibrant art, music, literature, and more. It's like they're channeling inspiration from another dimension, and we're just lucky to witness the show.
Empathy and Compassion: Heartfelt Superpowers
Ever met someone who seems to have a radar for emotions? Chances are, they're a Pisces. These compassionate souls can sense feelings like they're picking up radio signals, and they never hesitate to lend a helping hand or a comforting word. Pisces folks are like the emotional superheroes of the zodiac.
Intuitive Wisdom: Navigators of the Soul
Pisceans possess an uncanny knack for seeing beyond the surface of things. They're the zodiac's life coaches, offering insights that make you wonder if they've secretly unlocked the secrets of the universe. Seeking advice from a Piscean is like consulting a spiritual guru, without the long mountain pilgrimage.
Adaptability: The Chameleons of Life
Pisces are water signs, which means they're fluid and adaptable, like chameleons of the zodiac. Life's changes don't ruffle their feathers; they embrace them like an old friend. Need a travel buddy for a spontaneous road trip? Call a Pisces.
Art of Escapism: Where Reality Meets Dreams
Sometimes, escaping reality is essential, and Pisceans are masters of this art. They have a built-in teleportation device to their dream worlds, a place of solace and rejuvenation. It's like having a vacation spot within their minds, complete with endless sandy beaches and cozy cabins.
Spiritual Connection: Dancing with the Mystical
Many Pisceans have an innate connection with the spiritual realm. They're the stargazers, crystal collectors, and tarot card enthusiasts who make the mystical seem as accessible as your morning coffee. Their spirituality adds an aura of magic to their lives.
Kindness and Generosity: Hearts as Big as the Ocean
Pisces individuals have hearts that are as vast as the ocean, and their generosity knows no bounds. They'll give you the shirt off their back, and then knit you a new one. Acts of kindness flow from them like a never-ending river of goodwill.
Natural Healers: Embracing the Role of the Caretaker
Pisces is often associated with healing, both physical and emotional. Many find their calling in healthcare, therapy, or counseling, using their empathetic and nurturing nature to mend the wounds of others.
So, there you have it, the Pisces sun sign—a magical blend of creativity, empathy, and whimsy that can turn any ordinary day into a fantastic adventure. In a world that sometimes feels like a black-and-white movie, Pisces adds the vibrant colors, the enchanting soundtrack, and just a sprinkle of stardust. They are the dreamers, the healers, and the emotional anchors we all need in our lives, making them truly great in every sense of the word. So, next time you meet a Pisces, dive into the depths of their world and bask in the splendor of their unique magic.
]]>Wouldn’t it be great if there were a magical force that could see the future, solve problems, or guide us when we deliberate over big life decisions? For many of us, our star sign provides that.
These days, the traditional life path no longer exists. That means that many of us are seeking reassurance elsewhere, looking to the stars to give us direction. We’ve all heard of the signs of the zodiac, but for many of us, their "power" is confined to the back pages of our favorite women’s magazines. Anyone who says they’ve never read their horoscope is probably not being fully honest; we think everyone has looked up their star sign and agreed or disagreed with how they fit the personality profile at some point. But where did the star signs originate?
The signs of the zodiac have been around for a long time, and they are deeply rooted in our history. What does each sign represent, and how does this reflect on you?
The Babylonians might have been the first to popularize the concept, back in around 1500 BC. They divided the year into seasons, and have also been credited with coming up with the basic units of time that we use in modern life. It was the Babylonians who realized that the sun and the planets could be used to measure time, and that their paths could divide time into 12 segments that we know as the signs of the zodiac; each is represented by a different constellation.
They noticed that there were times when the weather behaved one way - when the sun was closer to some constellations - and figured out that it took a full 12 lunar cycles before the sun reclaimed the same position. At that time, the star signs and constellations were used more for telling the time than for predicting what the future holds.
While the Babylonians take a lot of the credit, there is some evidence that they took some of the key ideology from the Egyptians, who had also noticed the link between stars and some weather conditions. Beyond that, it seems that the Greeks were the ones who made the links with destiny, giving the names to the signs of the zodiac we know today. The term "zodiac" means a “circle of animals,” which fits with the number of star signs that are represented by an animal.
A modern horoscope is a reading taken by looking at the position of the sun in relation to the stars. These snapshots are then interpreted to provide an insight for those born during each period.
Independence is a key character trait of Aquarians. They are intelligent and can be sensitive. Check out our Long Sleeved White Aquarius T-Shirt.
Pisceans are kind and sensitive by nature, and they are ready to show a lot of compassion.
Aries are known for their courage and bravery. They have a lot of ambition, and it is this focus that helps them to take risks to achieve their goals.
Like the bull that represents them, Taureans can be headstrong and stubborn. They are generally loyal and reliable.
Geminis are twice the fun! They are outgoing and fun, flexible and interested. Our Gemini T-Shirts are a striking representation of the sign, available in various color combinations.
Cancerians are an inquisitive bunch and are likely to be creative. They feel things deeply and usually have a lot of empathy.
Loyalty is the key trait of someone born in Leo. They are confident, which could be seen as arrogance.
Virgos are self-critical and worry a lot. They are meticulous with a keen eye for detail.
Libras are great fun to be around. They seek perfection.
Secrecy and privacy are important to Scorpians, and they are ambitious.
Sagittarians won’t mince their words; they are honest and blunt, which sometimes causes offense.
Capricorns are patient and persistent. They want to do well and will persevere.
]]>Norse mythology refers to the legends, folklore and beliefs held mostly by Scandinavian and North Germanic people during the Viking age (approximately 793-1066). For these people, the myths surrounding their gods and goddesses gave meaning to their lives. The intricate stories and rich characters of some of the most prominent gods were the basis for the values and traditions of the Vikings, most of which are still well-known today.
Let's take a look at who were the key figures in Norse mythology, what impact they had on the lives of the Vikings, and how we know and revere them today.
Legend has it that initially, there were two tribes of gods. First, there were the Aesir, who were viewed as more celestial and otherworldly with their connections to war, power, courage and the natural elements. Then there were the Vanir, who were linked to the earth and the everyday man with connections to harvest, fertility and the worldly planes. It is thought that the two tribes quarreled and battled for a time but eventually came to respect each other's divinity and lived separately but peacefully. Both tribes were worshiped, some by royalty and others by peasants.
Perhaps the strongest and most revered god, Odin is thought to have helped create the world itself by slaying a giant and using its corpse to make mountains. He is the god of war, death and wisdom. When Vikings died in war, they believed that they would drink with Odin in Valhalla - a great and noble hall that you gain access to when you die. In addition to being all-powerful, Odin was also incredibly wise and the father of the infamous Thor.
Frigg was the wife of Odin and is the god of fertility and marriage. Like many other gods and goddesses, her name was used to name the days of the week because of her connotations surrounding marriage; Friday is still thought of as the best day to get married. Although Odin was thought to be the god of wisdom, it is said that he consulted with his wife about many important matters and that on several occasions, she was able to outsmart him. Although she is revered for marriage and nurturing, she was unfaithful to Odin many times, including with his brothers. Because of this, opinions about her were often divided between those who focused on her positive attributes and those who believed she had loose morals.
The God of Thunder and son of Odin is probably one of the most well-known Norse gods in the modern world thanks largely to his appearance in the Marvel franchise. Not only is he popular, but he is strong. His mighty hammer (which can only be handled by those deemed as worthy) was thought to be capable of bringing down mountains and slaying giants. He was also thought to be the guardian of Asgard, which was the stronghold of all the gods and goddesses.
Loki was not considered a particularly strong or powerful character, but what he lacked in physical strength, he made up for in mental agility. He was known as a trickster and famed for his mischievous nature. However, he was not a god who should be underestimated and was responsible for many deaths of stereotypically stronger gods and goddesses through sheer cleverness and manipulation. He is also said to have had the unique ability to shapeshift. For this reason, he was a very powerful god in his own right.
Balder was one of the gods who fell victim to Loki's tricky ways. He was another son of Odin, half-brother to Thor, and was considered to be the god of light and purity. He was viewed by many as a kind, fair, merciful and handsome god - the epitome of all things wise and good. His one weakness was mistletoe, and it is believed that Loki carved an arrow from this deadly plant and arranged for it to be thrown into Balder's heart by his blind half-brother. The result was that this revered god fell dead.
Hel was Loki's daughter and goddess of the underworld - a place where all those who didn't die in battle were sent after death. She had deathly and decaying features that were befitting of her role, and it is believed that within her realm, she was even more powerful than Odin. This was especially reinforced by her involvement in deciding the fate of Balder (Odin's son) after his untimely and controversial death.
]]>In ancient Greece, tales of heroes, monsters, gods and goddesses formed an important part of people’s lives. They had an important function - to make sense of everyday events, from explaining religious rituals to shedding light on the weather. In short, they helped people understand the world around them.
When you think of Greek mythology, characters such as Athena, Poseidon, and Zeus spring to mind. There are also the characters who are regularly referenced in items we see everyday. These include Nike, the goddess of victory; the women warriors of the Amazon race; and snake-haired Medusa, who appears in the Versace logo.
These characters have more of a presence in our everyday lives than many of us realize, and there is no doubt that these characters of Greek mythology will survive for eternity. To keep these legends alive in our minds, let’s take a look at some of the most important and influential characters.
Odysseus is one of the most important characters in Greek mythology as he was the famous protagonist in Homer’s iconic The Odyssey. This 24-book poem follows the journey of the king of Ithaca, otherwise known as Odysseus, and his ten-year journey back from the decade-long Trojan War. This was a perilous journey filled with death and many challenges, including meetings with the likes of Poseidon, sirens and cyclops. Odysseus is renowned for using brains rather than brawn to defeat his opponents.
From infancy, Hercules was known for his great strength, but his tale turns out to be one of tragedy. Hercules was known as a demigod because he was born to a mortal mother called Alcmene and the Greek king of the gods, Zeus. The latter was married to Hera at the time and had an extramarital relationship with Alcmene, something that caused Hera to seek vengeance. Hera hated the idea of being constantly reminded of her husband’s infidelity, so she tried to cause the infant Hercules to be killed by snakes as he slept soundly in his cradle.
Hera did not know that Hercules had superhuman strength, and the baby managed to strangle the snakes in his cradle. She was not willing to give up on her murderous campaign, however, so she cursed an adult Hercules with madness, and this made him kill his wife Megara and his children.
After the deaths, Hercules went to visit Apollo, who was the god of healing, and was told that he would need to become the slave of King Eurystheus in order to repent. Hercules went to the king as instructed but Hera went to Eurystheus and convinced him that Hercules should be made to undertake 12 labors in order to prove himself.
Hercules embarked on these labors, but Hera was still not content to sit by and allow Zeus’ son to succeed. Instead, she made things as difficult as possible in the hope that he would fail the challenges and be destroyed. Hercules was stronger than she thought, however, and completed all 12 of his now-famous labors.
Zeus is the king of the gods and is also father to many characters in Greek mythology, including Ares, Athena, Artemis, Apollo, Dionysus, Aphrodite, Helen of Troy, Perseus, Eris, Persephone, Hebe, Hephaestus, and, of course, Hercules.
Hermes is the messenger of the gods, who was known for his winged helmet. The planet mercury is named after him, but this is not the only relevance he has in the modern world. Mercury rules Gemini, the third sign of the zodiac, which plays a daily role in many people’s lives and is a popular choice in our range of Gemini T-Shirts, which are available in a range of colours, including green and orange.
Hermes was Zeus’ personal messenger, and like many Geminis, is renowned for his social and communication skills. He was the god of language, communication and writing, as well as being a guide to the dead.
Hermes is not the only Greek god associated with the star signs. Ares has links with the sign of Aries, which is also featured in our range of astrological t-shirts. This collection includes a Purple Aries T-Shirt and a wide range of other colors.
The star sign Aries is ruled by Mars, and the vibrant red color of the planet was attributed by the Ancient Greeks to Ares. He is the god of war and the son of Hera and Zeus. He is renowned for his fiery temperament, energy and competitiveness, just as many Aries people are today.
]]>Whether you are a believer or a non-believer, many people are intrigued as to how their star sign affects their personality, their relationships and the type of person they are drawn to.
There are many facts and myths surrounding star signs, and many people simply find it fun to indulge in reading about their own star sign. However, often they will find similarities that are true to them and their lives, and this can leave them feeling both uneasy and amazed. Here’s why.
Many things contribute to your personality, including your surroundings, your upbringing and your genetic makeup, but also the time of year you were born and your sun sign.
