Signs & Symbols of Human Body

The human body was considered in many traditions to be the microcosm of the universe: everything that existed outside of a person was represented within.

Most cultures allocated symbolism to every part of the body and gave these parts meaning beyond their biological functions. In many religions the human figure symbolized the Divine Power and was the principal symbol of the sacred. Gods appeared in human form, and the Old Testament states that “God made man in his own image”.

THE SKELETON:

The grim image of a human skeleton is the personification of Death. In Classical antiquity skeletons are present at banquets as a reminder of life’s fleeting pleasure. The skeleton is often depicted sitting next to both priests and peasants as a reminder that Death treats all people equally.

• Tarot card of Death: In tarot the Death card shows arms and heads growing in the field of life, while a skeleton is scything one of the heads. The card can mean change and transformation as well as death.