Slavic ornaments and their meaning. Slavic patterns

Mezen painting is one of the most ancient Russian artistic crafts. Folk artists used it to decorate most household items that accompanied a person from birth to old age, bringing joy and beauty to life. She occupied great place in the design of facades and interiors of huts. Like most other folk crafts, this painting received its name from the area in which it originated. The Mezen River is located in the Arkhangelsk region, between the two largest rivers Northern Europe, Northern Dvina and Pechora, on the border of taiga and tundra.

This painting was called Mezenskaya because its homeland is considered to be the village of Palashchelye, located on the banks of the Mezen River, which was first mentioned as a center for wood painting in 1906. Therefore, in encyclopedias and various books on fine arts you can find the second name of Mezen painting - Palashchelskaya. In Mezen itself they did not do painting.

First of all, Mezen painting is its own original ornament. This ornament attracts and fascinates, despite its apparent simplicity. And objects painted with Mezen painting seem to glow from within, exuding the goodness and wisdom of their ancestors. Every detail of the Mezen painting ornament is deeply symbolic. Every square and diamond, leaf and twig, animal or bird are exactly in the place where they should be in order to tell us the story of the forest, wind, earth and sky, the thoughts of the artist and the ancient images of the northern Slavs.

Symbols of animals, birds, fertility, harvest, fire, sky, and other elements come from rock paintings and are a type of ancient writing that conveys the traditions of the peoples of the North of Russia. So, for example, the image of a horse, in the tradition of the peoples who have inhabited this area since ancient times, symbolizes the sunrise, and the image of a duck is the order of things, it carries the sun into underwater world until dawn and keeps it there.

Traditionally, objects painted with Mezen painting have only two colors - red and black (soot and ocher, later red lead). The painting was applied to unprimed wood with a special wooden stick (vice), a capercaillie or black grouse feather, or a human hair brush. Then the product dried, which gave it a golden color. At present, in general, the technology and technique of Mezen painting have been preserved, with the exception that brushes have begun to be used more often.


The origins of the symbols of Mezen painting primarily lie in the mythological worldview of the peoples of the ancient north. For example, the frequent occurrence of multi-tiered structures indicates adherence to the shamanic tradition. Three tiers - three worlds (lower, middle and upper or underground, above-ground and heavenly). This is the basis of the shamanic worldview of many peoples of the north. In the Mezen painting, the lower and middle tiers are filled with deer and horses. The top tier is birds. The rows of black and red horses in tiers may also signify the worlds of the dead and the living. Numerous solar signs placed around horses and deer emphasize their unearthly origin. The image of a horse among the peoples of the Russian north is also a talisman (a horse on the roof), as well as a symbol of the sun, fertility, and a source of life's blessings.

The tiers are separated by horizontal stripes filled with a repeating pattern. Elements of such patterns, as well as some other frequently occurring elements of Mezen painting, are shown in the figures below.

Earth. A straight line can mean both the heavenly and the earthly firmament, but do not be confused by this ambiguity. By their location in the composition (top - bottom), you can always correctly determine their meaning. In many myths about the creation of the world, the first man was created from the dust of the earth, dirt, and clay. Motherhood and protection, a symbol of fertility and daily bread - this is what the earth is for humans. Graphically, the earth is often depicted as a square.

Water. The celestial design is no less interesting. Heavenly waters are stored in hanging clouds or spilled onto the earth in oblique rains, and the rains can be accompanied by wind or hail. Ornaments in an oblique stripe most of all reflect such paintings natural phenomena.

Wavy lines of the water element are present in abundance in Mezen ornaments. They certainly accompany all straight lines of ornaments, and are also permanent attributes of waterfowl.

Wind, air. Numerous short strokes scattered in Mezen painting on ornaments or next to the main characters most likely mean air, wind - one of the primary elements of nature. A poetic image of a revived spirit, whose influence can be seen and heard, but which itself remains invisible. Wind, air and breath are closely related in mystical symbolism. Genesis begins with the Spirit of God. He flew like the wind over the abyss before the creation of the world.

Besides the spiritual aspect of this symbol, specific winds are often interpreted as violent and unpredictable forces. Demons were believed to fly on fierce winds that carried evil and disease. Like any other element, the wind can bring destruction, but people also need it as a powerful creative force. It’s not for nothing that Mezen masters love to depict harnessed elements. Their wind strokes are often “strung” on crossed straight lines, which is very similar to a windmill (“Caught in the wind,” the children say).

Fire. Divine energy, purification, revelation, transformation, inspiration, ambition, temptation, passion, is a strong and active element, symbolizing both creative and destructive forces. The ancients considered fire to be a living creature that feeds, grows, dies, and then is born again - signs that suggest that fire is the earthly embodiment of the sun, so it shared much of the solar symbolism. In pictorial terms, everything that tends to a circle reminds us of the sun and fire. As academician B. Rybakov believes, the spiral motif arose in the mythology of agricultural tribes as a symbolic movement of the sun across the vault of heaven. In Mezen painting, spirals are scattered everywhere: they are enclosed within the framework of numerous ornaments and curl in abundance around celestial horses and deer.

The spiral itself carries other symbolic meanings. Spiral shapes are found in nature very often, from galaxies to whirlpools and tornadoes, from mollusk shells to drawings on human fingers. In art, the spiral is one of the most common decorative patterns. The ambiguity of symbols in spiral patterns is great, and their use is more involuntary than conscious. A compressed spiral spring is a symbol of hidden power, a ball of energy. The spiral, combining the shape of a circle and the momentum of movement, is also a symbol of time, the cyclical rhythms of the seasons. Double spirals symbolize the balance of opposites, harmony (like the Taoist yin-yang sign). The opposing forces, clearly present in whirlpools, tornadoes and flames, are reminiscent of the ascending, descending or rotating energy (“whirlpool”) that governs the Cosmos. The ascending spiral is a masculine sign, the descending spiral is a feminine sign, which makes the double spiral also a symbol of fertility and childbirth.

The ancient signs of fertility are interesting and beautiful - symbols of abundance.

Wherever they were placed, and everywhere they were in place! If you hang a zhikovina (keyhole cover) of this shape on the door of a barn, it means wishing it to be full of goodness. If you draw a sign of abundance on the bottom of a spoon, it means wishing that there would never be hunger. If on the hem of wedding shirts - wish the newlyweds a big complete family. The sign of fertility can be found on ancient cult figurines depicting young pregnant women, which was placed where the child of the expectant mother is. Almost all Mezen ornaments are in one way or another connected with the theme of fertility and abundance. They depict plowed fields, seeds, roots, flowers, and fruits in abundance and variety. The ornament can be built in two rows and then the elements in it are arranged in a checkerboard pattern. An important symbol was the diamond, endowed with many meanings. Most often, a rhombus was a symbol of fertility, the rebirth of life, and a chain of rhombuses meant the family tree of life. On one of the Mezen spinning wheels we were able to see a half-erased image of just such a unique tree.

Straight check patterns
Geometric patterns have become widespread in folk art. It can be found especially often among weavers and embroiderers. The basis of the ornament is made up of rhombuses, squares, crosses and swastika images. The diamond-dot pattern is a symbol of fertility among agricultural peoples.

Simple elements
Not a single painting is complete without depicting all kinds of zigzag and spiral shapes. They are especially common when depicting the world tree, or “tree of life.” Researchers believe that spirals and zigzags are nothing more than the image of snakes, which are always present in such scenes.

Patterns in oblique cage

The motif of a bird bringing good news or a gift is widespread in folk art. A bird on the top of a tree can often be found on Mezen birch bark trees. The bird is perhaps the most favorite motif of folk artists. In addition, it is the custom of northern peasants to hang wooden birds made from chips in the red corner of the hut. This is a relic of the same motif - “a bird on a tree”, since the revered tree was associated with the red corner of the house.

Quite often found on Mezen spinning wheels is the image of several trees or a single standing tree, often ate. Of particular interest is the composition of three trees: two identical trees are located symmetrically with respect to the central tree, which stands out relatively large size. The fact that such a plot is not accidental on Mezen spinning wheels is evidenced by the fact that the same plot takes place in the painting of antique furniture in Mezen houses.

Among the most common and favorite images, most often depicted by Mezen masters, are images of horses and deer. The horses of the Mezen paintings, to a greater extent than the images of horses in other peasant paintings, are distant from real prototype. Most of them had a red-orange color, which, as is known, is unusual for horses. The body of a black horse was often covered with a continuous lattice pattern, further emphasizing its unusual origin. The unnaturally long and thin legs of the horses ended at the ends with the image of feathers, similar to those drawn on birds.

Often the horses were depicted not following each other, but opposing each other. Sometimes riders fighting each other were depicted on rearing horses. The fact that the horses depicted on the spinning wheels are of unearthly origin is also evidenced by the numerous solar signs placed by the draftsmen above the manes and near the legs of the horses.

The images of animal figures are very similar to each other. The only difference between deer and horses is that instead of a mane, branched antlers are drawn behind their backs with the same black strokes. Children copy the proposed image of a deer or horse. Each subsequent image of the animal differs from the previous one by the appearance of additional details.

IN school curriculum An important place in the study of national culture is occupied by ancient images in folk art. Fine arts (fine arts) begin to be taught from primary classes, and one of the first topics is devoted to the symbols that our distant ancestors embroidered on clothes, carved on wooden utensils, and depicted on jewelry and clay pots. They served not only as decoration - they carried a sacred meaning.

Spiritualization of images

Encoded in architectural compositions, household items, works of art and folklore texts, ancient images in folk art reflect the ideas of our ancestors about the world around us. The outstanding scientist Nikolai Kostomarov considered ancient symbols to be a figurative manifestation of moral ideas with the help of objects of physical nature endowed with spiritual properties.

Academician Vernadsky noted that works of folk art reveal the life of a given era and a given people, and thanks to this one can study and understand the soul of the people. He recognized the deep symbolism of artistic creativity that the Cosmos gives us, passing through the consciousness of a living being.

Basic images

Examples of sacred symbols and their meaning are presented in an accessible form in the school topic “Ancient images in folk art” (grade 5, fine arts). These are geometric patterns, images of the sun, eggs, the Tree of Life, sky, water, mother earth, images of animals and others.