If you were born at the start of a zodiac cycle or at the very end, you may display personality traits from both yours and the preceding or following sign. With billions of people in the world and only 12 star signs, it would be unrealistic to assume there are only 12 different types of personalities in the world. Whatever you believe, many people are committed to the idea that the movement of the sun at the time of our birth does impact our behavior to some degree.
It is not only the date and time of our birth that count but also the individual planet aligning with the sun at that exact moment.
What are the star signs, and what are the personality types associated with them?
Aquarius is considered the humanitarian star sign and is presented by a bearer of water who gives water to the land.
Pisces is another water sign, and it is represented by two fish swimming away from each other, which symbolizes fantasy and reality, joy and pain, and hope and fear.
For anyone who is interested in their star sign, items such as jewelry and clothing bearing your star sign are a great way of showing other people your commitment and belief in the zodiac. The Pisces Ring-Spun Cotton T-Shirt is lightweight, flattering and comfortable to wear.
Aries is actually the first sign of the zodiac. Represented by rams, anyone born under the Aries star sign is considered brave, ambitious and not afraid of a challenge.
Taurus is an earth sign, and like its symbol, the bull, a Taurus personality is said to enjoy serenity.
Gemini is one of the more well-known star signs. It is represented by twins, and it is thought that a Gemini personality wishes to do so many things that it needs a double in order to achieve them.
Cancer is another water sign and its symbol is the crab. Known for intuition and psychic abilities, a Cancer personality is very good at "reading a room."
Unsurprisingly, Leo is shown as a lion and known to be passionate and energetic and enjoy the limelight.
The Virgo sign is a goddess who represents wheat and agriculture. Virgo personalities are considered practical and hard-working.
Libra is shown by a pair of scales, the only "object" out of all the zodiac signs. A Libran likes symmetry and for everything to be equal in life.
The Scorpio is a water sign and demonstrates passion and power.
Shown by the archer, the Sagittarius personality is always seeking new knowledge.
The final star sign is Capricorn, shown as a mythical creature which is half goat and half fish and thought to represent both the material and emotional aspects of life. This fascinating symbol is often found on clothing and accessories and is recognizable throughout the world. The Pink Capricorn T-Shirt is made of heavy, thick cotton and is very durable.
There are many more detailed descriptions of star signs, and even if you don’t recognize yourself in your star sign, ask yourself how many times you have read your horoscope and found it to be a true representation of a life situation you are going through.
Whatever your star sign and whatever you happen to believe in, a lot can be learned from star signs and the history and meaning behind them.
]]>Egyptian mythology is one of the most expansive and well-known across the world, and there are plenty of iconic individuals, settings and stories that many of us know or are at least aware of. One of the renowned gods of Egyptian civilization, religion and mythology is Horus, also known by similar names such as Heru, Hor, Her or Har. Horus is the god behind one of the most iconic images in Egyptian history, The Eye of Horus (also known as the Wadjet or the Eye of Ra). As you might expect, there is a fascinating story behind this legendary image, which is still a staple in modern culture today but particularly so in Egypt. Let’s take a look at the Egyptian god Horus and delve into the story behind that infamous eye.
In mythology, Horus was an ancient god of the sky who had a falcon head, as many people in ancient Egypt would worship the falcon. His image depicted him wearing a crown, the Double Crown of Egypt or a crown adorned with a cobra. You are bound to have seen images of him at some point in time. His falcon head and human body is a well-known image associated with Egypt, and he can be seen in all sorts of places there, from hotel logos to restaurants and more. But who was this iconic god?
Horus was born to two fellow iconic Egyptian individuals: Osiris - the god of many important elements of life such as the dead, life, fertility, agriculture and the afterlife - and his sibling Isis - the goddess of healing, rebirth, magic, motherhood, fertility and death. Awkward family dynamics aside, these were two of the most renowned deities in Egyptian mythology, so Horus was known as a divine child who became part of the “holy family triad”. The name Horus only accentuated this sublime nature, meaning “he who is distant” as well as “he who is above”.
Despite this blessed birth, Horus was subject to trauma and strife at a young age. When he was a child, his father Osiris was brutally murdered by his uncle Seth. His mother Isis hid the child in the dangerous and unforgiving marshlands of the Nile, where she protected him and he eventually grew strong enough to fight Seth thanks to having to deal with the crocodiles and snakes during his time in the marshes. This fight between Horus and Seth is where the Eye of Horus story comes from.
Even before we get into the story behind the Eye of Horus, Horus as a god was well-known for his eyes as people believed that they represented the moon and the sun respectively, even though he was more strongly linked with the sun than the moon. During his battle with his uncle Seth, Horus suffered a severe physical blow. Some stories say Horus had one eye torn out of his head, while others say that it was both eyes. However, he was able to have his eye (or eyes) restored by fellow deity Thoth in some versions of the story and the goddess Hathor in other versions. In fact, there are several different versions of this tale with little changes here and there, such as an account where Seth doesn’t just tear out Horus’s eye. He literally rips it to pieces and Thoth has to reassemble it bit by bit. Unpleasant doesn’t seem like a strong enough word.
No matter how it is told, the story ends with Horus offering his detached eye as a gift to his deceased father, who was now residing in the afterlife. The eye sustained Osiris in the afterlife thanks to its protective reviving powers. The Eye of Horus would go on to become a symbol of protection and healing thanks to Horus’s actions within the story. The eye would be depicted on amulets and used as protective wards. It was also called the “Wadjet” at first, which translates to “healthy” and “whole”. The symbol also became connected to offerings, in both funerals for the dead and in temples for deities.
There is so much fantastic storytelling in Egyptian mythology, creating memorable stories that have lasted for many, many generations. The Eye of Horus story is just one example of the iconic stories and symbols to come from Egypt. If you’re interested in adding the Eye of Horus symbol into your wardrobe, consider a Eye-of-Horus T-Shirt.
]]>Throughout history, animals have always held relevance and symbolism in different cultures all over the globe. The Ancient Egyptians viewed animals as godlike representations of their deities and thus worshiped them and their individual qualities.
Other cultures saw animals as the living embodiment of fertility and humanity with their natural evolution and reproduction, not to mention the ways their bodies were often used as a food source for humans.
Animals are also often present in lots Western art through the ages, usually depicting a certain theme or hidden meaning. The Native Americans named one another after animals, and even now, people refer to their "spirit animals" when identifying certain traits about themselves. The Zuni Bear T-Shirt displays an example of Native American animal symbology.
It is clear that the history of these creatures with whom we share our planet is rich, deep and full of symbolism. But if we look at it more specifically, what do certain animals represent, and how do they fit into modern cultures?
In Ancient Egypt, cats were revered animals. They protected homes from mice and were therefore practical commodities but also one of the first domesticated and cherished pets. The Egyptian goddess Bastet was symbolized as half cat, half human and was thought to bring fertility, domesticity and protection to the home - particularly for women and children. As a result, cats were often seen as a good luck charm to have in the home. This concept has persisted throughout the years and turned on his head in some ways, too. These days, a black cat can be seen as both a symbol of good and bad luck. The notion of the witch's accomplice follows the black cat, so it remains a mysterious and rather magical creature in symbolism.
Elephants are often bestowed with traits such as wisdom and success. They are powerful but gentle and are thought to have years worth of knowledge - hence the phrase "an elephant never forgets." Moving in strong, tight-knit units, the elephant also symbolizes the importance of family ties. In Buddhism, the elephant is viewed as a representation of the Buddha himself with all of the qualities that he holds dear: strength, wisdom and loyalty.
Snakes are often viewed rather negatively in symbolism. Perhaps the notion of the devious snake in the Bible has stuck with this particular creature, making people wary of its abilities to bring forth evil and be highly deceitful. People often believe that seeing a snake in your dreams is a negative sign and can signal that you may have a toxic person in your life. But it is not all bad; snakes can also represent rebirth and the shedding of an old skin to create a personal transformation that even has connotations within immortality.
Deers are gentle creatures that symbolize innocence and vulnerability. A stag, however, is seen as more powerful and regenerative due to the way it regrows its antlers. The deer is a well-used symbol in Christianity representing purity and a devotion to God.
Foxes are often viewed as clever - sometimes a little bit too clever! Their intelligence may border on deception, hence the phrase "sly fox", or "outfoxing" someone being used to mean that you outsmarted them. In some ancient folklore, particularly in Asia, people believed that foxes were shapeshifters and could transform into humans - an act that often led to destruction and trouble. If a fox crosses your path, it can be a sign that something or someone is holding you back in life and you need to be more assertive and creative about how you overcome your problems.
Tigers, like some other big cats, represent strength, instinct and a strong fighting spirit. The song Eye of the Tiger is all about being strong, challenging your rivals and being self-confident. Tigers induce fear, so seeing a tiger in your dreams may mean that something in life is intimidating you or that you should rely on your instincts and be more self-confident. In Hinduism and Buddhism, a tiger is seen as a vehicle for god, such is its majestic and powerful nature.
Like cats, frogs and toads have mixed symbolism - some good and some bad. They, too, are viewed in a magical light due to their connotations with witchcraft. However, they also represent fertility due to the sheer amount of babies they produce! It is sometimes said that if you see a frog or toad in your dreams, you might be ready to have kids.
]]>To understand who created symbology, it is important to first have a good grasp of what symbology actually is. Symbology can be understood simply as a system of symbols, where Egyptian hieroglyphics are a very famous example. Symbology can be the art of expression using symbols, perhaps used in Norse mythology. Finally, symbology can be the study of symbols or the interpretation of them.
The first known usage of the word symbology was in 1840, although clearly the symbols themselves had been around for many hundreds of years before that.
Symbology helps us understand more about the world around us and become more perceptive in our own day-to-day lives. It can be as obvious as something carved into a cave wall or more subtle, like our own body language. The interpretations are passed on from generation to generation, and hidden meanings become clear.
Different cultures use different symbols to represent their messages, with anything from flowers and animals to depictions of the gods. Color is also considered heavily symbolic. Even today, the flags countries choose are heavily symbolic, with their color and often a flower that represents the nation, like a silver fern for New Zealand or a red rose for England. For many people, a shamrock is instantly associated with the Republic of Ireland. It is symbolic of the country and also said to bring good luck. If you’d like to try it out, check out our range of Shamrock T-shirts, such as this Purple Shamrock T-Shirt, and see if they bring you a little luck of the Irish.
Another widely understood Irish symbol is the Claddagh, usually used on eternity rings but printed on T-shirts, such as this Blue Claddagh T-Shirt, in our shop.
Some symbols are short-lived, while others last the test of time. Some will fade away before returning with a new meaning.
Of course, different cultures will interpret things in different ways; location, culture and beliefs will all impact the meaning of symbols.
Today, some of the most commonly used symbols are on maps and road signs. Everyone understands what they mean. Water is depicted as blue, and we all understand that a red cross stands for a hospital. This sort of symbolism needs to be universally understood. Writers are great users of symbolism these days and use a lot of descriptive symbolism; black and other dark colors depict death, for example.
At the other end of the scale from modern symbology in cartography, the ancient Greeks used a lot of symbolism in their storytelling. We might not realize it today, but the signs of the zodiac all stem from the ancient Greeks. While it might seem a little out of touch to study something that has been around for so long, we all know our star sign!
The 12 signs of the zodiac were all representations of elements the Greeks held in high esteem and things they felt they could see in the night sky at different times of the year. The word zodiac itself comes from the Greek word for “circle of animals,” and each is linked to one of the elements; Earth, Air, Fire and Water. With Libra being the only exception, each of the signs of the zodiac represents an animal or person. You can browse our full range of zodiac t-shirts, such as this Pink Scorpio T-Shirt, inspired by Greek mythology.
Of course, there is also the very personal symbolism we attach to our possessions, especially jewelry. In this instance, it’s very easy to confuse sentimentality with symbolism, and in many respects, they’re very similar. With our own symbolism, the understanding and interpretation is very limited and what might be hugely significant to one person will not be understood by the next person, who puts great significance on something else.
In answer to the question of who created symbology, it would seem to be something that everyone can do, and many have. Each family has a family history interpretation that they can pass down to the next generation. Many are similar because the stories told by the very enthusiastic expert groups have heard different, similar versions, and the stories are adapted from one generation to the next. Each strain of symbology follows cultural traits that really help to place the item, whether it’s the style of Japanese drawing, the intricate detail of the Celtic jewelry adopted by the Norse, or the depiction of Buddha that is more recognizable now than at perhaps any time in the past.
Symbology helps us to find meaning and comfort, so even if we attach our own meaning, items look set to be important forever.
