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Ancient Symbols Expert John Paul Gomez shares insights into symbols of strength
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Many symbols throughout history have stood for strength, courage, tenacity, and resilience. They range from powerful animals like the eagle, lion, or boar, to symbols found in nature, like the tree of life or lotus flower.[1] Other symbols of strength are specific to certain cultures, ranging from ancient Greece and Egypt to Celtic or Norse traditions. We talked to Freemason John Paul Gomez to find out more about power and strength symbols from cultures throughout the world and history!

  1. In particular, the golden eagle was considered the most powerful animal symbol of strength. Eagles were also seen as majestic, especially in flight, and were associated with the god Zeus in ancient Greek mythology.[2]
    • Origin: Greek, Roman, Aztecs, Native American (multiple tribes)
    • Golden eagle: Napoleon Bonaparte had a golden eagle as a pet to stand as a symbol of his military might.
    • According to Gomez, totem animals like the eagle were tribal symbols that often represented resilience and strength.[3]

    Meet the wikiHow Expert

    John Paul Gomez is a freemason and the founder of FraternalTies, which provides high-quality, custom Masonic neckties. He is also the Worshipful Master and Secretary of his Freemason lodge.

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  1. The lion was considered the epitome of strength, courage, and leadership. Gomez says that in the Bible, the lion is a symbol of faith and divine strength.[4] In addition to the lion’s notorious prowess as a hunter, lions symbolized Sekhmet, the Egyptian goddess of war, known for her strength, dominance, and power. Lions were also associated with Gilgamesh, a demigod in Mesopotamian mythology known for his physical strength.[5]
    • Origin: Egyptian, Mesopotamian, Greek, European
  1. The Chinese dragon was a symbol of power, prosperity, and hope. In ancient China, they were said to accompany the Chinese emperor as a sign of his royal authority. It was even believed that the Yellow Emperor of China transformed into a dragon before ascending to heaven, which was why the Chinese dragon was also a symbol of good luck.[7]
    • Origin: Far East (China)
    • Western dragon: Unlike the Chinese dragon, the medieval European dragon represented evil and chaos, and was a mythological monster to be defeated.
  1. Rocks are an eternal symbol of steadfastness. Rocks have embodied permanence and strength since ancient times. Gomez points out that the rock is a recurring motif for strength in the Bible.[8] In ancient times, rocks were often used as a permanent marker for burial sites.[9] They’ve also appeared in numerous myths and legends over time, including the Sisyphus myth from Greek mythology, and they’re still a symbol of strength today.
    • Origin: Hebrew, Greek, Celtic
  1. The oak tree signified a combination of power and blessings. It was thought to be sacred in the ancient world and often associated with the Greek god Zeus. Oak trees were recognized for their massive size, durability, and longevity because they could live for hundreds of years.[10]
    • Origin: Greek, Roman, Celtic
    • Celtic folklore: The oak tree was called Duir in Celtic mythology, where it meant “firm” and “strong.”
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  1. Bulls were a sign of strength and fertility in ancient Egypt. Early Cretan civilizations had bull cults, which celebrated the power of fertility through the Egyptian goddess Hathor, who was symbolized by a cow within the cult. Bulls were also featured in the story of the Minotaur, a monster with a bull’s head and a man’s body.[12]
    • Origin: Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Mesoamerican
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10

Tree of Life

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  1. It was depicted as a tree with roots that reach below and branches that arch up to the sky. The image was also associated with the interconnectedness of all things and the cycles of life. Celts linked the tree of life with the oak tree, another symbol of strength.[13] The tree of life is also a symbol of strength and faith in the Bible, says Gomez.[14]
    • Origin: Celtic, Egyptian, Jewish
  1. The ankh symbolizes power through eternal life. The ankh is a cross-like symbol with a loop on top. It was a symbol of power and life after death. In Egyptian art, it usually appeared in the hands of pharaohs or gods, including Ra, Isis, and Osirus. According to Gomez, it’s a symbol of “regeneration and the strength of life force.”[15]
    • Origin: Egyptian.
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12

Feathers

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  1. They were valued in Native American cultures as connecting the physical and spiritual worlds, and for their power to help birds take flight. Eagle feathers were often given as rewards for great acts of bravery and achievement in many Native American traditions.[16] And Gomez adds that peacock feathers can also be a sign of power, survival, and dominance.[17]
    • Origin: Native American
13

Lotus Flower

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  1. The lotus flower meant strength through resilience. A lotus grows through mud and murky waters only to emerge as a beautiful flower. This was a reminder about thriving through difficulties and emerging into something better. The lotus flower was considered a sacred symbol in both Hinduism and Buddhism.[18]
    • Origin: Hindu, Buddhist
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  1. Wolves symbolized power, along with victory and loyalty. In addition to being powerful hunters, wolves were the focus of the Norse warrior cult called the “ulfhednar,” or “wolf skins,” known for their wolf-like aggressiveness. Additionally, Fenrir was a wolf in Norse mythology who killed the god Odin, who himself had 2 wolf companions named Geri and Freki.[20]
    • Origin: Norse
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17