  • The sun personified the womb of the Universe.
  • The Tree of Life is the center of the universe, the hierarchical structure of existence.
  • The egg is a symbol of life, celestial sphere, from which stars and planets arise.
  • The image of the Earth was associated with the image of a mother-nurse.
  • The sky, earth, water, animals and plants, fire, manifestations of nature (wind, rain, snow, etc.) were depicted with the help of ornaments.

Sun

This is the most ancient image in folk art. The sun was considered the center of the world and the source of life, symbolizing heavenly spirituality, often taking on the image of individual gods. The cult of the Sun was worldwide. In 1114 it is stated that “The Sun is the king, the son of Svarog, who is Dazhbog.” According to other sources, Svarog was considered.

The sun is the “Eye of God”, which is endowed with the epithets “holy”, “righteous”, “clear”, “red”, “beautiful”. Later, the Sun occupies a special place in the celestial hierarchy next to the Almighty: clear month, bright sun and God of Heaven. Let us remember who pointed out the need to give “morning Praise to God, and then to the rising sun.”

The school textbook about ancient images in folk art (grade 5) says that the Sun was symbolized by our ancestors allegorically in the form of rhombuses, round rosettes and even horses (symbolizing the arrival of spring). They were used to decorate women's hats, belts, beads, baked goods, wedding loaves, Easter eggs, ceramics, etc.

Tree of Life

This is no less ancient image in folk art than the Sun. The Tree of Life symbolizes the trinity of the world, the mythical bird - the creator of Existence. It unites the sky (branches), the earth (trunk) and the underworld (roots). Tree also means genus - hence the name “family tree”, “roots of the genus”, “native roots”.

The image of the Tree of Life has perhaps the most complex ornamental structure. This is a fancy pattern depicting a spreading tree, with leaves, large fruits and flowers. Often the tops of the ornamental tree are crowned with images (hence the expressions “blue bird”, “bird of happiness”). Canonically, the Tree is depicted growing from a bowl (vessel), thereby indicating the origins of its roots from the sacred womb (the container of the world, the universe). The famous folklorist Ksenophon Sosenko noted that the idea of ​​the World Tree “is considered by the people as the first peacemaking factor.”

Mother Earth

The Earth has always been associated with the female image of the mother, because the Earth is a nurse. The goddess of fertility is found in many world cultures. Ancient images in folk art of Mother Earth were personified with a large-breasted woman. She can give birth to children and produce crops. Until now, archaeologists have found figures of female wooden idols installed in the fields.

In ornamental images, Mother Earth almost always stands with her hands raised to the sky, and instead of a head, a rhombus can be depicted - one of these. This emphasizes the dependence of the harvest on solar heat and sky (rain).

Sky

According to ancient beliefs, the Sky was considered the core of the universe, a symbol of the cosmos, that is, order and harmony, the source of life. The semantics of the word “sky” among many peoples means “number”, “harmony”, “middle”, “order”, “navel”, “life” (in particular in Latin, English, Latvian, Hittite, Irish, Welsh images in folk art endowed Heaven with special power: often the interpretation of the word “sky” is consonant with the concept of “God”.

Our distant ancestors believed that the Sky is a river along which the bright sun travels. Sometimes a cow was identified with Heaven, which was considered a celestial being and was called the “heavenly cow.” People saw Heaven as a hemisphere, a dome, a lid, a vessel that protected them. Images of the sky were depicted on painted eggs, shirts, towels, carpets, etc.

Ornament

Since ancient times, pottery, woven, embroidered, painted, wicker, carved wooden and stone household items were decorated with various ornaments. The patterns had ideological semantics and compositionally consisted of simple elements: dots, zigzags, curls, straight and spiral lines, circles, crosses and others. Among the main groups and types of ornaments (geometric, floral, zoomorphic and anthropomorphic), researchers identify a group of symbols of celestial bodies (sun, moon, stars, etc.).

It was in the form of ornaments that ancient images were most often depicted in folk art. The central place in such compositions was usually occupied by the astral signs of celestial fire, stars, sun and month. Later, these deified elements were transformed into floral designs.

Conclusion

The Sun, the Tree of Life, Mother Earth, the Sky, the Month - these are the main ancient images in folk art. Discussion of their meanings both in school lessons and among scientists develops into a fascinating debate. It is enough to imagine yourself in the place of a long-standing ancestor to understand what an indelible impression is made by the majestic sunrise and the bottomless depth of the sky above, the riot of the elements and the pacifying fire of the hearth. Our ancestors captured all this beauty, grandeur, and unbridledness in the ways available to them for future generations.

Ancient Slavic symbols

Original ancient Slavic symbols carry encrypted messages in their images. Our ancestors realized the simplicity and complexity of perception of the World. Each group, which includes Slavic signs and symbols, has a direct impact on our true desires. Thanks to this, the consciousness is tuned to a healthy tone of work.

Slavic protective symbols are divided by element; they are conductors of male or female energy. Symbols adjust consciousness, perform protective functions, and serve as guides between the worlds created by the Rod. This article is the key to understanding swastika and runic symbolism. Here you will find everything you need to interpret Slavic symbols used in embroidery of folk clothing, in everyday life, in military affairs, and in sorcery.

Perception of a graphic image by the brain

For modern people, it is no secret that our brain is a complex and mysterious phenomenon. Conventionally, it is divided into two halves: conscious and unconscious perception of reality. Its structure contains the evolution of humanity itself.

Called the “oblongata,” the oldest department is responsible for our primary instincts, actions that are not controlled by us intentionally. It is also responsible for our reaction to any phenomenon and the subsequent work of the whole organism.

The most amazing thing is that Slavic signs and symbols are able to directly convey information to this department. In this case, images of Scandinavian runes or Celtic script do not have such an effect. This is due to the fact that our deep departments store codes for deciphering genetic memory.

Thus, Slavic symbols come into contact with our brain. They conduct a dialogue not only with us, but also with a whole generation of ancestors. The graphic structure of each sign is read, conveying the underlying information at the root level.

Static lines and dynamics

Considering ancient Slavic symbols as geometric designs, you can notice them amazing property. Simple lines are woven into a pattern that is perceived as movement. This is not an optical effect. We fix the direction, and the brain completes the dynamics according to its ideas.

The ingenious solution was the fruit of the observation skills of our ancestors. Thrift and sensitivity created these images in their worldview. Every stroke honors logic and the absence of anything superfluous or cumbersome.

Slavic signs and symbols - what did our Ancestors see in them?

All symbols can be divided into groups:

  • magical and protective;
  • tied to the elements;
  • personifying the Gods;
  • reflecting natural phenomena;
  • for different generation groups;
  • patrons of crafts.

The most incomprehensible thing is that Slavic symbols, with all their diversity, have common features. They are aimed at uniting the soul and spirit of a person.

Our Ancestors believed in the complexity and multifaceted structure of the World. Such was the man, in their opinion. The individual was divided into spirit, which filled the essence with content. Moreover, the soul was another phenomenon bestowed by the Gods.

Despite all the division, the ancient Slavic symbols were not isolated from each other. They had specialization, but at the same time they had common features. Thus, each sign was part of the whole and complemented the whole picture.

Mysterious messages from the past: Slavic signs in the structure of the Universe

The ancient Slavic symbols known to us store not only specific information. They carry codes for the structure of the Universe. It is already known that the Slavs knew about the diversity of cosmic luminaries. They had access to information about those celestial bodies that cannot be seen without special equipment.

Space exploration researcher Jacob Nikolaevich Borzhevsky once noticed that the structure of the solar sign of the Solstice resembles a rotating galaxy. Considering his assumption in more detail, he became convinced of the similarity of other Slavic symbols with the appearance of cosmic bodies.

It remains to be seen how much knowledge we have not yet inherited from our ancestors. And what secrets do the ancient drawings hold? Perhaps the combination of symbols reveals amazing details about the creation of our Universe or the possibility of interstellar travel.

How information about symbols was collected

For a long time, scientists attributed the available information about the images found to applied art. The Slavic protective symbols now collected are the product of long and painstaking work.

Only a part of the surviving ancient monuments became a clue to the true meaning of the marks. With each new city discovered or temple excavated, the number of images multiplied. At the same time, there was no longer any doubt that the graphic images carried sacred and cult information.

Mosiaci Etruscans

Ethnographers and adherents of the primordial faith conducted their own research, adding transcripts to the treasury. The source of reliable information was the folk epic, which you can still get in touch with. Epics, sayings and other information revealed the true meaning of Slavic signs.

Analogies with symbols of other countries

Considering Slavic symbols, one can note their affinity with other cultures. One of the fundamental designs - the Cross - can be found in culture Ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, Scandinavia, Kelst and Germanic cultures, Anglo-Saxon, Hinduism and Buddhism.

The crossed lines denoting a field have a similar meaning in all cultures. The swastika, or Solstice, has the same design and meaning in all cultures.

Buddha statue

Swastika Slavic symbols can be traced on the map of the entire globe. This fact is confirmed by:

  • folklore;
  • excavations;
  • religious movements of many nations, where swastika symbols serve as the basis of the cult movement;
  • the architecture of ancient buildings, which are many thousands of years old.

One example of such monuments of ancient architecture are the temple buildings of the city of Baalbek, located in Lebanon. Baalbek is considered one of the oldest cities in the world. Unique footage was provided by employees of the Veles online store.

Temple buildings of the city of Baalbek

However, Slavic protective symbols, despite all the similarities with the cultures of other countries, have their own unique impact on our consciousness.

Protective properties

Slavic protective symbols for the culture of modern man enjoy great attention. The need to understand oneself and feel a connection with roots leads people to study meanings. Each outline carries its own unique information, which is aimed at eliminating blocks and negative programs in the mind.

Due to their positive essence, Slavic protective symbols have the following influence:

  • to a holistic perception of one’s personality;
  • setting up internal life systems;
  • harmonization of energy metabolism;
  • restoration of mental balance;
  • creating strong logical connections between parts of the brain;
  • balance of perception of reality.