]]>The shamrock is a well-known symbol of luck and adorns all sorts of items, including our shamrock t-shirts, which are available in a range of colors such as Orange and, of course, Green. But where did the shamrock get its luck? Let's find out!
Many people think that the shamrock and the four-leaf clover are one and the same, but this is not the case. The shamrock is a kind of clover plant, but it has just three leaves. It is these leaves that give it a lot of its luck. In many cultures - and in Irish folklore - three is a lucky number, so plants with three leaves are ones to have around - except for poison ivy, of course, which has three leaves, too!
There are lots of different types of clover, including wood sorrel, black medick, lesser clover, red clover, yellow clover, and white clover, and there are a multitude of theories about which one is actually a shamrock. All of them have three leaves, but the Departure of Agriculture in Ireland did conduct several polls in order to pick its official shamrock plant and it was decided that the yellow clover was the one.
St. Patrick is Ireland’s patron saint, and the shamrock is his symbol. Irish legend has it that the saint once used the plant’s three leaves to teach people about the Holy Trinity, although many people now think that this is just a myth.
Regardless of how the link came about, St. Patrick and the shamrock are often pictured together, and there are statues and paintings of him holding the clover in locations all around the world.
There are many stories about the magical powers of the shamrock, and there are lots of people who believe that the plant can do everything from predicting the weather to breaking the curse of a leprechaun.
The name of the plant is said to come from the Irish word seamróg. This is a shortened version of seamair óg, which means "young clover". It was traditionally used as a medicine.
References to the young clover can be found in very early Irish literature, such as the tale of St. Brigid and how she chose to stay in the Irish county of Kildare after she saw the beauty of Irish blossom. Irish literature does not distinguish between the shamrock and clover, however, and it was in English that shamrock became a distinct word. It first appeared in English literature in the work of Edmund Campion in 1571.
Since the 18th century, the shamrock has been a symbol of Ireland. It evolved from being simply associated with St. Patrick to being a national symbol after rival militias took it up as an emblem toward the end of the 1900s. Today, it is used as an emblem of all sorts of organizations and companies, including Tourism Ireland, the Aer Lingus airline, and the Police Service of Northern Ireland. Ireland’s government even registered it as a trademark in 1985 after a court case.
Every St. Patrick’s Day, people around the world wear shamrocks and the Irish Taoiseach presents a Waterford Crystal bowl of the plants to the U.S. president.
Long before this tradition - and before St. Patrick even existed - Ireland’s early druids believed that the shamrock had special powers. It is said that they thought that it could detect any bad spirits and that the plant’s trio of heart-shaped leaves represented the theory of the triple goddess. Celtic legend says that every goddess had the capacity to take on three forms: wise woman, mother, and maiden.
Three is also an extremely prevalent number in Celtic culture and was believed to be something to be respected and honored. It features heavily in all sorts of different myths and legends, and in the Triskele, which is a druidic symbol made up of a trio of spirals.
People around the world now wear the shamrock as a symbol of luck and pride, but it was once banished by Britain’s Queen Victoria. Wearing one was a capital offense during a period when the monarch wanted to suppress Irish rebellion, and combining shamrock with a military uniform could be punished by death. These rules further cemented the shamrock’s place in Irish hearts, however, and from the 19th century, the plant was increasingly used as a decoration on everything from furniture and Celtic revival artwork to churches.
]]>Norse mythology is a fascinating collection of myths and tales of heroes and gods. The tales have evolved through folk tradition. Read on to learn more about the nine worlds of Norse mythology.
The nine worlds are all linked together as the roots and branches of a tree that symbolizes the whole world: Yggdrasil. Each realm is then represented within and is home to different beings, such as giants or gods. The worlds are Alfheim, Asgard, Helheim, Jotunheim, Midgard, Muspelheim, Niflheim, Svartalfheim, and Vanaheim. The number nine is significant in Norse mythology and it crops up regularly; Heimdall had nine daughters, for example, and Odin was hanging on Yggdrasil tree for nine days. Niflheim and Muspelheim were the first two worlds to be created, with the rest made by Odin.
The name Niflheim is derived from the Old Norse word Niðavellir, which translates to “mist home.” It is said to be the coldest and darkest region, created first and assigned to the region of Ginnungagap in the north. Home to Nidhug, (Níðhöggr), a large dragon, Niflheim sees the source of 11 rivers from Hvergelmir. Hvergelmir is the oldest spring in the world and is protected by the dragon. Legend has it that all living things originated from the spring and that all living beings will return at some point.
As the water flowed down the mountains from Hvergelmir through each of the 11 rivers, it got colder and eventually turned to ice as it reached the flat lands of Ginnungagap. Yggdrasil began to grow, and one of its roots reached back to Niflheim to draw water from Hvergelmir, the spring.
Created at the same time, Muspelheim (Múspellsheimr) was in many ways opposite to Niflheim. The latter was cold and in the north, but Muspelheim was in the south and was full of flames and lava. It is home to fire giants and ruled by Surtr. Legend has it that when the world ends, Surtr will attack Asgard (the home of the gods) and use his flaming sword to destroy Asgard.
Asgard lies in the middle of the world, high in the sky. It is where gods and goddesses live, ruled by Odin. Odin is married to Frigg, Queen of the Aesir, the enemies of Surtr. Beyond the gates of Asgard, the legendary place of Valhalla is found, where half of those killed in battle will move to the afterlife. The remaining half go to Fólkvangr.
Midgard (Miðgarðr) translates to “middle earth” and is found in the middle, below Asgard. The humans live in Midgard, with the gods above them in Asgard. The two realms are connected by Bifröst, the rainbow bridge. Midgard is surrounded by a vast ocean that cannot be passed. The ocean is home to the Midgard Serpent, a sea snake so large that it encircles the whole world.
Most giants (jötnar) live in the land named after them, Jotunheim. The land is largely rocky wilderness with dense forest. The jötnar live on fish and animals living in the forest, and the land itself is not fertile. The giants are generally enemies of the Aesir, though they remain forever linked by a river, the Iiving.
The Vanir is another branch of gods, known for being masters of magic and sorcery. With that, nobody knows exactly where Vanahaiem is and it remains a very mysterious land. The Vanir are talented when it comes to predicting the future.
Alfheim (Álfheimr) is located beside Asgard in heaven. The light elves take the role of “guardian angels” and they are ruled by the god Freyr. Beautiful, creative creatures, they are poets and musicians and are minor gods covering fertility and nature.
The dwarves live in Svartalfheim (Svartálfaheimr) in caves and underground. Dwarves are master craftsmen who love to make gifts for the gods, such as Odin’s powerful spear.
Criminals such as murderers, thieves, and any others not considered by the gods to be suitable for Folkvangr or Valhalla would find themselves in Helheim. There is no happiness or joy for anyone there ever again. The end of the world will come when Hel (ruler of Helheim and daughter of Loki) rallies her dead army to attack the gods at Ragnarök.
]]>Although dreamcatchers have been around for many years, they have become more popular in recent times and are regularly seen hanging in people’s homes, gardens and porches, as well as from trees.
A dreamcatcher comes in many different sizes, patterns and colors. Traditionally, a dreamcatcher is made up of a hoop that is covered in a web-type netting and has colorful feathers and beads hanging down from the hoop.
A genuine, authentic dreamcatcher is handcrafted and made from 100% natural materials. Originally, dreamcatchers used red willow branches to make the hoop, yarn for the web, real feathers from wildlife, and handcrafted beads.
It is believed that the dreamcatcher originated from Native American tribes in the Ojibwe and Lakota regions. Traditionally, spiders are considered to be insects that many people and cultures are scared of, but people from Ojibwe considered them to be protectors.
One legend that has been shared over the years tells the story of a Spider Woman who was once the spiritual protector of her tribe and took special care of the young. As her tribe from Ojibwe expanded and grew, the people spread out across the land and the Spider Woman could no longer look after all of them. This gave her the idea to create the first-ever dreamcatcher to protect the children when she wasn’t there. The tradition was passed down the generations, and the women continued to make and hang the dreamcatchers, believing it would protect their children.
Dreamcatchers protect people from bad dreams. When they are hung up high, it is believed the web catches the bad dreams and thoughts, letting only the good dreams make their way to anyone below. The bad dreams are then burned and destroyed by the sun during the day. People still believe this to be true today, and children and adults alike sleep with a dreamcatcher above their bed.
The shape of the dreamcatcher is no coincidence and has a meaning related to the natural world. The circle shape represents the moon to catch the bad dreams at night and the sun to destroy them in daylight.
The hanging feathers allow the good dreams to escape softly and gently to whoever is sleeping below, while the beads have two meanings, depending on which legend you believe. Some say the beads are not the good dreams that couldn’t get through the web; instead, they say they are sacred charms. Others believe the beads are a symbol of the spider.
Today, dreamcatchers can be bought in stores around the world. Many are large and made of plastic and unnatural materials and are used more as decorations or home accessories. It is still possible to buy authentic, real dreamcatchers, but those who want the real thing will have to shop around and go to stores that specialize in real Native American craft.
Dreamcatchers can also be found on jewelry and clothing. The Ring-Spun Cotton Dream Catcher T-Shirt comes in a variety of different sizes and dreamcatcher colors. It is made of heavy, high-quality cotton and features a traditional dreamcatcher design on the front.
In Minnesota, the dreamcatcher is used to represent hope and healing by a dance troupe from the Red Lake Indian Area in Minnesota. The group used the symbol to express their feelings and experiences in relation to the Red Lake shootings in 2005. The group have since shared their stories with other students who have suffered similar trauma and gifted these groups with a dreamcatcher.
As the dreamcatcher legends have been passed down the generations, the beliefs have changed and evolved. In Lakota culture, dreamcatchers are believed to represent "the web of life" and life’s good and bad. They believe the dreamcatcher can catch the bad from society and release only the good, allowing people to live good and rewarding lives.
While no one can deny that dreamcatchers are beautiful and intricate works of art, some sellers have sold what they said were genuine Native American catchers, but they had actually been made locally. This resulted in the Indian Arts and Crafts Act being passed by Congress in 1990, making it illegal to claim anything had been handcrafted by Native Americans unless it was indeed made by Native Americans.
Many people today appreciate and value the dreamcatcher and respect and honor its history and meaning.
]]>No matter where you come from, you have probably heard at least a little bit of Norse mythology at some point in your life. These legends have been infused in our popular culture, likely due to the rich history that Norse mythology encompasses. There are lots of facts to learn about Nordic legends, so let’s take a look at 20 particularly fun facts about Norse mythology.
There is a story where Loki, brother of Thor and the God of Mischief, turns himself into a female horse. The reason behind this is an odd one. Loki likes a stallion by the name of Svadilfari, so he becomes a mare, mates with Svadilfari and gives birth to an eight-legged steed. It's unlikely we will be seeing that storyline in the Marvel movies any time soon.
Speaking of that eight-legged steed, Odin uses Loki’s horse child as a reindeer substitute and gives out gifts to children (and punishments, too).
Oddly enough, this steed isn’t the only child that Loki bears. His other children include a serpent named Jörmungandr, a wolf called Fenrir and a monstrous daughter called Hel. It's a dysfunctional family, to say the least!
Loki’s wolf child Fenrir was shackled by a magical chain made up of randomness: a woman’s beard, mountain roots, the breath of a fish, the saliva of a bird and a kitten’s footstep.
Fenrir devours Odin in the Norse stories and destroys a lot of the world, earning the title of Fenrir the World Eater.
It is one of Odin’s sons - Vidar, the god of vengeance - who eventually kills Fenrir after she survives the apocalyptic event Ragnarok.
Ragnarok is a huge element of Norse mythology, referencing the final destruction of the world in a cataclysmic event.
The fylgja is a supernatural creature, spirit or being in Norse mythology that is connected to a human being. Each person is said to have a fylgja in these legends.
There is a story that features Thor kicking a dwarf called Litr into a lit pyre. Why? He gets mad and Litr is unfortunately the closest to Thor at the time. Talk about a slight overreaction!
Thor had to dress as a bride when Thrym, the chief of the giants, attempted to blackmail the goddess Freyja into marrying him. The disguises were meant to trick the giant so that Thor could kill him. Hilariously, Loki was his bridesmaid.
Freyja’s role in Norse mythology cannot be overstated. One fact about her is that she has the role of choosing which Vikings will go to Valhalla. She only chooses half, with Odin - God of War and the Dead - choosing the other half.
But what is Valhalla? It is a lavish hall in the afterlife where dead warriors will spend their lives feasting and living in luxury.
