Symbols and Signs in Various Contexts

Symbols and signs play significant roles in communication, culture, religion, and identity. Symbols convey multiple meanings, while signs have singular meanings. They are prevalent in religion, sacraments, identity, and even everyday gestures. Understanding the language of symbols helps in interpreting and appreciating diverse cultural contexts and beliefs.

• Symbols
• Signs
• Religion
• Communication
• Identity

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1. Chapter Twenty-Four Sign and Symbol

2. Symbols and Signs A symbol is an image, picture, object, word or gesture that means something beyond itself. A symbol has many meanings A sign is an image, picture, object, word or gesture that means something beyond itself. A sign only has one meaning

3. The Meaning of Symbols A symbol s meaning depends on a number of factors: Who is seeing it Where they are seeing it Their past experience of this symbol

4. Symbols The Language of Religion Symbols express many of the things religion is about Behind the symbol is a deeper meaning Words, gestures and objects can all be symbolic Symbolic words: Peace be with you Symbolic gesture: taking off your shoes as you enter a mosque. Symbolic object: a Jewish yarmulke or skullcap

5. Major Religious Symbols Hinduism Aum Judaism Star of David Buddhism eight-spoked wheel Christianity cross Islam star and crescent moon

7. Sacraments and Symbol The celebration of sacraments often involves the use of symbols. For example: water in baptism laying on of hands during Confirmation exchanging rings during a wedding An opportunity to experience God s presence is developed through the use of symbols Symbols can make sacraments easier to understand

8. Symbols and Identity Identity means the characteristics that define a person or a group The identity of a community can be summed up in its symbol A community can then be identified by its symbol

9. Symbols Icons Icons are Christian images or pictures made of wood. They are usually of Jesus, Mary, the Evangelists or a saint Popular in the Orthodox tradition The Greek word eikon means likeness or image Features of an icon may be used to teach things about Jesus Icons are symbolic

10. Symbols Candles A symbol of the power of light over darkness and good over evil Hinduism: candles are used during the festival of Diwali Christianity: candles are used during Advent and at Baptism Judaism: candles are lit in a menorah and during Hanukkah, the festival of lights