By putting on the chosen symbol, a person interacts with it at all levels of his essence. This allows him to build his own shield from negative external influences. A complex or simple interweaving of lines works as a cipher against the penetration of hostile entities. Thus, the owner receives not just protection, but also help from the ancestors themselves.

Meaning and interpretation of Slavic symbols

Our ancestors passed on the description of Slavic symbols orally. The process of Christianization largely disrupted the continuity of generations. That is why among modern admirers of ancestral culture, disputes and disagreements are raging in the true interpretation of Slavic symbols. However, it is necessary to understand that our modern perception differed in many ways from the way of life of our ancestors. Accumulated knowledge, sacred meaning and a unique worldview were invested in each cult image.

How did our ancestors perceive the world?

The intricate ligature of patterns left by our ancestors carries a whole ocean of knowledge. In trying to decipher their meaning, we little think about how different a person’s worldview is then and now.

Modern man is surrounded by various encrypted and open information. Artificial clutter blocks the true perception of things. Our ancestors put into Slavic symbols and their meaning only that information that has real meaning for the body and spirit.

Our ancestors saw intricate patterns in every bend of a branch or plexus of a web. The openness and emancipation of consciousness allowed them to read information without distortion. That is why studying the basics of the signs and symbols of the Slavs is a kind of healing of the mind from the layers of unnecessary intellectual load.

Subtleties of energetic connection with the universe

The description of Slavic symbols contains many provisions about energy metabolism. The direction, number of turns and smoothness of the lines are important. For our forefathers, all this served as a kind of map of ley lines along which they channeled their energy.

In the center of each image there is always a place for the most important element - a living beating heart. The symbol itself is part of a single flow of power. Reuniting with a person, this chaotic energy of life is transformed into creation.

After all, only man is capable of transforming the world around us according to your inner state. That is why it is necessary to select symbols carefully, with knowledge of the subtleties.

Slavic signs: interpretation of the symbol

Even in the culture of our ancestors, the interpretation of Slavic symbols was a real art. Knowledge of the rules of design and the time of making an amulet or amulet was highly valued. It was possessed by the most experienced members of the community and some masters.

Geometry of life

An amazing fact, but Slavic symbols and their meaning are directly related to geometry. Even before this science acquired its own name, its fundamentals were actively used by our ancestors.

Basic geometric shapes in symbolism:

  • cross - determination of the four cardinal directions, distribution of energy;
  • circle - the sphere of each life level;
  • square, rhombus, rectangle - stability of positions;
  • point - basis, creation, outcome;
  • a bend is a complex figure that represents movement.

Our ancestors understood the structure of any geometric phenomenon more deeply and widely. Stable, clear angles are combined with soft, fluid transitions. This is the center of ideal balance in which any act of creation is possible.

Direction in sign

The most common description of the right-hand and left-hand directions in signs. However, the description of Slavic symbols includes much more complex provisions. If you compare the movement of the symbol with the direction of blood flow through the human body, you can get a clear picture of the distribution of energy according to the sign.

IN female body the left half of the hemisphere has the greatest activity, in men - the right. This affects the activity of the vascular system. That is why female and male symbols have different effects on representatives of different genders.

Marking on clothes

The interpretation of Slavic symbols contains sacred information about human capabilities. The combination of a cross and an oval gives a stable composition of flow distribution and suppression of third-party interference. Broken and smooth lines give direction to the active zones of our body.

If creativity prevails in a person, he is able to give more than he receives. This creates an unstable position in the exchange of energies. In the old days, such a person’s relatives would have embroidered his shirt with diamonds and squares. Thus, his energy through the prism of the sign would be in balance.

Masculine and feminine principles

Slavic symbolism is divided according to the principle of strengthening energy centers. In this series, male Slavic symbols combine a list of signs associated with the elements of air and heavenly fire. Whereas Slavic symbols for women are addressed to the moon, the water element, and the earthly principle. All of them constitute a single cycle of balanced protective symbols.

Male Slavic symbols

The traditional Slavic symbol for a man represents:

  • strength;
  • protection;
  • freedom;
  • movement;
  • power.

All these signs belong to the elements of fire, air and heavenly light. The semantic load that the Slavic symbol carries for a man is aimed at awakening his true beginning.

Sword in the symbolism of the Slavs

The symbols that deserve special attention are swords. They have different shapes, but each sign has characteristic features:

  • direction;
  • size;
  • sustainability.

The sword is an attribute of power, protection and patronage. These concepts were perceived in the broadest aspect. Divine protection, absolute power. However, this implied a wise perception of one’s power, aimed at the benefit of the community. Swords served as a protective and attacking symbol at the same time.

Kolovrat

Kolovrat is the personification of rebirth, the rising energy of life. He absorbed the cosmogonic picture of the structure of the World created by our ancestors. It is a direct reference to ancient knowledge about the Universe.

Ratiborets

The Patriarch is a bright solar symbol, the true embodiment of universal fire. It is not just sunlight, but rather a flash in which life begins. One of the strongest signs of the male line.

Yarovrat

The Yarovrat sign refers to the art of war and agriculture. Our ancestors praised the plowman on a par with the defender. There are two styles of Yarovrat - six- and four-rayed. At the same time, the root “yar” makes a reference to a blazing fire that protects from darkness.

Falcon

The image of the Falcon is interpreted as freedom, victory, superiority, protection. In mythopoetics, the Slavic symbol for a man means the ascension of the spirit, the fulfillment of a karmic duty to the family.

Slavic symbols for women

A special place was occupied by female Slavic symbols, personifying creation and creation.

There are hidden messages in every female sign:

  • fertility;
  • veneration of ancestors;
  • hidden sacred knowledge;
  • women's health.

According to surviving information, Slavic symbols for women were compiled based on their status, occupation and significance for the community.

Lunnitsa

Almost all female Slavic symbols are divided into three age periods. The lunnitsa depicts the young moon, it is a symbol of the tide and fertility. It could be worn by young unmarried women who had recently gotten married.

Woman in labor

One of the oldest symbols, Rozhanitsa personifies the connection with the family and ancestors. This is the power of matriarchy, the protection of the most valuable gift - childbirth. He is creation, creation and giving of life in one image. The symbol was worn by women who had reached maturity, were married and had children.

Ladinets

The paired sign Ladinets echoes the male symbol Kolyadnik. This is a symbol of the harmony of two principles. It contains the protection of the feminine chaotic principle, ready to move into a peaceful state of creation. It contains two figures representing fire and the full moon.

The amulet is intended for women who practice mysticism. It is a strong protection and guide in the Implicit World. Protects from false knowledge, opens consciousness. Through it, the owner reveals the deep ancient feminine magic.

Symbols of Slavic Gods and their meaning

Universal love is the power that the symbols of the Slavic gods carry. Each sign contains unique codes that reveal the secrets of the Universe. Through the symbols of the Slavic gods and their meaning, we receive the blessing of our ancestors.

Strength and harmony in every sign

In the minds of our ancestors, the main driving force there was love. Everything generated by the Gods was permeated by it and consisted of indestructible harmony. If we consider the symbols of the Slavic Gods separately, it is easy to notice a unique fact.

All images of the Gods can be combined to create groups of new signs. In this case, the power of each element subordinate to God will be summed up. The clear geometry of the symbolism allows you to create ornamental rows.

The sacred semantic load possessed by the symbols of the Slavic Gods and their meaning in the life of their ancestors has only partially survived to this day. From the known data it is clear that the signs served as a kind of center of communication with the patron. By turning to the deity through the symbol, a person tuned in to creation.

Common symbolism of the Slavs

The symbols of the Slavic Gods are divided into personal and elemental. Some are addressed specifically to God, others - to the elements that he commands.

The collected symbols of the Slavic Gods and their meaning differed slightly among different nationalities. The transcripts below describe the most characteristic features of the signs, which have the same meaning among all Slavic peoples.

Lelnik

Lelnik was considered a symbol worn by children and young girls. The decoding of the name means “cherished,” that is, nurtured in love. The patronage of the deity protected growing children; girls were especially favorably treated.

It was believed that Lelnik absorbs the power of sincere deep love and drives away evil spirits and evil thoughts.

Symbol of the Family

The symbol of the Family was especially loved by our ancestors. He personified powerful forces:

  • intergenerational relationships;
  • help of ancestors;
  • Creator of everything that exists;
  • the creative power of creativity.

Worn by representatives of different generations and genders. He has incredible power, enhanced by his respectful attitude towards the family tree. Influences the fate of the owner, giving him clarity of thinking.

Ax of Perun

The traditional male symbol of Perun's ax belongs to personal amulets. Connecting with the energy of the owner, it influences his character and worldview.

Impact on character:

  • fortitude;
  • sobriety of thinking;
  • courage;
  • self-discipline;
  • fortitude.

The ax was one of the types of weapons with which Perun fought against the dark forces.

Veles symbol

The personal symbol of Veles has a schematic drawing of the head of an aurochs. According to one version, the deity turned into this animal. Through the amulet, a person established a connection directly with the deity.

The power of the sign guards justice; it is a protection against lies in any form. It is believed that contracts were concluded on the sign. The owner of the amulet gets the opportunity to feel the hidden meaning.

Seal of Veles

Veles' seals are depicted in the form of two signs - the paws of a wolf and a bear. Both animals were considered sacred, through them they exercised their will in the Explicit World.

By semantic meaning bear paw refers to iconic amulets. It grants the owner good luck in deciding legal affairs, trade. The symbol fuels a person’s inner strength, giving him breadth of thinking.

The wolf's paw amulet is suitable for mystical personalities. His strength embodies the power of Veles over the world of the subtle plane. It is in his power to protect a person engaged in spiritual practices from mental attacks.

Lada Star

The traditional female protective symbol was the star of Lada, the patroness of love and family. Personalization of the Goddess through the sign protects the life and home of the owner.

The meaning of the amulet has a wide range:

  • honor;
  • faith;
  • justice;
  • love of freedom.

This is a guide to the source of generational wisdom, establishing a relationship with ancestors. He is credited with protecting motherhood because it contains the power of almighty love.

