Religious symbols are used to convey concepts about the sacred or holy, and humanity's relationship to the social and material world. Here are some examples of religious symbols:
- Christianity: The cross is a well-known Christian symbol. The nativity scene, which depicts the birth of Jesus, is another Christian symbol.
- Buddhism: The dharmachakra, or wheel of the law, is a Buddhist symbol.
- Islam: The crescent and star is an Islamic symbol.
- Judaism: The Star of David is a Jewish symbol.
- Hinduism: The Aum is a Hindu symbol.
- Daoism: The Tai symbol of Peace is a Daoist symbol.
- Sikhism: The Khanda is a Sikh symbol.
- Jainism: The Jain Prateek Chihna is a Jain symbol.
- Baha'i: The Nine Pointed Star is a Baha'i symbol.
- Earth Religions: The Three Goddess symbol is an Earth Religions symbol.
- Native Religions: Sweet Grass in a Smudge Bowl is a Native Religions symbol.
- Meditation and prayer: Symbols can be used as focus points for meditation or prayer.
- Behavioral change: Symbols can motivate adherence to religious principles.
- Meaning-making in crisis: Symbols can provide comfort and hope during difficult times.
- Developmental transitions: Symbols can mark important life stages, such as baptism or bar/bat mitzvah.