Cats hold an importance in Norse myths, with Freyja having two cats, Trjegul and Bygul, who pull her chariot. Kittens would also be offered as gifts to Viking brides because of this important connection to the goddess.
Thor also had his own chariot, but his was pulled by two goats, Tanngnjostr and Tanngrisnir, who could resurrect if Thor ate them as long as he didn’t break their bones.
Heidrun was a goat who waited in Valhalla with udders full of unlimited beer for the deceased warriors. The Norse Triskele, such as that on this Green Ring-Spun Cotton T-Shirt, symbolizes three interlocking drinking horns.
There is also a pig there, who was said to be a source of unlimited bacon for the warriors to feast on in Valhalla.
There is a squirrel in Norse mythology called Ratatoskr whose sole purpose is to carry insulting messages between two creatures that live at opposite ends of the great World Tree, Yggdrasil.
There are so many gods in Norse mythology, but one of the most obscure is Ullr, god of skiers. His pastimes include skiing and chasing game with a bow and arrow.
Aegir, god of Sea Creatures and Oceans, was a bit of a party animal, known for his rambunctious parties and brewing ale for the Gods to enjoy.
We finish this list with the beginning. The very first God in Norse lore is Buri, who was said to be created by a cow. What humble beginnings!
]]>The term Viking refers to the Norse men (and women) who, throughout the 8th to 11th centuries, traveled throughout Europe raiding, conquering, trading, pillaging and eventually settling. These people originated from southern Scandinavia but ended up settling all over Europe and even as far as the Middle East.
This period of time was known as the Viking Age and had a big impact on medieval history of this time.
One thing that we know about the Vikings is that they worshiped a variety of Norse gods and goddesses. Before the majority converted to Christianity during the Middle Ages, their lives revolved around the intricate stories and mythology surrounding these gods and goddesses, who were all revered and worshipped for different traits. Throughout ancient texts and archaeological findings, we are able to decipher a lot about the beliefs and rituals of the fearsome Vikings. We can examine how their mythology shaped their lives. What are the core aspects of Norse mythology?
Like many cultures and civilizations, Norse mythology looks into the creation of everything: the cosmos, the world, the origin and how we all came to be. It also looks into how all of this was destroyed and how the gods met their doom. Norse mythology states that the cosmos was created by a big bang when fire met ice. A giant, Ymir, was slain by some of the ancient gods (including the father of Odin), who used the giant's corpse to create the world using his teeth for cliffs and his blood for the oceans. Humans were created by these ancient ones from trees.
There are nine worlds with nine purposes in Norse mythology, including the land of humanity, the land of death, the land of gods and so on. These nine worlds are thought to be held within the branches of the Tree of Life, which is suspended within the cosmos.
In Norse mythology, it is widely believed that there were initially two tribes - the Aesir and the Vanir. All gods belong to one of these two tribes. While the Aesir tribe is thought to be skilled in the art of combat, the Vanir tribe relied more heavily on magic and spirituality when it came to war. The two battled but eventually grew weary of war and, as was customary, sent members of each tribe to live among the other. This is where the distinctions between the tribes become blurry and it is unclear who initially belonged where. Despite their hostilities, ancient texts do show the tribes eventually living peacefully with mutual respect for one another.
There are undoubtedly some gods who are more widely known than others. Odin is thought to be the most revered and powerful deity in Norse mythology. With his links to the creation of the world, he was considered to be all-powerful in a range of areas including war, magic and death. Indeed, it was Odin who was believed to have ruled over the kingdom of Valhalla, where fallen soldiers went.
Odin's sons were also popular, especially Thor, God of Thunder, who is quite well-known through the Marvel series. With his trusty hammer, he was thought to be able to smash mountains and was even a contender to Odin himself as the strongest of all gods.
Frigg was Odin's wife and the most powerful goddess in Norse mythology. She represents love, marriage, fertility and protection. She is represented by a number of symbols, including mistletoe and a full moon - also things associated with romance. Because Friday is named after her, people still believe that Friday is the best day of the week to get married.
There are many other notable gods and goddesses ,all with their own stories, traits and histories, but many stem from the extended family of Odin.
The end of the world in Norse mythology is known as Ragnarok, the doom of gods and men. It is believed that giants and demons attacked and the gods faced their doom like heroes. However, some believe that this was the death of Norse gods only and that others survived and went on to create a new way of life. For Vikings, it may seem odd to worship a religion that you believe will eventually end, but they saw it as inspiring - one day the gods will exit as heroes, and so should all men.
]]>Hinduism is the oldest religion known to man, dating back as far as 5000 BC. It's also one of the most influential relgions in the world, coming third in terms of followers behind Christianity and Islam. Despite its long and rich history and its worldwide popularity, there are still many fascinating and little-known facts relating to Hinduism that you might not be aware of.
Here is a closer look at some of the most interesting and unusual facts about this prominent religion.
What we call Hinduism was actually known by another word, Sanatana Dharma, which translates to “eternal way of salvation”. The word Hindu comes from the Sanskrit language and means a large area of water or a river. Sanskrit is thought to be the oldest and most prominent of languages, with linguists suggesting that it was the starting point for almost all languages in the world.
While Christians have Jesus and Muslims have Mohammed, there is no founder of the Hindu religion. It isn't a religion based on a person, which means that it is tricky to ascertain its true time of origin. It also has no concept of conversion, so Hindus believe that you either embrace the religion or are born into it. Perhaps this could be because it is less focused on worshipping a singular prophet. Because of this, it is one of the more peaceful religions; Hindus do not fight or try to force others to convert to their beliefs, and they believe in peace over power.
Even if you're not big on religion, the chances are that you will have tried or at least heard of yoga. Yoga is an integral part of Hinduism as Hindus believe that the breathing techniques and gentle exercise involved with it brings them closer to their god, Brahman. It is a connecting and spiritual endeavor that is thought to bring peace and guidance. Many practicing yogis hold that belief today, even if they do not practice the religion itself.
You may already know that the River Ganges is an incredibly sacred river in Hinduism. In fact, it is thought that the 1500-mile river through Asia is the most holy body of water in the world. Hindus believe that it is embodied by the goddess Ganga and that rituals that take place on the banks of the Ganges will bring good luck and wash away impurity. The river still remains one of the most polluted on Earth, yet despite this, it is packed with a unique bacteria that attacks and kills other harmful bacteria. It is seen as a protective form of bacteria that acts almost like a bodyguard to the goddess Ganga and her holy river.
You may have heard the familiar chanting of OM or AUM, but have you ever considered what it means? Its significance is huge in Hinduism. The chant is a prefix to most sacred mantras in Hinduism and is thought to have the same vibrational frequency of everything within the universe. This Blue Aum T-Shirt displays a beautifully intricate Aum symbol.
Hindus believe in a circular rather than linear concept of time and that life is lived through four main phases before restarting. It is the only religion that advocates the concept of karma and rebirth (or reincarnation) with the premise that what you do in this life will determine your next life.
Do you have a lucky number? Hindus consider 108 to be important. It is viewed as the most holy of numbers because it is the ratio of distance from the sun to Earth. Celestial bodies hold a lot of relevance in the religion. Prayer beads will often have 108 beads to reflect the significance of this special number.
Gender equality is alive and well in Hinduism. Every male god in the religion has a female counterpart (with the exception of the “celibate” gods). Hinduism is also thought to be the first religion to advocate marriage - the equal union and lifelong commitment between a man and a woman.
Hinduism is about peace and happiness. It encourages followers to embrace and celebrate life. Although there are rules to follow in the religion, they are less restrictive and won't compromise quality of life. It is one of the only religions that has no mourning festivals.
]]>Scandinavian or Norse mythology encompasses the legends and beliefs of Scandinavian people and is a type of older Germanic mythology. It was eventually mostly superseded by Christian beliefs, but it still has a place in today’s world - such as on our purple Georgian Sun Wheel Borjgali T-shirt or our blue Ring-spun Cotton Triskele T-shirt, associated with the Norse Horn Triskelion symbol.
Norse mythology is made up of stories and beliefs shared among Northern Germanic tribes and was passed on through generations instead of being handed down to mortals from gods or being based on scriptures. It was passed down through the era of the Vikings, and much of our modern knowledge is based on medieval texts written after many writers turned to Christianity, along with the Eddas, which are stories focusing on Viking deities.
It is said that Norse mythology is the most well-preserved version of the older version of common Germanic paganism, which also includes the related Anglo-Saxon mythology.
These mythological characters started out in stories originally shared among the northern Germanic tribes that lived in the 9th century AD. These tales were passed down through the generations as forms of poetry. This happened until the period between the 11th and 18th centuries, when medieval texts and the Eddas were written.
The Poetic Edda, or Elder Edda, contains 29 poems, 11 of which deal with the existence of German deities. The rest of the poems focus on legendary heroes, such as Sigurd the Volsung, or Siegfried in the German Nibelungenlied.
In addition to these sources. legends survive in Scandinavian folklore. Some of these also appear in Germanic literature. There are also hundreds of areas in Scandinavia with names derived from the gods.
The Vikings who originally heralded from the north of Scandinavia worshipped the goddesses and gods of Norse mythology.
Much of Norse mythology focuses on the actions of important gods and goddesses. Let’s take a look at some of them.
Norse gods were part of two main groups, the Vanir and the Aesir. Odin was part of the Aesir clan and was also renowned as the father of the gods. He was often pictured as a bearded, one-eyed old man with a cloak and a hat sitting upon Sleipnir, an eight-legged horse who could fly.
Odin was seen as the most powerful of all the gods and is still linked with such themes as war, death, healing, knowledge and wisdom. He was the ruler of Valhalla, or the hall of the slain, as it was otherwise known.
Odin was also responsible for our Wednesdays. It is said that the day is named after Woden, which is a variation of the god’s name.
She was the wife of Odin and is said to be one of the most important Norse goddesses. She stuck with Odin despite many extramarital affairs and was the only person who could sit beside her husband, according to myth.
Frigg is said to be the goddess of the sky and is also associated with fertility, family, marriage and wisdom. She is also said to have divine powers and have experienced visions. It is said that the name Friday derives from Frigg.
Thanks to Marvel, Thor is perhaps the most recognizable of the Norse gods in the modern world. He was known as the thunder and lightning god and has a famous sidekick, Mjolnir, a hammer capable of destroying everything from mountains to giants. Thor is said to have ridden in a goat-drawn chariot with two giant animals at the helm called Tanngrisnir and Tanngniost.
Thor was Odin’s son and was responsible for protecting the Aesir’s stronghold of Asgard. The day Thursday is said to be named after "Thor’s Day".
Once again, we have Marvel to thank for many people’s knowledge of Loki. It may be surprising to note, however, that in Norse mythology, he was neither Odin’s son nor Thor’s brother. Instead, his original incarnation was said to be Odin’s "blood brother".
He was, however, always known as a trickster and was said to be able to shapeshift into different forms. He was depicted as being very mischievous, and there were times when he caused significant harm, such as in the death of Balder, another god.
She was the goddess of fertility, war, gold, beauty, love and fate and was a Vanir clan member. Half of the Vikings who died in combat were said to go to her heavenly meadow, known as Folkvangr. The rest went to Valhalla.
]]>Hinduism is one of the world’s oldest religions and has been around for over 4,000 years. It originated in India and represents many different values, but it shares a common belief that there is a supreme God called Brahman and that Brahman is everywhere and present in everyone.
There are many Hindu symbols that are recognizable around the world, and some of them have specific meanings. These symbols are also present on jewelry and clothing. By wearing clothes that are printed with these symbols, such as this Multi-Color Aum Fleece Sweatshirt, people can display an affinity for the Hindu religion.
The Aum symbol is one of the most recognized symbols in the world and one of the most important of all the Hindu symbols. Pronounced "Om", it is used in meditation and is also the first sound of any Hindu prayer. It is also believed that this was the very first sound to come from the universe and that before it, there was only silence. Although pronounced "Om", the correct spelling is "Aum", with A representing creation, U for manifestation and M for destruction.
The symbol itself is thought to represent three aspects of God: Brahma, Vishny and Shiva. By chanting the sound, a worshipper can physically tune into the universe and the world around them. This practice has a calming effect on the nervous system and body.
The lotus flower is a symbol of Indian heritage. The scriptures of Hinduism praise the lotus and believe it is sacred. Historic images show God Brahma and Buddha sitting on a lotus, and other key figures are depicted through time holding the lotus. This includes Lord Vishnu, who held one in his hand, and Goddess Lakshmi, who is also shown holding the lotus plant.