Reza Dazhdbog

The solar sign Dazhdbog carries within itself the unshakable power of the deity. It contains the energies of fertility, rebirth and sunlight.

Under his patronage:

  • weddings;
  • wealth;
  • military courage;
  • spiritual mentoring.

He is a powerful protection and guide for those who find themselves in difficult life situations.

Reza Chura

The strong sacred sign Chur refers to personal amulets. He has the power to establish powerful protection from otherworldly forces. The spirits of nature living next to man obeyed God Chur. Under the protection of the deity, the owner does not have to fear the machinations of opposing forces.

Mokosh sign

The Makosh amulet is intended for women who are wise in life. It is a powerful conductor of fertility energy. Through symbolism, the Goddess guides her children, helping them find inner peace and wisdom.

The image of the symbol bears two main geometric shapes - a cross and a rhombus. The first is a conductor of solar energy, the second is the personification of the earthly principle. By uniting, they form a sown field - fertility and prosperity.

Reza Belobog

Consisting of broken lines, the harmonious symbol of Belobog forms a bizarre labyrinth. Its features contain knowledge of the complex structure of the Universe. Refers to personal symbols; conductor of pure energy of love and light.

Wishes are encrypted in it:

  • well-being;
  • clarity of thought;
  • good;
  • purity of thoughts.

Reuniting with the owner, the sign leads inner world in agreement with the thoughts and aspirations of man. Thanks to the amulet, the wearer gains the ability to soberly weigh the facts and find the right solutions.

Kolyadnik or Reza Kolyada

The Amazing Caroler is the personification of the power of rebirth. This is the eternal desire of the Universe to renew and recreate life. The solstice depicted on the sign is in perpetual motion, the so-called “salting” direction.

Symbolism of the ancient Slavs memory from the depths of time

The first discovered finds bearing Slavic signs date back to the 1st millennium BC. e. The ancestors of the Slavic people are recognized as the Penkov, Prague-Korchak and Kolochin cultures. The discovered household and religious objects are covered with the symbolism of the ancient Slavs, the meaning of which has remained virtually unchanged to this day.

Slavic signs - early archaeological finds

In the works of Soviet and Russian archaeologists, the first Slavic signs are attributed to the period from the 1st millennium BC. e. until the 6th century.

These include graphic images:

  • carved on stone sculptures;
  • covering clay and wooden utensils;
  • embossed on leather or jewelry.

Clay vessel. Pozdnyakovskaya culture

These are mainly primitive drawings depicting wavy lines, dots and semicircles. Gradually these images transform and become more complex. At the turn of the 6th century, the first examples of clear solar symbolism appeared. The found clay vessel of the Late Dnyakov culture (mid-2nd millennium BC) is covered with images of a fern flower and wavy lines.

Proto-Slavic and pre-Slavic cultures

The early ancestral cultures include Penkovo, Prague-Korchak and Kolochin. They existed during the 5th-6th centuries and left a large number of reminders of those civilizations. Historian-archaeologist V.V. Sedov assumed that during this period the list of popular symbols was finally formed.

Found in southern basin Pripyat and the upper reaches of the Dniester, Slavic signs and their meaning repeat elements of ornaments and fragments of images from other areas.

Among the discovered finds of the 5th-10th centuries there are graphic symbols:

  • solar;
  • elements of earth cult;
  • stylistic images of animals;
  • cult symbols of deities.

There is reason to believe that this historical period reflects the origins of the formation of a unified Slavic symbolism.

Pagan symbolism of the Slavs - Kyiv culture

Cultural monuments of the Kyiv type date back to the end of the 2nd-4th centuries. Most of the finds were discovered in the Middle Dnieper, Seim, Desna and Dnieper. Kievan culture echoes the strata of the Baltic and northern tribes.

Among the utensils, jewelry and megalithic finds, Slavic symbolism was discovered that was repeated in other regions. The main feature of this period was the production of amulets as a separate line of craft. Precious metals were used that were not found in earlier finds.

V.V. Sedov assumed that during this period active trade relations were established with neighboring tribes. What influenced the development of pottery and blacksmithing. Judging by numerous finds, Slavic signs and their meaning were influenced from outside. Elements borrowed from the Romano-Germanic peoples appeared. Black Sun and Valkyrie came into use.

Interpretation of symbols

Archaeologist G.S. Lebedev assumed that Slavic signs reflected a unique understanding of the laws of the surrounding world of our ancestors. Each symbol carries several meanings that have one semantic root.

Alatyr

The image called Alatyr is widespread in folk crafts. This symbolism of the Slavs occupied a cult place, since it belonged to sacred signs.

This is evidenced by the list of its interpretations:

  • center of the universe;
  • the unity of the four elements;
  • unity of the world;
  • primordial fire.

The first finds of this sign date back to the 10th century, discovered at the Trinity excavation site in Novgorod.

Triglav

Triglav, a symbol of the trinity of the divine principle, is found on stone and clay products of the 2nd century BC. e. It has been repeatedly recorded as part of the decoration of religious buildings and stone sculptures of different cultural periods.

Cres

Kres - symbolism of the ancient Slavs found in the Caucasus of the 6th-10th centuries BC. e. included complex images. Among them, on bronze items there were imprints of an image recognized as Cres - symbols of purification and fire. The drawing included a number of elements that were deciphered only in 1982 and the name could be identified.

Crean

The pagan symbolism of the Slavs had a lot of unique images that belong to pre-Slavic cultures. One of these is Krin, a symbol of new life, a sprout that has hatched.

Tree of Life

A symbol common in different eras. Complements the cosmogonic ancient Slavic signs, rooted in Aryan culture. It was brought by nomadic tribes, as evidenced by the finds of Smolensk-Polotsk long mounds.

Flower of Life

The plant symbolism of the Slavs and their meaning is inextricably linked with rebirth and the eternal cycle of life. Images of the Flower of Life have been found on numerous finds of household items. different eras. Archaeologist P.K. Semenov suggested that the image came from the Aryan culture along with settlers.

Deer images

The pagan symbolism of the Slavs is closely connected with fishing. Images of animals and people in the process of hunting were found on petroglyphs throughout Russia, Belarus, and some regions of the Caucasus. The Deer symbol dates back to the early Slavic civilizations, apparently depicting the remains of glacial fauna. Scythian culture is especially rich in images of deer - apparently this animal was the main totem of the people of that time.

Tour

The animalistic symbolism of the Slavs and their meaning belong to sacred cults that preceded a single pantheon. The symbol of Tur is found on cult stones and rock images. T.N. Grekov put forward the theory that our ancestors tried to borrow the strength and power of the animal.

Indrik beast

Ancient Slavic signs were supplemented not only by real animals, but also by mythical fauna. The symbol Indrik the beast adorned the walls of Radagost according to the testimony of Thietmar of Merseburg. Images of indrik carved on wooden facings were found by P. A. Vavilov at an excavation site near the village. Kanevo, Vologda region.

Swastika symbols of the Slavs and their meaning

Slavic solar symbols are built according to the laws of universal harmony and sacred geometry. Each bend or curl is subject to the law of equilibrium and balance. Through these schematic images, our Ancestors turned not only to the power of the luminary itself, but also to the energy of creation.

Heavenly fire

In the minds of the ancients, the Manifest World was created by a powerful life force. Directing this energy with the power of creative thought, the mighty Rod recreated everything that exists. In this act, incredible amounts of energy were involved, which had visible forms of heavenly fire.

That is why for the Slavs, swastika symbols played a leading role in culture. Their images were an integral part of the cultural and everyday life. The most important meaning of the solar sign is living embodiment divine love to everything that exists.

Swastika symbols and sacred geometry

From a geometric point of view, the swastika symbols of the Slavs share similar features:

  • cross;
  • starting point;
  • sphere or hemisphere.

The direction of movement of the sign determines the flow of energy through the lines. Continuous rotation draws particles of life force into the center of the symbol. Thus, any solar image is a powerful battery.

Experts recommend taking into account the activity of blood movement in the human body when choosing a sign. For women it is left-sided, for men it is right-sided. However, it is worth paying attention to personal characteristics, as well as the meaning of the symbol that has come down to us.

Unique swastika symbolism

The Slavic solar symbols known to us form an arcade of many signs. And this multitude is no coincidence. It is unique combination stability and contradiction. The main interpretation of multidirectionality is the departure of the obsolete, the re-creation of the new. The symbol of rebirth formed the basis for the description of each solar image. By taking on one of the amulets, a person agrees to be included in the process of good changes and renewal.

Svarozhich

Svarozhich heads the Slavic solar symbols, one of the strongest protective signs. He is the embodiment of the heavenly power of Svarog. The visual labyrinth system builds an insurmountable defense against spiritual degradation, protection of the soul.

Rodimich

Not inferior in importance to Svarozhich. Rodimich also crowns swastika symbols and embodies the power of the Family. It protects the ancestral memory and carries a powerful charge of the creative energy of creation. Symbol of continuity of generations.

fern flower

The embodiment of spiritual purity, vitality and regeneration. Suitable for people engaged in spiritual practices, as it builds reliable protection against otherworldly interference. The Fern Flower has the power to bring out the hidden.

Overcome-grass

The overpowering grass is an incredibly powerful symbol of protection from illnesses. The purification process takes place on the physical and all levels of spiritual existence. Purifies a person’s thoughts, tuning him to goodness and harmony.

Molvinets

Complements the swastika symbols of the Slavs, addressed to Rod. Molvinets embodies the ideas of spiritual growth, the inner “burning” of the spirit. Protects from slander and negative thoughts. Protects family ties from curses.

Radinets

Active protective sign. It is based on images of meridians - celestial arrows. Protects babies from evil, often depicted on cradles. Radinets is filled with the power of joy and peace.

Wedding party

The ornate sign promises protection to all newlyweds. The wedding person attracts good luck and happy occasions. Aimed at the successful implementation of the desire to create a family home.

Doukhobor

Doukhobor is an important symbol for leaders and spiritual practitioners. Strengthens the spirit and restores connection with the soul. Protects inner harmony and the agreement of the true “I” with the world.

Beacon

A unique sign with a double direction. The lamp models the movement of energies in the universe. Its essence is the reunification of the earthly and spiritual. Divine embodiment of love.

