If you’ve ever wondered what the various symbols etched into headstones symbolize when strolling through a cemetery, you have. Tombstone symbols have a deep and fascinating meaning. In essence, it is a chronicle of humankind and its many belief systems.
Many symbols will have a more personal significance, while some are just random symbols included for aesthetic purposes. These symbols have significance even today. You may rely on headstone webster ny while selecting a headstone symbol. They will make an impact that will stay and mean something, enabling your loved one to be remembered in a way that they would be proud of. The meanings of some of the most popular headstone emblems are briefly explained here.
Angels
Angels are a sign of spirituality, particularly according to Judeo-Christian beliefs. They act as liaisons between God and the rest of humanity and are revered as guardians of the grave they look over. Angels in various positions are frequently etched onto tombstones. Each stance, predictably, has a certain significance. Another illustration would be an angel bearing a human, which may mean that the angel was transporting the departed person’s soul to paradise
A Book
Numerous symbols can be represented by a book placed on a gravestone. Maybe the individual was a passionate writer or reader on a personal level. In symbolic terms, the Bible is typically represented by an open book. An image of a book on a headstone represents learning, prayer, and religious observance. It may also be interpreted as a memory sign.
Irish Cross and Celtic Cross
The Celtic and Irish Cross, shown as a cross with a circle through the middle of its upper half, is a representation of eternity and life eternal. The sun is entwined with the cross because it is also connected to pagans who worship the sun. Several Irish stories describe how St. Patrick led heathens into Christianity by using the Celtic Cross as a tool.
Dove
The dove is a peace and love symbol found in both Jewish and Christian traditions. It also represents resurrection. Usually etched in an upward position, doves represent the soul’s ascent into paradise. A dove descending from heaven to guide the soul of the deceased implies safe passage. A bird clutching an olive branch is another popular representation, signifying the perfect serenity attained upon discovering heaven.
Laurels
Another typical sign seen in graves is laurel leaves. They represent the triumphant feeling of immortality and everlasting life and are usually shown as a wreath. Because of its connection to eternity, the wreath itself symbolizes a triumph over death.
Ivy
Ivy and vines are connected to the enduring quality of genuine friendship. This relationship has a legitimate foundation. The ivy vine’s infamously difficult removal is the reason for its link with regeneration and rebirth.
Olive Tree
The olive branch and the dove are related, and they both have similar meanings in terms of love and tranquility. But Greek mythology is also connected to the olive branch.
Greek mythology states that the city that would become Athens received an olive tree as a gift from the goddess Athena. As a sign of goodwill, national ambassadors would frequently offer their foreign colleagues an olive branch.
Bottom Line
After someone passes away, a headstone serves as a permanent memorial. The burial marker’s words and symbols eternally encapsulate the life and spirit of the departed. Although most tombstone symbols may be deduced by professionals, not all interpretations can be independently confirmed.