Because the lotus is born in water yet does not hold water on its leaves, it has special meaning and is considered the symbol of detachment from surroundings.
The red dot that is seen on the forehead of many Hindus is a tradition that goes back many years. Hindus believe that the dot represents a third eye and that the two biological eyes we are given are for seeing the world around us and that a third is needed for seeing and focusing on God and keeping God always at the center of the mind. A red dot is also a sign of marriage, so if a Hindu woman becomes a widow, she will no longer wear a red dot and will instead replace it with a black dot on her forehead.
This Swastik symbol is linked to a Mantra, where the word "Swastik" is repeated four times at blessings. Although this is one of the most recognized Hindu symbols in the world, it is also known for its historic connection with Nazi Germany.
The symbol of the Sri Yantra shows a series of triangles that all interlock with each other. There have been many studies to analyze the formation, which is thought to represent the human body and the cosmos. The central part of the symbol contains nine triangles, with the four facing upward representing the universe’s power and the five facing downward representing the divine feminine. Together, they form unity.
A sacred thread worn across the body of a man is a symbol that he is holy. Hindus divide their lifespan into four sections: Brahmacharya, which is the student; Grihasta, which represents family; Vanprastha, which is where a person can separate himself from his family and commit the remainder of his life to society; and Sanyasa, when a person abandons the world. A sacred thread is used to initiate a student and this gives him sacred status. The thread is made of hand-spun yarn, and three threads are twisted together to make the thread for the initiation ceremony.
Another Hindu symbol recognized around the world in the Hamsa. This is a palm-shaped design featuring a central eye that is believed to provide protection and bring good fortune. Extremely popular in jewelry and home accessories, the Hamsa also features on clothing, such as this Green Hamsa T-Shirt.
The Jyoti is worshipped to lead from darkness to light. The Jyoti (flame) is considered the purest of the pure because all impurities are extinguished. In Hindu households throughout the world, the deepam lamp is lit both in the morning and evening and before prayer and religious occasions.
Hindus throughout the world are eager to protect the symbols of Hinduism while promoting its messages and encouraging others to follow.
]]>The philosophy of Hinduism is an in-depth and fascinating subject that covers a broad spectrum of teachings, philosophies and general societal and world views that were established in Ancient India. These elements came together to form the Hindu religion that we know today. Philosophy in particular is an important part of Hinduism. Darshana, or Darśana, - a word originating in Sanskrit meaning “vision”- is used in Indian tradition and means "our philosophies". In Hinduism, there are six darshanas that make up the basic philosophical foundations of Hinduism. These darshanas are Mimamsa (or Purva-Mimamsa), Yoga, Nyaya, Sankhya, Vedanta and Vaisheshika. By looking more closely at these darshanas, we can learn a little bit more about the Hindu religion.
Though relatively less studied than the other five teachings, Mimamsa or Purva-Mimamsa is highly influential to Hinduism due to its focus on epistemology. This means the philosophical study of knowledge and its place in the world. This kind of teaching covers a hugely broad subject of questions pertaining to knowledge in our universe, such as its origins and nature. When it comes to Hinduism, Mimamsa is a school of thought focusing on early Vedic texts - a body of ancient Indian religious texts that focus on ritual action - as well as the concept of “dharma", which relates to ethics or duty.
Vedanta is similarly linked to the contents within Vedic texts, much like Purva-Mimamsa. However, Vedanta focuses more on the ending of the Vedas. In fact, Vedanta translates directly to “end of Vedas”, which leans more into the idea of knowledge and the ways to achieve enlightenment, emancipation and a feeling of release. The main philosophical theories that Vedanta teaches are epistemology (as with Purva Mimamsa), ontology (the philosophical concept of reality and existence), and soteriology, which is the study of salvation via various religious doctrines.
The Yoga teaching of Hinduism also has elements of knowledge within its teachings, but they apply more to the idea of using this knowledge to better yourself. Not only does Yoga focus on applying knowledge to better yourself as a person, but it also hones in on how to spiritually, physically and mentally become the best you can be. The calming of the mind is encouraged with the Yoga teaching via morality, such as not intentionally harming others; physicality, like posture and breath control; and practicality, such as concentration skills.
Samkhya is similar to Yoga in that it has a similar emphasis on knowledge, duality and the components of mind, body and spirit. There is also a focus on souls, matter, creation and causation. It is often considered to be linked to rationalism, the philosophical theory of reason and rationality in conjunction with knowledge. It is a theory that emphasizes truth and knowledge being based within intellectual judgment and rationale.
This particular teaching focuses on logical matters, traditionally translating to “formal reasoning.” Nyaya has had substantial contributions to developments in key elements of Indian philosophy including methodology, practicality and logic. Although rhetoric and logical reasoning are what some consider the basis of the Nyaya teaching, it has strong roots in the idea of “argumentation”, pertaining to the systemic reasoning behind theories, ideas, actions and beliefs.
Finally, the Vaisheshika school of Indian philosophy relates to the philosophical school of theory known as naturalism and, more specifically, atomism. Naturalism is the idea that our universe is dictated by nature and natural law, rejecting spiritual or supernatural ideals. Atomism, which is a form of naturalism, focuses specifically on the idea that the physical world and universe is a construction made up of atoms. This relates back to Vaisheshika in the sense that it offers the idea that our experiences as people happen to us because of our relationship to these atoms as well as how these atoms are made up, such as their activity, how common they are, and what their particular role is. Vaisheshika is a theory that puts forward the idea that the understanding of the role of atomism and our physical world can lead to emancipation and knowledge.
Some of these theories may seem complex, but all of them offer values that can be simplified and made easy to follow, even for those with no interest in Hinduism. Knowledge is a key element of all six schools of teaching, and many of us can relate to that and attest to the importance of education. If you want to express your appreciation of Hinduism and its philosophical foundations, consider a Hindi inspired T-shirt from powsym.com, such as this Purple Namaste T-Shirt.
]]>Hinduism is a religion practiced around the world today, with its roots in ancient India. For some people, however, including great saints associated with Hinduism, it transcends religion and offers a broader perspective. Hinduism is a lifestyle choice and a way of living. It holds numbers in great esteem, with significance across both art and science.
Those practicing Hinduism have long been attaching a symbolic meaning to the numbers. It is the third most practiced religion in the world after Christianity and Islam, and while Hindus are found all over the world, over 90% of the total global population live in modern-day India. The first sacred numbers in Hinduism are as follows:
According to mythology in Hinduism, the number for zero represents Nirguna Brahman. Called Shunya in Hindu, the number symbolizes mystery. Nirguna Brahman has no form and is said to be the ultimate mystery for mortals to chase throughout their time on earth. Shunya therefore bridges the gap between the physical and metaphysical. Any number multiplied by zero - shunya - leaves you with an answer of zero, so there is nothing that can truly define Shunya with any certainty.
Where Shunya is representative of Nirguna Brahman, Eka symbolises the reputed father of creation, Saguna Brahman. As a more dynamic being than the mysterious Shunya, Eka is the ultimate creator of many of the gods. Aatmantoo is the concept of an eternity that lives inside the heart of all living beings, and Eka is said to represent it.
Dvi is a representation of duality and what we experience with our senses and our minds. Another duality is God and Nature - Purusha and Prakriti - also symbolized by Dvi. There are lots of other instances where Dvi is symbolic of something "other" or another pair; Subject and Object, Doer and Deed, Ego and Physical Self, for example, as well as more widely recognized duos of Heaven and Earth, Day and Night, even Life and Death. The symbolism of two entities from one is indicative in Hinduism of our existence and our mortality.
Following Eka and Dvi, the next number is Triah. This number symbolizes regularity and rhythmic order of the universe, known as Rtam. All together, these three significant numbers are regulated by the Tridev (Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwar) considered to be Hinduism’s Holy Trinity.
Some also reference this number as symbolizing Om, whose curves stand for each of the three human states of consciousness.
Shaptam is a very special number in Hinduism. It represents the plane where mortals live, although this earthly plan is said to be one of several planes. Many also believe that our very existence and disposition is governed by seven chakras: Muladhara (root chakra), Svadhistana (sacral chakra), Manipura (solar plexus chakra), Anahata (heart chakra), Vishuddha (throat chakra), Ajna (third eye chakra) and Sahasrara (crown chakra).
Having balanced chakras - or energy centers - helps us to create a mind and body working in unison, so Shaptam takes on increased focus and importance.
And finally, arguably the most important number of them all when it comes to Vedic cosmology or numerology is 108. Said to be a divine number, it represents all saints, gurus, yogis and key figures of the Hindu religion. Contemplating meditation without 108 rosary beads would render the practice void by some of the saints. Hindu garlands and malas will all tend to have 108 beads exactly.
Broken down, each of the numbers has a special meaning on its own, and combined there are even more powerful and significant. 1, as above, represents Saguna Brahman, and 0 represents Nirguna Brahman. 8 symbolizes infinity and eternity, which is often depicted as a figure 8 rotated by 90 degrees.
When the three digits are all together in that order, they are seen as the foundation of all creation, our birth, existence, and then rebirth, and you’ll find the number 108 cropping up in chants and hymns. It is also the ratio of distance of the sun and the moon from Earth.
There are 108 important points for acupuncture, which is similar to Ayurveda, the ancient medicine and treatment for many ailments still practiced today.
If you needed any more convincing that 108 is arguably the most sacred of all numbers for Hindus, know that Krishna has 108 different names. The number 108 has contributed to huge amounts of mythology and legend for the whole Hindu religion, and even today, it exists throughout the annual calendar of activities of Hinduism.
]]>We love Buddha, as you may be able to tell from our clothing collection, which includes items such as the Short-Sleeved Green Protector Buddha T-Shirt and the Long-Sleeved White Buddha T-Shirt. Our interest does not end with how great he looks on clothing, however. Buddha is such a fascinating character that it’s hard to choose just ten interesting facts about him. We have done our best, however, and hope you enjoy this small insight into this religious leader and spiritual teacher.
He left his rich roots behind in order to follow a path of truth after seeing the sickness and poverty that existed beyond the palace walls.
Buddha did not actually look like the chubby man who appears on our Orange Laughing Buddha T-Shirt. He is actually portrayed like this as it was seen as a symbol of happiness in eastern culture. It would have been very difficult for the Buddha to be overweight given that he fasted regularly, practiced moderation, and walked hundreds of miles in order to spread enlightenment.
It is actually thought that the fat Buddha seen in so many images represents a Buddhist monk called Hotei a Budai, who lived at the start of the 900s. The confusion may have arisen because of teachings saying that every person is actually Buddha. Only Chinese-influenced images show an overweight Buddha. Asian images show the Buddha as being slender.
It is also unlikely that Buddha had the bun that can be seen in this Multi-Colored Fleece Sweatshirt, despite the fact that it is shown in a multitude of different images. It is likely, however, that this style came about as a result of the influence of Greek sculptures and architecture. This is why he can also be seen in images with a halo and wearing a toga-style robe.
Just days after his birth, a wise old man predicted that Siddhartha would be a saint or great king with world-changing capabilities.
Buddha taught his followers three major tenets: not to get angry, not to hate others, and not to be ignorant.
Buddha is not seen as a god by practicing Buddhists. Instead, he is viewed as a teacher. Buddha himself did not believe that goddesses or gods were actually relevant as part of a supreme goal of achieving enlightenment.
Buddha died at the age of 80 and his final request was that his followers worked hard to achieve their own salvation. During his cremation ceremony, it is thought that one of his teeth was taken. It is said that it was smuggled into the country of Sri Lanka and is still there today.
It is quite possible that Buddha was not vegetarian. Many Buddhists do not eat meat as Buddha’s instruction to do no harm is extended to animals. Yet Buddhists will eat food given to them without complaint or requesting anything. This philosophy and the culinary history of Asia means that Buddha is likely to have been offered - and eaten - meat during his travels.
The Christian church actually canonized Buddha. Stories that originated in Buddhism were adapted into Christianity stories and were so loved that Buddha was made a saint. The Bible’s Josaphat is said to be based on Buddha.
Buddha was a pioneer when it came to equality of the sexes. Unlike the male-dominated Indian Brahman caste system, Buddha believed in treating men and women equally. Most monastic orders, particularly when Buddha lived, shunned female participation, but Buddha offered a stark contrast to this sexist practice.
It is said that in order to achieve enlightenment, a young Siddhartha promised to sit beneath a fig tree to meditate until he could transcend suffering. What followed was a marathon of meditation and a mental struggle with the god of desire, known as Mara, but he is said to have been awakened. It is from this time that Siddhartha was known as the Buddha.
