The Secret Language Of Symbols

Explores the culture, history, and psychology that lies behind a wide range of symbols.

Unlock the secret meanings of the symbols that surround us. The New Secret Language of Symbols is a beautifully illustrated sourcebook of symbols and symbol systems. An illuminating introduction looks at the cultural and psychological explanations of symbols - including the Jungian idea of the collective unconscious. Then follows "The World of Symbols", the heart of the book in which more than 500 symbols are presented and explained theme by theme - from the elemental symbolism of the cosmos to the multiplicity of meanings associated with manmade objects and structures. We learn, for example, about the various forms of dragon in myth, the symbolism of sacred geometry, the attributes of gods, goddesses, angels and mythic heroes, the array of associations ascribed to body parts, and the significance of such practical features as the anchor or the bridge. Interspersed with these thematic treatments are more than a dozen overviews of symbolrich cultures, religions, esoteric groups and symbol systems, ranging from ancient Egypt to the Tarot. Each overview is centred upon a major image that is decoded to expose its deeper, often cryptic, meanings - thereby giving the reader revealing insights into the thinking behind some of the world's most beautiful and intriguing art, artefacts and architecture. Throughout The New Secret Language of Symbols David Fontana has unpeeled layers of profound historical and psychological significance, probed the ancient roots of a vast range of symbols, and in the process - like a gifted archaeologist who knows exactly where to look and how to interpret what he finds - he has unearthed boundless treasures.

Magnificently illustrated throughout, and with a six-color gold-foil cover, this remarkable book provides an all-encompassing survey of the literature, painting, sculpture, architecture, and decorative arts of the Renaissance.

In every moment the universe is whispering to you. Even ordinary events in your life carry communications from the realm of the Spirit. . . . Whether we are conscious of it or not, the universe is communicating to us through signs. In this mind-opening book, renowned healer and author Denise Linn shows that coincidence, synchronicity, and those premonitions we've all experienced are never accidents but a kindly world's way of trying to nudge us in the right direction. Drawing on firsthand true stories and native wisdom from around the world, Linn helps us regain our innate capacity to listen to the universe, to use the signs that speak to us every day of our lives. Step by step, she shows us how to call for a sign, how to create the best conditions for receiving it, and how to interpret the signs we receive, with the most comprehensive dictionary of signs ever compiled. Designed to help you develop your own ability to interpret signs as they call to you, the dictionary entries give you a starting point for understanding what your signs are communicating. For instance . . * An abyss might symbolize a chasm in your life. Is there something that seems impassable to you? * A storm can indicate internal conflict. It can also indicate that the air is clearing in regard to a situation in your life. * A crossroads signifies that a time of decision is ahead. Take time and tune in to your intuition before choosing your future path. * Smoke can be a warning of danger. Is there a situation in your life that's about to go up in flames? Smoke can also indicate a lack of clarity. With this powerful, easy-to-use guide, Denise Linn helps us to reconnect with the magic of our inner selves to make the right decisions and choices in our lives.

Who is depicted in that stained glass window? What is the significance of those geometric figures? Why are there fierce-looking beasts carved amidst all that beauty? Is there a deeper purpose behind the play of light and space in the nave? Why is there a pelican on the lectern and ornate foliage on the pillars? The largely illiterate medieval audience could read the symbols of churches and cathedrals and recognise the meanings and stories deliberately encoded into them. For worshippers these were places of religious education and an awe-inspiring feast that satisfied both the senses and the soul. Today, in an age less attuned to iconography, such places of worship are often seen merely as magnificent works of architecture. This book restores the lost spiritual meaning of these fine and fascinating buildings. The Secret Language of Churches & Cathedrals provides a three-part illustrated key by which modern visitors can understand the layout, fabric and decorative symbolism of Christian sacred structures - thereby bringing back to life their original atmosphere of awe and sanctity. Part One is an analysis of structural features, outside and in, from spires and domes to clerestories and brasses. Part Two is a theme-by-theme guide, which identifies significant figures, scenes, stories, animals, flowers, and the use of numbers, letters and patterns in paintings, carvings and sculpture. Part Three is a historical decoder, revealing the evolution of styles - from basilicas through Byzantine, Romanesque, Gothic and beyond. For all those who seek to know more about Christian art and architecture, this richly illustrated book will instruct and delight in equal measure.

This credible, highly readable, and vividly illustrated encyclopedic volume traces the origins and evolution of hundreds of symbols and symbol systems that have impacted human culture, history, art, and psychology since the dawn of time. From the I Ching and the Chakras to the Tarot and the Zodiac; from mythical beasts and magical numbers to heraldic shields and geometric shapes, author and psychologist David Fontana identifies symbols from around the world and draws upon his experience with dream workshops and meditation to help readers deepen their understanding and appreciation of these intriguing icons. Relevant, compelling, and visually appealing, The Secret Language of Symbols is a unique and practical reference tool, as well as an inspiring guide to the images that give meaning to our everyday lives.

Unlock the lost and hidden meanings of the world's ancient and modern signs and symbols with the latest in the hugely popular series of 'Element Encyclopedias'. This is the biggest A-Z reference book on symbolic objects you'll ever find.

Classical myth and legend - The bible and life of Christ - Saints and their miracles - History, literature and the arts - Symbols and allegories.