Svitovit

Svitovit is a transforming symbol that brings the energy of renewal to the owner. Resonates with the essence of the owner, revealing his inner potential. Symbol of defenders of truth and justice.

Znich

The embodiment of the heavenly fire deity. Guardian of the universal fire. It contains a vortex of vitality. Znich provides protection from destruction and internal discord.

Novorodnik

The epitome of balance and movement. Novorodnik bestows inner peace, acceptance of a person’s true “I”. Directs the owner’s aspirations to knowledge of true laws.

Godman

The Godman is the quintessence of the patronage of all the light Gods. An energetically rich depiction of the kinship and opposition of the four fundamental elements of life.

Rodovik

The ancestor redirects the collected heritage of previous generations into one powerful stream. Connects the owner to this current. The result of this process is a clear awareness of one’s purpose and the choice of the right path.

Thunderstorm

Image of celestial electricity. Has a direction of salting, protects against lightning. Carries the meaning of the will of the gods. Depicted on the doors of dwellings and temple complexes.

Gromovnik

The direction of the sign is left-handed. Grants the owner the protection of Indra. Meaning: heavenly wisdom, longevity and the weapon of a true warrior of the spirit. They were applied to the entrance portals of storage facilities. It was believed that the Thunderer struck those who entered with evil thoughts.

Valkyrie

Symbols of defenders of the fatherland. Valkyrie recreates a single chain with relatives who defended their homeland. Increases the spiritual potential of the owner. Carries the meaning of "peaceful warrior".

Swati

Recreates the picture of Perunov's path. Embodies a graphic representation of the structure of the solar system. Aimed at creative people on spiritual quests.

Vaiga

Complements the swastika symbols of the Slavs with contradictory (bipolar) meanings. It bears the seal of the goddess Tara, who protected the four spiritual paths of man. Helps you search for your true purpose, your ancestral program. At the same time, sharply curved lines embody the four great winds, opposed to the spiritual quest.

Velesovik

Recreates a harmonious relationship with nature. Gives strength to join the world around us, to find a reflection of ourselves in it.

Vseslavets

A powerful symbol of protecting balance, reunification. Unites all genera, allows you to connect to a common karmic network. Appeal to the spiritual flame passed on from generation to generation.

Ognevitsa

Female solar symbol. Represents the protection of heavenly mothers. Through it, appealing to any of the Goddesses receives the power of an increasing impulse. Protects motherhood, the bonds between parents and children.

Slavets

The symbol combines two geometric designs - a cross and a lightning bolt. It is considered a female sign of protection of reproductive capabilities. Special significance had for young girls, protecting their fate from damage and the evil eye.

Garuda

Personification of God Vyshenya in a sign. Embodies protection from decline and lack of money. Attracts the beneficial energies of creation, wealth and balance.

Duniya

The task of the symbol is to preserve the paths of the true search for the meaning of life. Reunion of heavenly and earthly fire.

Sky Boar

Included in the swastika symbols of the Slavs. The personification of the meeting of the future and the past. Protects the spiritual self-improvement of the owner, gives him perseverance in achieving goals.

Spiritual swastika

A symbol of immaterial fire that embodies the thoughts of the Family. This is the pure energy of universal love, captured in lines.

Soul swastika

Connects to the energy of the spirit. Regulates the conscious life of the earthly incarnation. Has power over the lines of a person’s destiny, responding to his intentions.

Spiritual Power

Spiritual power helps you feel the connection between the mind and the subtle plane. Adjusts the instinct to subconsciously choose the right path.

Dhata

The image of a person in both forms - material and spiritual. Helps to manifest God-given capabilities and pacifies negative character traits.

Colard

A feminine symbol that can be worn by men. Its main meaning is fertility, bestowed by Mother Raw Earth. A gift from the origins of life that brings prosperity to the owner.

Solard

Symbol of reverse retribution. Strengthens any action, allowing you to quickly feel the results. This is an energy boomerang that allows you to receive the fruits of your honestly earned money on time.

Source

The embodiment of the original nature of the soul. Represents the palaces of Zhiva, from which the creative energy of creation emanates.

Kolohort

Equilibrium symbol of the order of the Universe. Light and dark beginnings in the eternal dance of true harmony. A person on the path of spiritual search reveals all visible and hidden paths of development. The choice of path determines what energy the sign will use.

Navnik

The embodiment of the connection between two parallel worlds - Navi and Yavi. Grants access to the unique capabilities of a person in the spiritual sphere. Protects against otherworldly interference.

Narayana

Unites the spiritual and physical energy of a person. A symbol of the connection between pure light and the material world. Strengthens the impulse of aspiration, allowing you to see your goals more clearly.

Solar cross

The embodiment of the forces of Yaril - the summer sun. Enhances human health and power. Strengthens the connection between spirit and soul. Patronizes warriors. Male symbol.

Heavenly cross

Universal symbol suitable for representatives both sexes. Depicts the eternal power of rebirth. Protection given to spiritual search, ancestral ties.

Fireman

Another symbolism of the Family. Often depicted on his idols. An insurmountable barrier from evil influence on family ties, support of the ancients.

Yarovik

Male symbolism of fertility. Fullness of life, fire of eternal flame. It was considered a protective sign against diseases for livestock, maintaining profits in the house. It was painted on stables and cowsheds, and on messenger posts.

Rubezhnik

Sign of fortitude, male symbol. Aimed at protection from unclean creatures, allows you to develop both sides of the essence. Gives stability to the psyche, connecting a person’s internal reserves.

Rysich

Symbolism of the unity of the entire Slavic race. A conductor of the powerful creative energy of creation. Grants protection to the entire nation. Revives the desire to know roots and heritage.

Solon

Household symbolism that protects home life and wealth from external interference. Endowed with the power to increase material heritage. Universal sign.

Yarovrat

Incarnation of Yaro-God. Male symbol of fertility, rebirth and life after death. Symbolism was painted on barns to protect the seed from damage. Bestows fertility and abundant harvest.

Sadhana

Symbols of Slavic palaces

The Svarog circle is united by 16 signs, each of which is under the protection of a specific deity. The semantic load carries concepts about the structure of all layers of the world. Each image has unique features that influence the fate and character of the owner.

The meaning of the symbolism of the palace for a person

At birth, a person is given the opportunity to enlist the support of the gods. You can contact your protector through the symbols of the palaces. The sign is a conductor of the petitioner’s will and a channel of energy transmission. Since each symbol has its own characteristics, unique changes will occur in a person's life and character. Amulets allow you to acquire protection and direct the energy and efforts of the owner to achieve harmony with his life task.

Under the protection of the gods

The symbols of Slavic palaces are endowed with unique features. Their meaning makes adjustments to the characteristics of the wearer, depending on the patron deity.

Virgo

It is under the care of the goddess Jiva. Conductor of renewal energy.

The owner is endowed with the following qualities:

  • independence;
  • stubbornness;
  • purposefulness.

All these qualities are manifested thanks to the transmitted energy of youth and love for life.

Boar

The sign comes under the auspices of Rakhmat, the deity of the Heavenly Court, Universal justice and law and order.

Gives character traits:

  • desire for purity of thoughts;
  • clarity of consciousness;
  • balance.

Owners of the sign are determined, but not reckless.

Pike

Those born in this sign were lucky enough to become the beloved children of Rozhana, who is responsible for family comfort and prosperity.

People of this symbol are characterized by:

  • calm;
  • equilibrium;
  • desire for peace.

It is difficult for owners of the sign to leave their comfort zone. However, they adapt well to change.

Swan

The Great Heavenly Mother of God Mokosh leads the destinies of people born in the sign of the Swan.

Symbol bearers are characterized by:

  • caring for one's neighbor;
  • joyfulness;
  • abundance;
  • well-being.

He bestows the gift of clairvoyance on women who have reached their prime.

Snake

The sign is subject to the keeper of the Heavenly Fire, Semargl. The symbols of Slavic palaces associated with the fire element have the strongest influence on the owner.

Those related to the amulet have:

  • a clear, sober mind;
  • perfect internal balance;
  • hot temper;
  • ambition.

The sign provides support during difficult periods.

Crow

The sign is in the jurisdiction of Kolyada. The patron of change and the paths of human destinies endows the owner of the symbol with:

  • good nature;
  • sense of humor;
  • deep wisdom.

The bearers of the amulet have an amorous and open character.

Bear

One of the main symbols belongs to Svarog.

Those born in the hall have:

  • fortitude;
  • justice;
  • boundless kindness.

Owners of the amulet strive to achieve a strong position through creative work. Their quality is to destroy life barriers on the path to the chosen goal.

Busl

Ancient hall symbols always refer to the strength of connections with ancestors. The Stork's palace comes under the patronage of Rod. It especially strongly bonds with past generations.

The owner is given the following traits:

  • flair;
  • ability to navigate in life situations;
  • developed sense of duty;
  • desire to create a family.

Bearers of the amulet receive a blessing for the birth of healthy and full-fledged offspring.

Wolf

The symbolism belongs to Veles, the guardian of the Gates of Interworlds. Supports defenders of the family and fatherland.

The characteristic qualities of the carrier are:

  • success in trading affairs;
  • thirst for knowledge;
  • wealth and prosperity.

Holders of the symbol know how to build strong communications.

Fox

The wise earth goddess Marena sends a blessing to the bearers of the sign.

The owner of the amulet is granted:

  • flexibility of mind;
  • cunning;
  • curiosity.

By enlisting the support of the goddess, a person achieves success in business and shows ingenuity.

Tour

The sign is supervised by the god Roof. God has two hypostases - a warrior and a reaper.

Strengthens the following qualities in his ward:

  • hard work;
  • the ability to listen to yourself;
  • a sense of true purpose in life.

God helps his child gain confidence and stability in personal interests.

Elk

Mother Lada patronizes the lives of those born in the sign.

Thanks to her supervision, a person gains:

  • honesty;
  • strong desire for justice;
  • Love;
  • mutual understanding with others and yourself.

People of this sign are dedicated to their work and find joy in serving society.

Finist

The god of light worlds, Navi Vyshen, takes care of the bearers of the symbol.