What is said to have been his spot of enlightenment beneath the bodhi fig tree has been preserved. Buddhists still make pilgrimages to Bodh Gaya, or the "place of enlightenment", which is situated in Bihar, northern India.
Standing on the spot is the Mahabodhi Temple, which was built around two and a half centuries after Buddha died. Buddhists visit the spot to meditate, chant and make offerings in order to renew and reinforce their commitment to their journey along the path of enlightenment.
]]>Buddhism is known around the world and is a world religion with followers from many countries. It was founded in India more than 2,500 years ago by Siddhartha Gautama who is believed to have been the son of a wealthy family and a prince. While his own life was easy and trouble-free, he saw the suffering going on around him and made a decision to give up his luxuries and become poor. However, this didn’t make him feel fulfilled, so he chose to exist by living between the two lifestyles by not enjoying or being part of any social group, but also accepting he would not live with deprivation.
Although Buddhism is mainly practiced in Southeast Asia and the East, it has become more and more popular in the West, with many of the ideas and philosophies associated with Buddhism linked to other faiths.
The belief of anyone practicing or following Buddhism is that there is not a single God or supreme being. Even the founder Buddha is not considered a God, although he is considered to be an extraordinary person. A Buddhist believes their focus should be on becoming enlightened in order to achieve inner peace and wisdom. When they reach this place in their mind, it is known as having experienced "nirvana."
A Buddhist believes that the way to find their truth is through meditation and wisdom. The religion is constantly changing and developing, with many people interpreting its meanings in different ways. Some people don’t see it as a religion at all and instead prefer to see it as a way of life.
Buddhism focuses on what are known as the Four Noble Truths, and these principles teach followers how to overcome suffering. They are:
The truth of suffering
The truth and cause of suffering
The truth and end of suffering
The truth of the oath that frees us from suffering
Buddhists believe in the concept of karma, which is a law or force of nature that causes an individual to "reap what they sow." They also believe in reincarnation and a continuous rebirth cycle.
Anyone who is following a Buddhism lifestyle can worship in their own home or in a temple.
There isn’t a single symbol that represents a Buddhist, but many images are associated with the beliefs, including the lotus flower and the dharma wheel with eight spokes. Another symbol associated with Buddhism is the Bodhi tree. It is believed that after searching for six years, Gautama found enlightenment while he was meditating under a Bodhi Tree and spent 49 days meditating there without moving. Later, a shrine was erected in the place where he sat. When he died in 483 BC, a religious movement was formed by his followers and his teachings were used as the foundation to create Buddhism. The movement spread, but in the 6th century, the Huns attacked India, destroying many Buddhist monasteries before being forced to retreat.
Buddha statues are usually in one of three positions: standing, reclining or sitting. Each posture has a different meaning, and each gesture and position of the hand represents a teaching, an enlightenment, a wisdom or a meditation.
The reclining Buddha is thought to represent the final stages of life.
The sitting Buddha is either meditating or teaching.
The standing Buddha is arriving to teach, having reached his own nirvana.
The Buddha symbol is well recognized and has become fashionable over recent years, appearing on clothing, household goods and jewelry. Many people believe a Buddha can offer protection. Moreover, some people believe that if they see a Buddha, it has actually found them somehow and is trying to tell them something about the way they are living their lives and wants to help them reach clarity. This Protector Buddha Fleece Sweatshirt is available in different colors and sizes.
There are three types of Buddhism that tend to be followed, depending on where in the world Buddhism is being practiced.
Theravada Buddhism is popular in Thailand, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Laos and Burma. Mahayana Buddhism is very prevalent in China, Japan, Korea, Vietnam, Singapore and Taiwan, and Tibet Buddhism is practiced in Nepal, Mongolia, Bhutan as well as northern India, certain parts of Russia and Tibet.
Buddhists believe The Dalai Lama is born again to help humanity. There have been 14 Dalai Lamas in history, and the current Dalai Lama is Lhamo Thondup.
]]>The Indian religion of Buddhism is based around the many teachings of Gautama Buddha, the revered founder of Buddhism whose philosophies and mantras are still widely revered throughout the world today. Many find solace and peace in the Buddhist teachings.
If your interest is piqued by Buddhism, you might be leaning toward finding out more about who you are via the Buddhist teachings. If that is the case, the first step to finding a teaching that could transform how you view your life - and tell you more about yourself - is to traverse the major teachings of Buddha. Let’s take a look!
The Buddhist teachings are normally divided into three different segments: The Three Signs of Beings, The Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path. This is where we will start on our journey to find the one teaching that suits you specifically.
The first major teaching is the Three Signs of Being - or the Three Marks of Existence - which refers to the Buddhist ideal of everything in this life having three particular characteristics. These characteristics are known as dukkha, anatta and anicca.
Dukkha refers to the nature of unpleasantness in its many forms, whether it is suffering, pain, boredom, stress, frustration or discomfort. Dukkha relates to the idea that life is imperfect and we, as humans, will experience these negative feelings and situations due to nothing in life being perfect.
Anatta is a slightly different expression, referring to the idea that we do not have a soul and our sense of self is fixed. The Buddhist teachings also argue that this fixed state of self - an entity that is not everlasting - is caused due to the ever-changing nature of life as well.
The final mark of existence or sign of being is anicca, which relates to the nature of impermanence. This links to anatta - the idea that we do not have a soul that will continue into the afterlife - as it also focuses on how nothing is everlasting and that time will change everything in this world.
Now let’s take a look at The Four Noble Truths. This is said to be the heart of the Buddhist teachings and consists of the dukkha (which also comes under the three signs of being as mentioned above), the nirodha (relating to the idea of overcoming suffering and achieving contentment by letting go of the dukkha), the samudaya (meaning suffering that is created by craving and desire) and finally, the magga (which relates to the Noble Eightfold Path that we mentioned earlier). The Noble Eightfold path is a set of guiding principles that can lead to enlightenment and the end of suffering for the individual.
The Noble Eightfold Path is arguably a teaching in itself despite being made up of eight separate actions split into three categories. These categories are ethics, meditation and wisdom. Under ethics, there are three points: Right action (meaning to behave in a manner that does not harm others), right speech (being honest and speaking in an honest way) and right livelihood (which is to earn a living in a way that does not bring harm or suffering to others).
With meditation, there are also three points: Right mindfulness (taking note of and being aware of your own emotions as well as the emotions of those around you), right effort (making the effort to be a positive person and focus on your meditation) and right concentration (channelling that focus so that you can meditate more effectively). Lastly, wisdom only has two points: Right view/understanding (being able to see that there are consequences to actions and acting accordingly) and right intention (clearly and concisely following the path of Buddhism).
Is it cheating to argue that the entirety of the Noble Eightfold Path could be a teaching that will well and truly tell you about yourself? Probably, but that is what we are going to argue anyway! These eight guidelines are excellent ways to teach self-discipline and instill an inherent kindness within you and your actions. If you make the effort to follow them, the guidelines of the Noble Eightfold Path are sure to teach you a lot about yourself. If the teachings of Buddhism are of interest to you, make sure to show off your interest with a Buddha T-Shirt such as the ones you can find on powsym.com.
]]>Ancient Egypt has long held a fascination for us, and there is a lot that has transferred into the modern world. Visual symbolism is huge, and that means that all ages and cultures can share the enjoyment of ancient Egypt today. There are lots of elements that are important, which can make it complicated, so here is a brief explanation of ancient Egyptian symbology.
At a basic level, objects depicted in ancient Egyptian art were representative of the things they showed. The djed pillar is a great example of that; a pillar does actually support, and Egyptians used the image of a pillar to represent support of other things.
On another level, there are indirect representations. Amulets with clenched hands are often said to represent a sexual union. The objects used might be very different from those they were said to represent, meaning interpretation was required and there was often a theme. Even a small change to the form could mean a big change to the intended meaning.
Perhaps the most famous form of ancient Egyptian symbolism is hieroglyphics. Hieroglyphs are expressed in several ways and are some of the most frequently encountered symbology. Sometimes the hieroglyphs represent individuals, and sometimes they are representations of gods themselves.
Rebus representation combines hieroglyphs to spell out names or titles and was often used to represent kings or other important figures. Sometimes, the hieroglyphs would be made in the shape of the object they would represent. The sign of the ankh, as represented in our Ankh T-Shirt, is said to represent a mirror. Very few Egyptians could read or write - a skill reserved for only the very elite in society - so hieroglyphs were widely used and so their symbolism became instantly recognizable.
In many societies throughout history, bigger is better. Ancient Egypt is no exception, and in order to represent their kings and gods being of greater importance than others, they were depicted much larger in scenes showing life. King would be much bigger than human, god much bigger than human. It was often shown on temple walls, so the hierarchical effect of size dominating the perceived weaker one put the King in a good position compared to his enemy.
Size was often used to depict relative equality, or otherwise. Isocephaly took to showing equality by putting heads on the same level and by making sure that someone with a more important social standing was not shown having to look up to someone of lesser social importance.
The ancient Egyptians did not have the same media for creating as we do today, but nevertheless, some materials had more significance than others. Precious metals are a good example of a material that has translated well, and gold is still highly regarded by most societies. Often used to depict divinity because of its brightness and color, the ancient Egyptians also used gold to symbolize the sun and eternal life.
Silver had godly associations as well, with the bones of the gods believed to have been made of silver. While gold was representative of the sun, silver was symbolic of the moon and lunar figures. We have adopted many material associations today, such as water symbolizing purification.
Color is another form of representation that has been adopted. We still use blue to symbolize the oceans and water in general, and yellow for the sun. Red remains the color of fire and the passion we associate with that, and green is still associated with life and mortality given the abundance of green in nature. Many western women choose white for their wedding dress as it still symbolizes purity, although in ancient Egyptian times, it would also have stepped in for the sun in place of yellow sometimes.
We still understand the importance today of gestures, those unwritten movements that say so much. How ancient Egyptians positioned the limbs, body and heads of the beings they depicted speaks volumes. However, understanding what the gestures meant in those times can be quite complex. Context gives us some clues but not always all the answers. Arms folded today might be interpreted as a barrier, but in Egyptian times, it was believed to signify independence, which is different.
The key thing to remember when interpreting ancient Egyptian symbols today is that we cannot know for sure. There are some accepted interpretations of some things today, but there is also a good chance that there were inconsistencies and even artistic license. It is, therefore, a good idea to keep a flexible approach.
]]>Throughout all cultures, religions and mythologies, the worship and symbology of celestial bodies has been prevalent for thousands of years. In Ancient Egypt, for example, the sun played a huge part in the status of the Pharaoh. In Ancient Aztec culture, vast human sacrifices were regularly made to the Sun gods to ensure a good harvest. Look at Stonehenge, and you will see an ancient monument that worked by demonstrating the cyclic nature of the sun and seasons, thus instructing the rural population on the best times to sow and harvest.
But the symbology of the sun, along with that of the moon and stars, actually goes much further than that. Here are just some of the fascinating depictions of these celestial bodies and how they have shaped civilizations for many, many years.
The sun has been around since the beginning of time, with legible records of the first solar eclipse dating back as far as 1223 BC. The sun was worshipped as a god-like body (or perhaps even a god itself) by numerous civilizations and religions across the globe. It has the ultimate power: to bring light and life to the world. Without the sun, survival would not be possible, and ancient cultures worshipped it as if their lives quite literally depended on its existence. For this reason, the symbol of the sun was often used on ancient warrior armor, such as shields, and sacrifices were often made to it.
The sun also served as a symbol of passion and heat. Ancient cultures believed that the sun's power was what warmed the human body and what created new life - both in humans and animals. It had an essence of male protection and power. And anyone who had an ego big enough to disrespect the sun's almighty rule - such as Icarus in the famous Greek myth - would meet with a terrible fate.
The sun might have a male presence, but the moon is certainly viewed as a more feminine celestial spirit. In Greek mythology, the god of sun was the mighty Apollo, whereas the god of the moon was his sister, Artemis. The moon could be linked to more female connotations thanks to its cyclic nature. Women's natural cycles were determined by the monthly cycles of the moon, and the tides also worked alongside the lunar phases. In this way, the moon was thought to control cycles in both humans and the natural world.
The moon is shrouded in mystery. It casts light on the things that can't clearly be seen or fully understood, illuminating them with an eerie, halo-like glow. Because of its complex and mysterious nature, it plays a big part in horror and fantasy genres - think of the famous notion of the werewolf emerging by the light of a full moon. Despite this, it holds a somewhat gentle and romantic view as well, as seen in ideas such as moonlight walks and dancing in the moonlight.