The sign helps the owner to gain:

  • persistence in the fight against dark forces;
  • sincerity;
  • clear vision.

It protects the wearer from slander and the evil eye.

Horse

The Kupala amulet complements the symbols of the palaces, providing the wearer with protection from illness.

The qualities of the owner of the mark are:

  • purity of soul;
  • body strength;
  • a heart free from false feelings.

Being under the auspices of Kupala, a person receives a deep inner impulse for renewal.

Eagle

Perun patronizes warriors and defenders of the peace of the fatherland.

The owner of the symbol is endowed with the following properties:

  • steadfastness;
  • internal balance;
  • determination.

Owners of the sign act without doubt and always find the right solution.

Ras

The Guardian of the great universal Wisdom Dazhdbog blesses those born in his sign.

They are given the following qualities:

  • prudence;
  • foresight;
  • ability to make plans.

Owners of the symbol radiate inner light and confidence. They know how to unite people around them, leading them to true goals.

Slavic symbols and Runes

Slavic symbols and runes cause heated debate among the scientific community. Since the facts that have reached us are fragmentary, the very existence of writing is called into question. However, there is evidence that rune symbols played a ritual role and were of a communication nature. The signs of the Slavic runes allowed tribes to conduct business and transmit information. The found symbols of ancient runes are known for their sacred meaning.

Runic symbolism of the Slavs

The Slavic peoples had developed communication, which for foreigners created the impression of a single nationality. Despite the uniqueness of each tribal union, the runic symbolism of the Slavs made it possible to transmit information in an accessible form.

There is evidence that the symbols of ancient runes had two purposes:

  • writing;
  • divination.

The German chronicler Thietmar of Merseburg, who studied monuments of Slavic religious culture, described that in Radogost the name of a god or goddess was inscribed on each idol. Despite the fact that those who came to give praise were from different tribes, they read and understood these inscriptions in the same way.

This suggests that the runic symbols come from a single source, which gave rise to all cultural branches of the Slavs. The remaining decoding of Slavic symbols and runes relates to their religious significance. The fact that this information reached contemporaries in a relatively complete form speaks of the special place that the signs of Slavic runes occupied in the cultural life of our ancestors.

Symbols of ancient Runes

Known rune symbols include 18 signs. Some of them bear the names of gods. The meaning and interpretation depends on who the mark is dedicated to.

The runic symbolism of the Slavs, used for fortune telling, has a unique set of meanings. Each transcript embodies the originality of the worldview of our ancestors.

World- He is also called Belobog. The embodiment of the World Tree, a sign of prosperity, order and prosperity.

Chernobog- chaos, destructive force, bringing change.

Alatyr- the embodiment of balance and harmony, the starting point of the World.

Rainbow- the sign symbolizes movement, path. The rune means a spiritual or physical journey, followed by internal development.

Need― personification of Viy, means the destined outcome of the current action or event. Everything that happens is in the power of higher powers, does not depend on the will of the fortuneteller.

Steal- stability financial situation, revival after a long period of stagnation or complete ruin. Symbol rising forces bringing prosperity to any area of ​​life.

Strength― spiritual cleansing energy, Spirit of the Warrior. Uniting purpose and aspiration.

Treba- a symbol of the edge of the sword, masculinity and victory. The power of perseverance and faith in victory, supported by the spiritual protection of the gods.

Wind― personification of spirits and the elements of air, a path indicator. It means directing willpower towards goals that will lead to the integrity and successful outcome of the enterprise.

Bereginya― a symbol of protection from negative influences. Powerful spiritual protection, support of ancestors. Provided an insurmountable defense against the evil eye.

Oud- the second interpretation of the name Yarilo. The embodiment of the power of love, the energy of passion. Represents a powerful creative principle.

Lelya― the potential for creativity, the rune of imagination, the power of intuition. Indicates a smooth change in direction.

Rock- closed possibilities, inevitability of what is happening. A pre-planned scenario whose course cannot be changed.

Support- rune of luck, help from higher powers. The key meaning is the message from the ancestors, their support.

Dazhdbog- the symbol has a double meaning. A test that brings purification. Support of the divine patron.

Perun- intervention of powerful forces, a person endowed with power.

Eatmaterial abundance obtained by following one's purpose. A reward for long and persistent efforts.

Source- stop, calm before a favorable period. Hidden deep growth, stagnation phase.

Slavic symbols in embroidery, their meaning and patterns

Slavic symbols in embroidery were used to create a talisman for the body and spirit of the owner. Techniques for applying cult images include satin stitch and cross stitch techniques. Geometric symbols were formed into ornaments, the meaning of Slavic symbols in embroidery formed a message to higher powers.

Cult signs in everyday life

Even before the formation of writing, signs and symbols served for our ancestors as a means of transmitting and storing information. Religious signs were applied to household items and clothing. The set of images and the nature of their application determined the nationality of a person and his social status.

The signaling system was most clearly expressed by Slavic symbols in embroidery. It covered both outer clothing and lower layers. Each type of decoration had its own set of drawings and signs. There were unwritten rules according to which images were subject to a clear structure for inclusion in the composition.

Rules for forming an ornament

The signs used in embroidery were not made separately. Each element was part of a complex ornament. By the nature of the arrangement of the picture, one could read the encrypted meaning. The meaning of Slavic symbols in embroidery determined the group of symbols that could be included in a single design.

Female and male signs were never combined. They were diluted with a pattern with a neutral meaning.

For example, the symbolism of abundance, birds of paradise, always coexists with earthly signs of fertility.

Slavic ornaments have geometrically correct patterns and balance in every detail. Protruding parts do not break the composition; they are complemented by balancing elements.

Women's and men's symbols

The difference in female and male symbolism lies not only in the set of symbols. Solar signs and elements of nature are introduced depending on the nature of the meaning.

Thus, the right-sided Kolovrat was depicted only on mature men; the left-sided one could be present in women’s ornaments. The signs were distributed according to age criteria, for example:

  • Bereginya with her hands down is a symbol of a young maiden;
  • folded on the sides - a married mature woman;
  • hands raised - an elderly person.

Plant themes were also differentiated according to gender and age criteria:

  • rose, lily, viburnum - female drawing;
  • oak, cornflower, Chernobrovtsy - male signs;
  • hops - youthful ornament;
  • poppy is a maiden sign.

Men's ornaments were more symmetrical and clear. Fluid, smooth lines predominated in women's patterns.

Reading the embroidery pattern of Slavic symbols

The embroidery patterns of Slavic symbols reconstructed by folk craftsmen have undergone virtually no changes. To read an encrypted message, it is enough to know both the individual values ​​and their group meaning. By the type of images used, one could find out where a person lived and what position he occupied in the tribal union.

Among the inhabitants of mountainous areas, broken angular lines predominated in embroidery. Wavy ones in combination with ovals were found among residents of water areas of reservoirs. The higher the status of a person in the community, the more densely the outfit is covered with patterns.

Boys and girls had embroidered edges on their shirts and underwear. Married women had several fields on their shirts from shoulder to wrist.

The solar symbol of the swastika was found in the southern and central regions of the Slavic peoples. Among the northern tribes, animalistic patterns often predominated.

Rules for embroidering Slavic patterns

In order to maintain a clear sequence of alternating fragments, a corner part is selected to begin work. From this point the space is divided into squares. Embroidery patterns of Slavic symbols are formed based on who will wear the product.

The edge fields were filled in first. Then they placed above it large parts pattern. Various additions were made last. The course of the pattern always had a direction towards the feminine or masculine side.

The culture of all the peoples of the world developed in its own individual direction and had its own special path of formation. At the same time, in the monuments of the past that have survived to this day, one can easily discern common motifs that are simultaneously characteristic of all countries, nationalities and peoples of the world.

How to explain such amazing fact? If you delve closely into the history of art of each individual nation, you can trace a smooth transition from a primitive, untransformed consciousness, endowed with the simplest forms and images, to a more complex, highly artistic and sophisticated perception of reality.

The most compelling evidence of the commonality of cultures is the ornamental symbols that are present in the paintings of all modern peoples in the form of centuries-old, traditionally established artistic forms. If we analyze the elements of ancient ornaments, much will become clear in the way of thinking of the ancients, and the vector of development of global consciousness will come together.

First of all, it is worth noting that all folklore motifs were based on a mythological worldview. They are characterized by simplicity of lines, clarity of forms and stability of repeating elements, the main ones of which are still present in the traditional ornaments of all peoples. Here are the most common and famous of them:



1. Symbolism of the feminine and masculine principles. In almost all cultures there are opposite images of Women and Men (in the abstract meaning of these forms). Most famous ornaments, one way or another, contain these forms in their composition as an integral attribute. For example, the simplest form in our opinion (X) is the basis of the symbol Masculine, and the opposite (+) symbolizes the Feminine principle. There are also combined symbols that combine both of these forms. The listed symbols are only the basic basis for drawing an ornament; they are supplemented and developed by numerous other elements.


Rosicrucian symbol. It signifies the atoning power of the blood of Christ and also represents the triumph of the spirit, the cycle of death and rebirth. In some interpretations it also symbolizes the union of the male and female divine principles. The Rosicrucians practiced black magic, cabalism and alchemy starting in the 17th century.


In the center of the embroidery is a symbol of the union of two clans, known as the Wedding Man. The merging of the masculine and feminine principles into one common force, unity and common destiny.

Traditional ancient Slavic solar symbols complement the action of the Wedding Party. Colard and Solard, solar crosses, were traditionally embroidered on the clothes of newlyweds.


Seal of Solomon, or Star of David

This is the famous magical seal of Solomon, or the Star of David. The upper triangle in her image is white, and the lower one is black. It symbolizes, first of all, the absolute law of analogy, expressed by the mystical formula: “What is below is similar to what is above.”

The Seal of Solomon is also a symbol of human evolution: one must learn not only to take, but also to give, absorb and radiate at the same time, radiate for the Earth, perceive from Heaven. We receive and are fulfilled only when we give to others. This is the perfect union of spirit and matter in man - the union of the solar plexus and the brain.

2. Symbolism of Earth and Sky. Also, two clearly opposite concepts can act either in opposition to each other or together, creating a symbol of idyll and harmony (the symbol of the Earth is an inverted equilateral triangle, the symbol of Heaven is a circle with intersecting lines enclosed in it).


In Buddhism, as well as in Japanese burials, you can also find statues consisting of these figures. At the base there is a square, then there is a circle, after that there is a triangle. The square is a symbol of the earth, and the circle is a symbol of the sky. The whole figure symbolizes man and denotes the connection between heaven and earth.

3. Symbolism of the Sun. At the dawn of the development of the arts, ideas about the world were far from those of today, there was no faith in a single God, and the cult of numerous pagan gods was welcomed. One of the most revered is the god Ra in Egyptian mythology (aka Yarila among the Slavs, Helios among the ancient Greeks, Tonatiuh among the Mayans and Aztecs, the sun goddess Amaterasu in Japan, etc.). It is quite understandable that the only correct symbolism of the Sun can be a circle, represented by each nation in its own interpretation.


Solar symbolism is the symbolism of the solar element, the sun, and the light gods.

Variants of the image of the solar disk


Indo-Aryan symbols among the Saltovites



This is the Solar symbol. Russian name swastikas - “Kolovrat”, i.e. “solstice” (“kolo” is the Old Russian name for the sun, “vrat” is rotation, return). Kolovrat symbolized the victory of light (sun) over darkness, life over death, reality over reality.

4. Symbolism of movement and space. Depicted in ornaments in the form of a broken line. Moreover, what exactly the artist wanted to say largely depends on its direction and method of drawing. Thus, a smooth wavy line clearly means a positive direction - fertility, abundance, wealth, longevity, well-being in all its manifestations. A curve consisting of sharp lines speaks of repulsion, moving backward, breaking.


Swastika in the Star of England. The swastika is a symbol of the eternal circulation of the Universe; it symbolizes the Highest Heavenly Law, to which all things are subject. This Fire sign was used as a talisman that protected the existing Heavenly Law and order. Life itself curtained them from inviolability.


The circular mandala is associated with the natural cycles of the year. One of its axis was formed by the spring and autumn equinoxes, and the other by the summer and winter solstices. It is a universal symbol across cultures for the perception of space, time and direction.


Triquerta is a symbol-amulet, a symbol of movement.


The cross is a symbol of Unity and the key to Unity. A sign of the merger of the four cardinal directions - north, west, east and south. Each line of the cross is essentially a space-time spiral, which continuously generates two main flows of the Universe, as well as all its dimensions and levels.


This is just a small number of basic ornamental symbols that are common to all cultures at the same time. Ornaments made with their help can be complemented by other, less significant elements, creating a single harmonious composition, which, in addition to artistry, is endowed with a certain deepest meaning.

Knowledge is most often hidden in symbols, images, numbers, notes, letters, patterns. Speech, song, rituals, embroidery, carving are woven from signs and images. Not everyone can know their deeper meaning, but the feeling of harmony, proportion and beauty through creativity is the right steps towards the truth. And anyone can master this.

Solar embroidery, "Deer with the tree of life", - Nevreva Klavdiya Petrovna

Symbolism is a legacy of human history, when people began to express their thoughts, their perception of the world through conventional signs. The study of ancient cult symbolism reveals spiritual world human societies in the preliterate era. Similar cult symbols and ornamental motifs are widespread. Quite often similar or even identical elements are found among related and unrelated peoples.

Mass migrations of people contributed to the spread of ideas and experience. But sometimes a small tribe of aliens transmitted rich information to the population. Therefore, the migration of spiritual cultural phenomena: language, myths, rituals, religion occurred on a larger scale than the migration of people. It is difficult to trace the history of symbolism. Is this because the images were made from non-durable materials? bark, leather, wood, clay. Most examples of ancient symbolism have come to us from 2-1 thousand BC. e., when there was already a shift away from the use of symbols and they began to be used as an ornament or as sacred signs fixed by custom.

Ancient symbolism is a layering of motifs dating back to different eras, and an interweaving of plots of various ethnocultural origins. It is difficult to establish the chronological sequence and geographical routes of their distribution. And yet, in the exhibits and traditions that have reached us, along with the general picture of the world, there are their own original shades. There are great similarities in the patterns of the East Slavic and Finno-Ugric peoples.

Symbols, signs, ornaments - an amazing book about the life and beliefs of our distant ancestors, the pages of which are mostly lost. And, apparently, what was left was what should have remained, what is eternal.

Ornament is the language of thousands of years; it is older than all works of art. Academician B.A. Rybakov said this about it: “Looking at intricate patterns, we rarely think about their symbolism, we rarely look for meaning. It often seems to us that there is no more thoughtless, light and meaningless area of ​​art than ornament. Meanwhile, in the folk ornament, as in ancient writings, the thousand-year wisdom of the people, the beginnings of their worldview and the first attempts of man to influence the mysterious forces of nature were deposited.”

Our material world is currently decorated with both plant and plot ornaments, but the most ancient ornament is geometric.

Rosettes of various types are a favorite ornament in architectural decoration and applied art. The disk served to designate the sun in the ancient civilizations of Egypt, Asia Minor, and Mesopotamia, although it must be borne in mind that in the Bronze Age, a circle, disk and rosette could mean the sky. B. Rybakov believes that the sign in the form of a six-pointed rosette ^ was the result of a combination of a circle, supposedly symbolizing the sun, and a snowflake pattern, supposedly symbolizing the sky. Both the Slavs and Dagestanis depicted a six-petalled rosette on salt shakers, and salt is a product associated with the sun. The rosette wheel is almost always depicted on a spinning wheel.

The Rig Veda says that the sun “rolls like a wheel.” The sun is compared to a wheel in Slavic, Polish and Lithuanian songs. Such a sign can be found on an old boat, cart, chariot, on anything that moves. All European peoples, having Slavic influence, retain the tradition of lighting wheels on Ivan Kupala and launching them from the mountain into the river as a symbol fading sun from this day forward.

A wheel with teeth and a cross signifies the sky, rain clouds and the sun. In the Rig Veda the sun is called the divine eye, in the mythology of the ancient Greeks the sun was represented as the eye of Zeus, among the ancient Germans - Odin, among the ancient Egyptians the sun and moon were represented by the eyes of Horus, among the Romans - by the eyes of Jupiter. But they are all connected with the concept of “luminary-eye”. In this case, the luminary was designated by a circle with a dot and a small circle inside.

Our ancestors felt two principles in the sun - male and female. Feminine is indicated by a circle, masculine by a square or triangle (which is rare).

Spinning wheels with the image of the Universe - the Earth and the Firmament (“white light”)

Sometimes the sun is depicted using a spiral - the movement of the sun across the sky.

Zigzags and streaks can often be a symbol of heavenly water if there is a cross among them

In Ancient Rus', fire was called Svarozhich, and the sun was called the son of Svarog, that is, fire and the sun had the same epithets. Lights lit during summer and summer festivals winter solstice, symbolize the heavenly fire-sun. This is also confirmed by the fact that there were customs of lighting a wheel at the top of a pole or rolling it down a hill while burning. Ritual fires were lit not only on holidays, but during any disaster in order to appease God, who was embodied in fire and was considered the source of these disasters. In this case, it was necessary that nine different types of wood burn in the ritual fire and that 9 people participate, and the number “9” was associated with the god of the underworld. On These examples show that fire can be the personification of the sun, god, and the underground ruler. The burning of a wheel on a pole is the connection of heaven and earth with fire.

The geometric figures that make up the simplest patterns once carried a great meaning, personifying the forces of nature and being security signs. They decorated all household items, clothes and the house itself.

In diamonds, crosses, squares, and dots, repeatability is observed primarily in certain numbers. Counting and rhythm help to feel and explain the structure of the world. Numbers are elements of a special numerical code with the help of which the whole world and a person can be represented, that is, numbers can be one of the images of the world. These numbers are: 3 - the image of the Absolute, the divine Trinity, three spheres of living space (heaven, earth, underworld), time (past, present, future). The number 4 is an image of integrity, an ideally stable structure: 4 cardinal directions, 4 elements, top-bottom-right-left, 4 seasons. 5 - sacred number - 4 sides + center - balance. The symbol of harmony has become the number 7. Through it, humanity is given 7 colors of the spectrum, 7 notes in music, 7 days in the week. From the product of numbers 3 and 4, the number 12 arises - 12 months, 12 zodiac constellations. Accordingly, all these numbers, and not only in the ornament, are considered lucky.

The number of teeth, diamonds, and crosses was necessarily associated with this series of magic numbers or a multiple of them.

The laws of space, the mutual influence of the elements and their connection with man are also reflected in the ornament. Moreover, more often the elements are depicted in their correct combination: fire - air, earth - water. Earthly images were placed below, heavenly ones above. The laws were also reflected in the observance of color (in embroidery, painting). There were no fictitious and unnatural shades, only the colors of nature, and their arrangement in folk costume corresponded to the trinity of the world (the bottom of the earth is darker, and the higher, the brighter the color).

The cross is often found in Slavic arts and crafts. A straight equal-pointed cross is an image of the sun. The terminal cross is associated with earthly fire, which was represented as a type of heavenly fire. If cross-shaped patterns in the center of a circle and square can also mean the illuminated four cardinal directions, then the swastika 4-6-8-1 2rays is always a sign of the rotating sun. And they still call it a bracelet. Kolovorot is an ancient Slavic sign of the sun. It is considered a talisman against all dark forces. The word “kolo” in Russian means “circle”, “wheel”, “svort” - rotation. The equilateral cross is a sign of justice, goodness, balance. More often it is depicted with tips rotating to the right - this is a sign of active, real justice.