The moon is a powerful yet mysterious feminine force that constantly evolves, thus representing birth, death and the cyclic nature of the circle of life.
Stars symbolize spirit and the essence of hope within the darkness. Because of their vast, incalculable number, the stars are often seen as a battle between darkness and light. As a result, there are many connotations relating to faith and protection within the symbolism of the stars. The Star of David, for example, is an instantly recognizable symbol within Jewish faith, while the image of the star shining above the stable in Bethlehem remains a significant sign of guidance within Christianity.
In contemporary culture, the stars also symbolize hope. The notion of "wishing on a star" is prevalent in many modern films and books. The idea of lost loved ones also watching down on us from the stars is another symbol of comfort, faith and hope. It's worth noting that they are also a signal of quality or reward - gold stars are issued to children who have excelled in something, and in the hospitality industry, stars are recognized as a sign of quality and luxury.
To summarize, it's evident that symbolism surrounding the sun, moon and stars has been prevalent since the beginning of human history in many guises. Their meanings have evolved over time, from a god-like deity worship to personal astrological signs. Even now, they remain awe-inspiring symbols.
]]>Most people have heard of the star signs and many can name all of them. Some people take astrology very seriously, while others simply enjoy reading about their own sign from time to time. Whatever type of person you are - and whatever your sign - have you ever thought about where these signs came from and how they came to be a part of our lives?
You may have browsed our star sign designs, such as our Aquarius T-Shirts and Libra T-Shirts, but have you ever investigated the history of these signs? If not, we have done the job for you. Read on to find out who invented the star signs and why.
Since the beginnings of civilization, humans have measured the planets and stars, but over time, what we now know as astrology has evolved. In basic terms, astrology is the study of the impact the movements and positioning of celestial bodies have on human beings and the world in which they live.
In the past, people used astrology to effectively determine their actions. They planted, migrated and hunted according to the positioning of the stars and followed nature’s cycles and rhythms. Without this, many civilizations would simply not have survived.
For centuries, astronomy and astrology were believed to be the same, but humans and astrology have evolved since then. Humans no longer view the stars and planets with fear-based awe, and many now believe that astrology can be an important way of understanding oneself, relationships and the surrounding world.
The 12 signs of the zodiac, or star signs as we may know them best, first emerged in ancient Greece. They were given names based on constellations in the skies and linked with dates that corresponded to their positioning in relation to the sun.
Before this, however, the Babylonians had actually divided up the Zodiac into a dozen equal signs. This happened by 1500 BC, and the names given to the signs were quite similar to those we know of today. They included The Scales, which is known as Libra today; The Lion, or Leo; and The Great Twins, which represent the star sign of Gemini in the modern world.
The components of the horoscope are generally attributed to mathematician Claudius Ptolemy (c90-168AD) and his book, Tetrabiblos. He was of Greek descent, but he was a Roman citizen. Tetrabiblos is thought of as the bible of astrology. It sets out the components of the horoscope, including signs of the zodiac, astrological houses, and planets - everything that we associate with star signs and horoscopes today.
The Tetrabiblos tome was first translated from Arabic in 1138 and is still used as a source today, although astrological components have increased since then. New planets were discovered as a result of technological advancements, such as Neptune during the 19th century and Uranus during the 18th century.
The word "zodiac" has its origins in Greek and comes from a term meaning "sculpted animal figure". The order of the star signs comes from Ancient Greece. Spring started on the day that the sun made its appearance in Aries, and all other events throughout the year were marked from this date.
Since then, however, the earth has shifted on its axis and the dates of the zodiac do not actually correspond to the constellations that they were named after.
The zodiac itself is the area of the sky that goes 8 degrees north or south of the ecliptic. This is the Sun’s apparent path over the celestial sphere during the course of the year. The zodiac belt also includes the paths of visible planets and the moon.
The signs of the zodiac each occupy 30 degrees of what is known as celestial longitude. The very first depiction of 12 signs of the zodiac is known as the Dendera zodiac. This is a relief that dates back to around 50 BC.
Today, the star signs are Aries (March 21 - April 19), Taurus (April 20 - May 20), Gemini (May 21 - June 20), Cancer (June 21 - July 22), Leo (July 21 - August 22), Virgo (August 23 - September 22), Libra (September 23 - October 22), Scorpio (October 23 - November 21), Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21), Capricorn (December 22 - January 19), Aquarius (January 20 - February 18), and Pisces (February 19 - March 20).
]]>Yin-yang is based on the principle that two opposite forces make a complete life. Yin is the earth symbol, which represents female, darkness, absorption and passivity, and it is also associated with even numbers, water, the color orange and the tiger. Yang is the heaven symbol and represents male, lightness, and activity, and it is also associated with odd numbers, mountains, the color azure blue and the dragon. Together, Yin and Yang create harmony.
Other definitions have explained Yin and Yang by suggesting the peasant community had to stop work to rest when the sun went down and they became known as the yin community. When the sun was hot, this represented fire and became known as yang.
Published Chinese poetry from the 11th and 7th centuries BC suggests yang is the sunny side of the hill and yin is the shady side.
Yin-yang originated in China in the 3rd century BC and formed the basis of a school of cosmology known as the Yin-Yang school, which was represented by the Chinese philosopher Zou Yan. Over the centuries, the importance of Yin-Yang has impacted every aspect of Chinese life, including astrology, medicine, art and government. Through the school, the symbol became recognizable and Zou Yan taught his students that life was a continuous and constantly changing journey that passed through five key phases: fire, water, metal, wood and earth.
The Yin-Yang symbol represents the two sides coming together. You can’t have darkness without light, winter without summer, and male without female. It has been described as a constantly moving shape, two sides of a coin, birth and death, friends and enemies, fire and water, positive and negative - and all are needed in order for each to exist.
The symbol itself is black and white and is recognized throughout the world. Set in a circle with two teardrop symbols, one is white, representing male, and the other is black, representing female. The two shapes fit perfectly together and both have a smaller circle in the opposite color.
The symbol is popular among consumers and can be found on items for the home, clothing and jewelry. The orange ring-spun cotton Yin-Yang T-shirt is available in a variety of colors and sizes and can be worn to show an affinity and belief in the philosophy behind the symbol. Many followers also have the symbol, or a version of the symbol, tattooed on their body, including celebrities. Popular UK singer Anne-Marie has a tiny Yin-Yang symbol tattooed on her inner left elbow. Jahan Yousaf and her sister Yasmine both have matching neck tattoos of the Yin-Yang symbol.
According to legend, Yin and Yang were born into what would become the universe, and together they formed the center of the earth. They co-existed together in harmony and perfect balance and permitted the birth of the first human, named Pangu, and also the first Gods. It is believed by many that Yin and Yang still exist today in harmony at the earth’s center.
The earliest evidence of the Yin Yang symbol was found on animal skeletons and remains used in China by miracle workers.
During the Han Dynasty from 260 BCE to 220CE, Yin-Yang was used to demonstrate energy by Chinese philosophers. The Confucians who followed the teachings of Kong Qiu preferred Yang and all its power, while those who followed the Taoism religion preferred the calmer Yin.
There is much to learn from Chinese philosophy and the importance of balance and harmony in relationships. Philosophers believe the only guarantee in life is change, and change can bring both negativity and positivity, but if either one outweighs the other, that can cause relationships to become unbalanced. People who are negative can live in darkness and suffer from depression. However, over-positivity can be unrealistic and does not address the negatives that may be causing others to suffer. By allowing change and movement as well as positive and negatives forces, Chinese philosophy believes perfect harmony can be achieved.
The Yin Yang theory encourages flaws to unify and become one. For individuals to achieve balance, they must put the needs of those they love before their own, ultimately believing that a whole unit is always superior.
Many people across the world subscribe to the Yin-Yang meaning and try to live their life by its messages. It is regularly discussed by Buddhists, students, Taoists and Yogis, and good balance and moderation are constantly being strived for.
]]>Mythology and folklore is an incredibly important element of our history in this world, and Egyptian mythology is no exception. The stories passed down from generation to generation across the centuries have ties to the ancient mythology that stemmed from all kinds of cultures. Egyptian mythology - much like the Greek, Celtic and Roman legends - has some of the best-known stories that have been adapted over the years into pretty much every form of storytelling available, from literature to video games and beyond. It's quite likely that you are familiar with more of them than you think. With this huge cultural impact, it is safe to say that Egyptian mythology has a significant importance in our history. Let’s take a look at the humble beginnings of one of the richest mythologies in the world.
It is actually very difficult to pinpoint an exact beginning to Egyptian mythology due to the massively overwhelming nature of Egyptian history in general. Their history is said to have begun as far back as the year 3100 BC or even further. It is no surprise that one of the longest-lasting histories of civilization has had many a tale to tell and had such a significant impact on the world’s culture. One of the most complex elements of Egyptian mythology is the huge pantheon of gods and goddesses, which is the largest of any culture. Taking a look at these figures seems like a great place to start thanks to their influence on the history of Egypt as a whole, so let’s dive in!
Isis is one of the most significant of the Egyptian goddesses, considered one of the greats. Isis was goddess of the moon, and her abilities were believed to be related to magic, defense, protection and healing. The goddess was said to use these abilities to heal the sick, defend the powerless and protect women and children. She was an all-around good person. On a side note, she was married to her brother, Osiris.
We might as well delve into the god Osiris now that we have brought him up. Much like his wife/sister Isis, Osiris has a substantial role within ancient Egyptian mythology. In fact, his story is considered one of the most elaborate, beginning with his death at the hands of his brother Set. It involves treachery, deceit, resurrection and a son on a quest for revenge. It sounds kind of like an ancient soap opera! Osiris himself was the god of many different elements, including god of the dead, resurrection, vegetation and agriculture, life and fertility. Osiris is certainly an important figure in Egyptian mythology.
Just like the god Osiris and the goddess Iris, Horus also had an important role to play in Osiris’s myth as well as in Egyptian mythology and culture as a whole. In the tale of Osiris, Horus is the son of Osiris and Iris, which makes him Osiris’s heir. Remember that son we mentioned who was out for revenge? That’s Horus! Aside from his role in his father’s myth, Horus is the god of the sky as well as the god of kingship. There are several different versions of Horus from throughout Egyptian history, but the most popular incarnation of Horus is usually shown as a falcon or falcon-headed man. Horus’s cultural impact can be seen by his symbol, the Eye of Horus, which is well known and still used around the world today. For example, you can find Eye of Horus T-Shirts on powsym.com in a variety of colors.
Ra is another iconic figure in Egyptian Mythology. Known as the god of the sun, he became one of the most important figures in Egyptian religion. Not only is he the god of the noon sun, Ra was also the god of kings, the god of order, and, much like Horus, the god of the sky. That isn’t the only similarity that is shared with Horus, as both gods were often portrayed as falcons.
Sekhmet is an Egyptian goddess much like Isis, especially in terms of her powers. Sekhmet shared the power of healing with Isis and, just as Isis did, she would use her abilities to protect women and children, including pregnant women. Sekhmet was also married to Ptah in Egyptian mythology, the god of healing. Despite Sekhmet’s substantial focus on healing, she was also the goddess of plague, war, sun and fire. In other words, she was a multidimensional Egyptian queen.
]]>Symbolism was used a lot in Ancient Egypt, across jewelry, art, and even buildings. These symbols convey lots of information about the rulers and gods of the time. Let's take a look at some of the key symbols and their meanings.
Based loosely on a cross, the loop on top is what makes the Ankh stand out. Said to represent eternal life, this is one powerful symbol. Gods are depicted carrying an ankh to support them in the afterlife. Grab your own piece of eternal life with an Ankh T-Shirt.
Ba has a human head on the body of a bird, representing a human in the spirit world. The features on the face would be those of the deceased. Ba was often depicted in tombs and temples as if something is returning to see the body that carried the being while on earth.
Sometimes referred to as the Red Crown of Egypt, Deshret represents the lands of Wadjet in Lower Egypt.
Resembling a pillar, this hieroglyphic character is said to stand for stability. Sometimes representative of the god of the afterlife, Osiris, it also represented his spine.
One of the most widely-replicated symbols today, this symbol is named after the God of the Sky, Horus, who is said to have lost an eye in battle. It’s a favorite on clothing, such as this Eye of Horus T-Shirt, with several color options available. The Eye of Horus represents good health, protection, and royal power. Sometimes known as the Eye of Ra, thought to be Horus’s right eye, Ra was the sun god, so this symbol can also represent the sun.
Another symbol associated with Horus, the Falcon came to symbolize freedom, vision, and victory. It has become one of the most easily recognizable Egyptian symbols.
Upholding Maat was the responsibility of the pharaoh, and on his death, the world plummeted into chaos that only stopped when a new pharaoh was crowned. The Feather of Maat is indicative of justice, truth and morality.
Where Deshret symbolized Lower Egypt, Hedjet (the White Crown) represented the area of Upper Egypt. The two together formed Pschent - the double crown - when the country was unified.
Resembling two arms outstretched to receive something, Ka is said to show the spiritual power with a person’s body after having survived death. Ka found an eternal place for his body, so bodies were mummified to support them living forever.
The beautiful lotus flower blooms when the sun comes up, and then by nightfall, it closes and sinks beneath the water only to repeat the blossoming again the next day. Naturally, the lotus flower was associated with the sun and creation as a whole.
This is another depiction of the sun, the circular image of a serpent shown eating its own tail. It symbolizes renewal and rebirth, and the never-ending circle symbolizes infinity.
One of the seven wonders of the world, the Egyptian Pyramids still draw a lot of attention today. Built as tombs for the Pharaohs and their associates, the depiction of the pyramid remains one of the most recognizable of all Egyptian symbols.
Another great symbol for a t-shirt, like this Pink Scarab T-Shirt, the Scarab symbolizes rebirth. Ancient Egyptians watched these beetles scurrying into the dry ground and re-emerging, so they became associated with resurrection.
A mythical creature that is one of the most instantly recognizable associations with Ancient Egypt, the sphinx has a human head on the body of a lion. Said to have been on guard at the entrance of Thebes, an ancient Greek city, the sphinx would only grant passage to those who were able to solve a riddle.
Tyet looks similar to the Ankh symbol, and like Ankh, Tyet is generally interpreted as symbolizing life. Sometimes known as the Knot or Blood of Isis, it's symbolic of the magical powers of Isis.
Uraeus was often found on headdresses and foreheads. The rearing cobra with its hood flared symbolizes Wadjet, one of the earliest Egyptian goddesses. Uraeus came to represent sovereignty and the divine, and it symbolizes protection.
This staff was an accessory for the great deities to demonstrate their power. The Was is a staff carried by the gods, with a canine head on the top.
The wings of the sun in this symbol are thought to represent a solar eclipse. By that measure, the symbol is often associated with great power and divinity, as well as royalty. It’s a powerful symbol indeed.
]]>Animals played a large part in Ancient Egyptian culture and mythology. They appeared in many guises, ranging from simple house pets to deities that required worship. This meant that their roles varied from everyday activities to important positions in religious and formal ceremonies.
It is thought that the Ancient Egyptians believed animals had certain qualities that were to be admired by humans. Strength, protectiveness, the ability to conquer their rivals and their sheer intuitive nature led the Ancient Egyptians to revere animals to the point that they would portray their gods in animal form so that their qualities could be displayed through the common traits of the animal. These beliefs were held by both royalty and the everyday man, such was the widespread admiration for animals in this culture.
But what are the individual depictions of each animal within this rich and fascinating historical period? What did the animals stand for, and how did they fit into Ancient Egyptian life?
Cats are probably one of the most common animals to be associated within Ancient Egyptian mythology and are, in fact, thought to originate in their domestic form from this period. Cats were kept as pets for a number of reasons. The everyday man would find them useful as a form of pest control to keep mice at bay. Royalty kept bigger cats such as lions and cheetahs as pets, again for protection and as a representation of their own strength and ferocity. Although they were kept for practical reasons, cats were still valued and much-loved pets. Mummified cats are often found buried with their owners, and certain tomb statues feature a small cat lying at the feet of its owner in a clear display of affection for the domesticated animal.
One of the most well-known cat deities from this period is Bastet, usually represented either in full cat form or as a hybrid - half woman and half cat. She is thought to be a ferocious but nurturing god who represents protectiveness over children and pregnant women. For this reason, she is often linked to fertility and female sexuality. In Ancient Egyptian times, people would often leave mummified cats as an offering to Bastet. It is thought that this was to earn her favor. Years later, thousands of sacred cat remains were found at the site of her temple.
Monkeys and baboons played a big part in Egyptian mythology. They can often be found depicted in ancient documents and drawings as a humanlike species, carrying out tasks such as reading and writing. This led experts to conclude that the Egyptians viewed baboons as intellectual creatures and explains why the moon god Thoth - otherwise known as the god of the scribes - took on the form of a baboon. In ancient documents, Thoth can be seen mediating between humans and the gods - another indication of the human-like communication skills held by monkeys. He is thought to help with the smooth transition to the afterlife, which sometimes involved judgment calls on the potential redemption of a human.
Small monkeys were occasionally kept as pets by wealthier citizens of Ancient Egypt, but their strength, boisterousness and unpredictable nature were never taken for granted.
In Ancient Egypt, crocodiles were viewed as strong and dangerous animals who should be both feared and respected. In order to protect themselves from the wrath of the crocodile, Egyptians would worship the croc-god Sobek, a revered and ferocious deity whose sweat was believed to have created the vast River Nile. There was an element of fear surrounding Sobek, who was also known as "the raging one", but he was also thought to have connotations within growth and fertility of the land. This is another reason that he was worshipped with many temples in his name. Often these would be filled with pools that real crocodiles lived in until they died and were mummified in his honor.
Throughout both Greek and Egyptian mythology, dogs have had a notable association with the afterlife or the underworld. Cerberus is perhaps one of the best-known mythological dogs in Greek culture and was believed to be monstrous with three heads. In Egyptian mythology, Anubis is the primary dog-like god of the afterlife, although he is sometimes depicted as half dog and half jackal.
He is pictured in many tombs, temples and religious settings and is primarily black to represent the soil of the Nile and consequently the act of regeneration back into the earth after death.
]]>Greek mythology still plays a big part in modern life, from the names of some of the biggest brands in the world to discussions about literature, science and the arts. Amazon was named after female warriors, the jewelry brand Pandora takes its name from the very first female mortal to exist in Greek mythology, luxury brand Hermes is named after the messenger of Greek gods, and the list goes on with examples like Nike, Apollo, and even the word "cereal", which comes from Ceres, the Greek god of grain.
Common names such as Troy, Jason, Damon, Helen, Phoebe, and Penelope also hail from Greek mythology, as do all of the names of the star signs of the zodiac, such as Libra and Capricorn, as on this Capricorn T-Shirt, further demonstrating its continuing relevance today. There are even knots named after the stars of Greek mythology, such as the Hercules Knot, as on this Hercules Knot T-Shirt, or reef knot. But can you imagine if Zeus and Hera existed today? Let’s consider how they would fit into the modern world, along with how some of the most famous myths could be applied to the current world.
Zeus was the king of the gods, so there is no doubt that he would be a dominant leader in the modern world. Whether he would be popular is another matter, however, given his womanizing ways and reputation for having a fiery temper. He would probably fit in the mold of a high-profile politician or CEO, but it is likely he would divide opinion in whatever role he filled.
It is likely, however, that some people would appreciate his clear leadership in a troubled world, although it cannot be forgotten that Zeus famously favored war and overthrew his own father, Cronus. He may not, therefore, be the key to more peaceful times. Zeus was known for being a hospitable god, however, and treated merchants and people from other lands well. Perhaps he would have a diplomatic role in current times.
Hera was Zeus’ wife but also a dominant woman in her own right. She is renowned for being beautiful and proud and is a special protector for married women. She represented an ideal view of the female species, and it is hard to consider that she would be anything but some sort of social or political activist with feminist leanings today. U.S. journalist, feminist and social political activist Gloria Steinem could have been cut from the same cloth as Hera, who was powerful in her own right even before she married the King of the Gods.
Phaethon was Helio’s son, and his myth could be seen as a striking prophecy relating to the current climate crisis. His arrogance led to him disobeying his father’s commands and wreaking havoc on the earth and in the skies.
If Phaethon existed today, he would be considered one of the many people in the world who think that they have the power to take nature’s reins, even when it means guiding the planet toward disaster.
There is nowhere that characters from Greek mythology would fit in more than at the Olympic Games. After all, this sporting spectacle began in Ancient Greece around 3,000 years ago. Maybe Poseidon could take to the pool in the postponed Tokyo 2020 event? He certainly wouldn’t be the first competitor to be renowned for his temperamental attitude, although most don’t have the ability to control storms and earthquakes.
The Olympics is a global celebration of sport, but everyone deserves a party after the turmoil of the last year. At the head of the organizing committee for the best celebrations would be Dionysus, the Greek god of wine and festivities. Fun-loving and also the god of fertility, Dionysus would surely know just how to throw a party to remember.
Covid meant many people spent more time at home than usual. Lots of people struggled with this change, but it would have probably been a godsend to Hestia. The goddess of the home and the hearth was considered vital to everyday life in Ancient Greece, and she would have been a real comfort during the troubled times of the global pandemic. People snuggled up in their lockdown loungewear would relish the heat of the legendary fire of Hestia and the flames that were so central to family and community life in times gone by.
]]>For years, people have followed the traditions and beliefs that they connect with and grew up listening to. Those who grew up learning from their elders about the myths and legends of Greece and India share a history that goes back thousands of years and has many similarities.
Zeus is one of the best-known Greek gods. As god of the sky, he is believed to be the protector, ruler and father of all humans and all gods. Illustrations of him show an old and strong-looking man grasping a lightning bolt.
According to Hindu mythology, Indra is also the King of the gods and weather, specifically thunderstorms and lightning, and he is believed to be the cousin of Zeus. Another connection shared by the two Gods is that Indra is said to hail from Mount Meru and Zeus is from Mount Olympus.
Karna is the spiritual son of the Hindu Sun God and Princess Kunti, which makes him a royal demigod. Achilles is best known for his heroics fighting for the Greek army in the Trojan War. He was the son of King Peleus, which also makes him a demigod. Both were warriors and both had mothers who were goddesses of the sea.
The Ramayana War was a fierce battle that lasted a week, after Ravana kidnapped Ram’s wife Seeta. The Trojan war started after Paris of Troy took Helen, the wife of Menelaus, King of Sparta, and ran away with her.
Both Greek and Indian mythology have a Holy Trinity based on a belief in three most important Gods. In Indian mythology, although there are many gods, Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwar are considered the most important. In Greek mythology, Zeus, Hades and Poseidon are all believed to rule heaven.
Both the Indian and Greek mythologies subscribe to the belief that there is a God for everything, including wealth and wisdom.
Hades is the Greek God of the underworld. Similarly, Yama is a Hindu and Buddhist God of death and the underworld.
In Indian mythology, the Saptarishis are thought to be the seven brightest stars that have the power to control the sun. In Greek mythology, the cluster of stars are known as the Pleiades.
In Greek mythology, Icarus, the son of the inventor Daedalus, did not survive transitioning from a boy into a man and fell to the ground. In Indian mythology, Sampati also fell to the ground after he went too close to the sun and burned his wings.
Hermes and Narada share similar personality traits and enjoy tricking and misleading people. The Greek god Hermes was god of many things, including thieves and travel, and was one of the cleverest and naughtiest gods. Narada, the Hindu God, was well-known for being a traveling musician and a storyteller who enjoyed tricking and misleading people.
Another form of mythology is horoscopes, which are linked to the time a person is born into the world. The word originates from the Greek words "ora", which means "time", and "scopos", which means "observer". In Hindu astrology, they believe in a relationship between the movement of the stars and moon. People around the world subscribe to the meanings and predictions related to horoscopes, and there is a huge market in associated clothing and jewelry. T-shirts bearing the star signs, like this Libra Colours T-shirt, are a great way to show your connection with your star sign.
Other symbols people believe in include the Shaman’s Healing Hand. A tradition that started in Japan more than 100 years ago, the symbol originates from the tradition of Reiki. Reiki principles are said to heal negative emotions in the body, including anger and stress, and heal hurt from the past. The hand and fingers are said to be full of energy and that transfers from the healer to the client. It can also ward off evil. T-shirts with the symbol are available in a variety of colors and sizes, such as this Purple Shaman's Healing Hand T-shirt.
The Laughing Buddha is recognized around the world and comes from a legend that says a happy Zen monk called Budai brought good luck and charm to many. His laughing face and large, round belly is now found on clothing, art and ornaments, such as this Orange Laughing Buddha T-shirt.
Mythology is as fascinating today as it has always been, and these gods and symbols highlight the strengths and weaknesses in all of us.
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