In the design of Russian fairy tales we can often see a symbolic dome - this is a diagram of the sky. Ancestors imagined the sky as a transparent dome, and life underneath it. In domes, as a rule, the letter “ZH”, called in Slavic alphabet“lives” - “life”. The letter is composed of plant weaves, also symbolizing endless life. In the arches you can see scenes from the lives of gods and people, scenes of sacrifices. In the diagram we see Simargl (Semargl).Semargl from the word “seed”. He was depicted as a winged dog guarding crops and seeds. Semargl was also the personification of “armed good,” fiery, always ready to protect peaceful fields. Later, the archaic Simargl began to be called Pereplut. It was associated with the roots of plants and was closely related to the theme of water - mermaids. Under the domes, mermaids were also depicted - winged maidens, at that time they were deities of irrigation of fields, rains or humid morning fogs

Knot weaves are often found in Russian ornaments and the design of capital - red letters. Other peoples depicted the dome of the sky in the form of a circle, with waves or a cross - the sun and rain clouds.

The patterns of the water element are recognizable and varied. The ancient water pattern is geometric; this is a time when people did not know how to draw smooth lines. They especially liked to decorate bowls for water, drinking, wine, and sacrificial bowls with this design. The “running wave” of different inclinations looks rhythmic and especially beautiful. The patterns on the bowls can also be free (Trypillian bowls). The snake theme is also a favorite. The snake among the Slavs is a symbol of the first water, spring, warmth. Seasonal calendars often reflect the image of snakes. Snake means spring, summer, rain. Consider some more examples of water-themed symbolism.

Single, double and triple clouds carrying heavenly moisture were depicted with and without rain. In carvings, such patterns are usually called “heavenly abysses.” What do rain clouds look like? female breast, because rain was considered heavenly milk feeding the earth.

All patterns are dominated by the theme of the fertility of the earth. First of all, these are images of Women in Birth, giving harvests and benefits. The bottom of such an image is usually decorated with a seed or sprout.

The ancient Slavs considered the rhombus to be a universal symbol of fertility and childbearing, i.e. a symbol of the feminine principle in nature, inextricably linked with ideas about the Mother-Progenitor, who was also thought of as Mother Nature. In a geometric pattern, this is embodied in a diamond shape with hooks on the top and bottom tops. Women simply call it “frog” or “diamond frog.”

With the transition of the Nomadic tribes to sedentary life, pens-sheds, fenced with poles, and log houses appeared. The greatest discovery was made - the principle of fourfold time and space was discovered (four cardinal directions, four seasons). Hence, the ancients associated the rhombus with ideas about the cyclical nature of time, when a person was already aware of the beginning and end of a period; He was also aware of the basic principles of the daily movement of the sun - sunrise, zenith, sunset. As in nature, in human life there are successively periods of birth, flourishing, maturity, withering - old age. Generation succeeded generation, just as nature blossomed and died from year to year.

But the cycle that people live through during their “age” was experienced by nature before their eyes several dozen times. Therefore, the ancient farmers saw in nature only a regular repetition. Not change, not disappearance, but repetition was the determining motive of their consciousness and behavior. And this is conveyed in the image of a rhombus with hooks on the tops.

B. Rybakov, who writes: “Ubiquitous bone images of female ancestors ancient man saw covered with a rhombic pattern of natural origin, inherent in the very structure of the tusk from which the sacred figurine was carved.

Because of this, the rhombic pattern united two important concepts in the eyes of the primitive hunter: the mammoth (the source of life, satiety, prosperity) and the sacred image of a woman (a symbol of fertility, continuation of life, account of kinship). The rhombus and the rhombic meander themselves became symbols of vitality and prosperity, the first ideogram of Life and Good in the history of human thought.”

On the other hand, for the farmer, the 4 cardinal directions were associated with the sides of his rectangular dwelling. It is known that in the hut the logs in the log house were stacked with the remainder; this remainder looked like a spear, a fork. The Russians even have a riddle: “On the outside there is a horn, on the inside there is a kamola” (izba). With the laying of the first crown, the space was ordered, its isolation and impenetrability to external, evil forces was ensured, chaos was transformed into space (that is, order). It is noteworthy that even when the hut was cut down without a trace, the first crown, on the ground, was always horned. Apparently, close proximity to the “underworld”, “ house of the dead"demanded security from such a neighborhood, from possible evil "intrigues" of the "inhabitants of the underworld." Moreover, the earth was given the remains of enemies killed in battles during raids, and the ancient Slavs burned their relatives on a funeral pyre. Timber-type burials are also known. From here it is clear why the presented motifs of a rhombus with sides extended at the corners, with a marked middle, called a “rhombus-burdock” (also known as a “small lattice”), symbolized a log house, an enclosed space with a hearth or altar - the habitat of the ancestors.

And a rhombus of a different configuration of three pairs of intersecting lines is a funeral or sacrificial pyre, which was a sign of the sacred rite during the burning - according to ancient people, during this ritual contact with ancestors is established.

A diamond with dots is a sign of a sown field. You can often see crosses at the ends. This is a typical four-part scheme for distributing benefits in 4 directions.

Very often in geometric woven ornaments there is a hand (palm) motif. This motif played a big role in the art of the ancients of many peoples. The palm - the hand - was synonymous with the brush (bundle) of plants, which was relevant for the consciousness of early farmers. From Russian subject embroideries, the female figure is well known, often depicted with enlarged palms and with a head - a radiant rhombus, with solar rosettes in the middle of the figure. Academician B.A. Rybakov associates the weekly holiday of light - Sunday - with the embroidered goddess. This goddess could be only the Great Goddess, and such a title was preserved in Russian folklore for Lada.

Lada was revered as the goddess of marriage, marriage, fun, consolation and all well-being. She, Lada, is still called in many traditional rites, songs are sung, hands on hands or on the table. Apparently, by clapping their palms (palm - Lada) or hitting the table with their palms, the pagans thereby “established” a connection with the deity and asked her for a cheerful, blissful life. And the image of crossed palms on towel patterns are signs this deity.

Snake pattern. Bowls of Trypillian culture

The land, in the sense of a plot that produces a crop, was represented in the form of squares, rectangles, covered with a thick mesh, i.e. sown. Grains were placed between strips of earth and water. The main theme of the Earth, fertility, and childbearing prevails in the Russian pattern. The image of the Earth is a favorite in embroidery.

TREE. The image of a sacred tree is found among all peoples of the world. In one of the Russian fairy tales, the hero climbs a tree to the sky. Siberian shamans placed a tree at a ritual site and performed actions near it. On the Christian holiday of the Ascension of Christ, Russians baked small ladders from dough and imagined that one could ascend to heaven using wood or stairs. The Bible calls the sacred tree the “Tree of Life”, and it is said that it is located “in the middle of the garden”, under the clouds) which means the center of the world. In the hymns of the Rig Veda and Edda, a snake lives between the roots of a tree. The roots of the Tree go into unknown depths, and its top reaches into the sky. The snake is a symbol of time, spiral movement and repetition, wisdom and caution, and it all starts from the roots of a person, a nation, humanity. Therefore, you can find an image of a Tree entwined with a Serpent.

The world tree was thought to be the embodiment of the Great Mother of the world - the Earth. The tree is associated with the motive of determining the destinies of people. In the Rig Veda, the World Tree was compared to a woman giving birth. Among the peoples of the world, the Tree in the form of a woman appears to be serpentine-legged and elongated. Among the Slavs and Latvians, at religious holidays, the maiden stood on one leg - this is the pose of the embodiment of the Mother of the world - the Tree, holding the whole world. In India, standing on one leg expresses the idea of ​​fertility. In Rus', the birch became the tree of the goddess. In the spring, girls bring gifts to birch trees, tell fortunes on them, dress one of the girls with birch branches, a wreath and dedicate songs to Lada, Lelya, asking for love and marriage, childbirth. In ancient times, if a child was punished, it was always with a birch rod, as a ritual of sacrifice for sins, so that Mother Fate would not become angry.

Abyss of heaven (rain clouds)

In the most ancient dwellings of the Slavs there was always a tree-pillar holding up the roof. The tree-pillar symbolized a woman; the ancients always believed that a house, a dwelling rests on a woman. The pillar supports the roof of the house, like the world tree supports the firmament. The world tree is the support of the universe, a pillar supporting the sky.

Plant motifs predominate in wooden carvings and embroidery of the South Slavs. Endless sprouts of sacred herbs and flowers are shown in the process of germination and flowering. Sprouts are depicted, as a rule, as strong, strong, and are guarded either by a lion or by a bird of Syria, since only they are trusted to guard the infinity of life. Is the plant world an image of Reveal, manifested life, sprouts and flowers? symbol of earthly life. The images of plants are different, it depends on which plants are considered pure and sacred in a given area. In the south - rose, periwinkle, in the middle zone - cornflower, fern, in the north - coniferous branches, bathing suit.

Labyrinths and spirals. Meander-spiral images date back to Paleolithic times. One of the oldest spirals on a mammoth tusk was found in Western Siberia. Spiral motifs were found on the banks of the Desna, in Pskov and Tver, in the White Sea region, on Solovki, in all corners of the earth. The Indians especially have a lot of them. There are many spirals on the bronze figurine of the Lithuanian pagan god Perkunas - Perun. He holds a bundle of spirals in one hand and a wheel in the other. Spirals are popular among Russians in jewelry, especially on temple rings. They can be found in brooches, tiaras, and buckles. Spiral ornament is a favorite image in Russian traditional embroidery. Women of Novgorod loved to decorate their headdresses with spirals.

Trypillian figurines with imprints of grains
or with signs of a sown field

Deities with a spiral, sitting astride a wolf, were found on the territory of Russia, the Kama region. The images of the wolf and snake were the embodiment of the demons of the underworld. A labyrinth is a trap, along which you need to find a way out. But the labyrinth is also considered a home, a fortress. For many peoples, the labyrinth also reflects the sky. The floor in many temples is made like a labyrinth. Is gender earth? reflects the sky. Both Heaven and the Underworld, where everything is subject to eternal movement, repetition through the lives and destinies of people, were presented to the ancestors in the scheme of a labyrinth.

“Spiral codes were passed on from generation to generation, from people to people, from worldview to worldview, from religion to religion. The spiral is one of the oldest symbols of the Universe. And space itself is dotted and permeated with spirals-galaxies, vacuum quantum vortices. According to the torsion theory, the Universe as a supercomputer forms with the human brain a kind of biocomputer that works in accordance with torsion laws, that is, according to the principles of the same twisted spiral. 0