Triskelion

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  1. The triskelion was a reminder to find strength through personal growth. It appeared as 3 interconnected spirals, which also represented the cycles of birth, life, and death. These concepts were found in the triskelion as reminders to persevere through the adaptability and change needed when navigating life’s cycles. The power found in being able to evolve was also highlighted in its interconnected design.[22]
    • Origin: Celtic
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19

Scarab Beetle

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  1. The scarab beetle was a sign of strength and protection. In ancient Egypt, the scarab beetle was said to roll the sun across the sky as they did with balls of dung across the ground. Scarab amulets were worn as symbols of protection, designed with the strong exoskeleton that scarab beetles had to protect themselves in nature. Gomez says to the Egyptians, scarabs represented resilience and regeneration.[24]
    • Origin: Egyptian
    • Gomez adds that “even the seemingly ‘useless’ displays of nature, like the giant horns of a beetle, express strength through survival, attraction, and dominance.”[25]
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  1. Tigers symbolized the strength and courage of a warrior. As one of nature’s most famous predators, tigers have represented the power and fortitude to face obstacles and overcome them. They were also seen as a Chinese symbol of strength associated with leadership and authority, and protection against evil. The Hindu goddess rode a tiger as a sign of her power.[27] ?
    • Origin: Hindu, Chinese, Japanese, Native American
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23

Celtic Knot

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  1. The Celtic knot was a symbol of strength through connection. Its design included a series of lines with no beginning or end, which was also associated with wisdom and immortality. Celtic symbol knots included the Trinity knot (or triquetra), which represented the life cycles and/or the holy trinity, and the Dara knot, which was linked to the strong, sacred oak tree.[29]
    • Origin: Celtic
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25

Djed Pillar

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  1. The Djed pillar was an emblem of strength and stability. Its pillar-like shape was said to resemble the backbone of the god Osiris. This also linked the Djed pillar with themes of eternal life and resurrection. It was a central part of the annual Egyptian "Raising the Djed" ceremony, which celebrated resurrection and life after death.[31]
    • Origin: Egyptian
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26

Doric Column

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  1. The Doric column represents masculinity and strength. The Doric column dates back to the 6th Century B.C. It’s simple and elegant: an unadorned capital, wide shaft, and no base.[32] And according to Gomez, in the world of architecture and freemasonry, it symbolizes “masculine strength.”[33]
    • Origin: Greek
  1. The anchor was a reminder to remain strong in the face of adversity. It’s associated with the practice of remaining steadfast to beliefs and values, no matter what obstacles come along. The image is today a popular symbol of strength, as well as a symbol of the sea.[35]
    • Origin: Greek, Roman, Celtic
  1. Tabono was a West African and Adinkra symbol of strength and resilience. The image resembled a paddle or oar, and represented not only strength, but also the confidence and persistence of a person who paddles a boat. The tabono was a reminder that persistence and hard work were important parts of what makes someone strong.[36]
    • Origin: Adinkra (West African)
    • Adinkra culture is found in West Africa, with the Akan people in Ghana and the Ivory Coast.
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  1. The Celtic AILM represented inner strength. It resembled (and was thought to symbolize) the pine tree, and came from the Ogham alphabet, an ancient form of communication found on stones across Ireland. Ancient Celts thought of the pine tree as a symbol of healing and inner peace.[37]
    • Origin: Celtic
31

Mjölnir (Thor’s Hammer)

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  1. The mythological hammer of Thor, the Norse god of thunder, reflected his great might and ability to overcome obstacles. It was depicted as a large square-headed hammer with a short handle, and was believed to create lightning. Thor’s hammer became a protective symbol used in rituals, wedding ceremonies, and the consecration of new buildings.[38]
    • Origin: Norse
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32

Helm of Awe

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  1. The Helm of Awe was a Norse symbol of protection and strength. As a Viking symbol, it appeared as 8 tridents encircling a central point, and looked similar to a compass. Those who wore the Helm of Awe as a protective amulet in battle were said to instill fear and terror in their enemies, only to come out victorious.[39]
    • Origin: Norse, Icelandic
34

Pempamsie

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  1. The pempamsie was associated with strength through unity. Pronounced “pem-pam-see-eh,” it was an Adinkra symbol that meant "sew in readiness". The pempamsie looked like 2 chain links that were unified by a central piece. As well as strength, it was also linked to readiness, steadfastness, hardiness, valor, and foresight.[41]
    • Origin: Adinkra (West African)
  1. The Verja embodied female power in all its forms. It was considered the symbol of Indra, the Indian god of war, weather, and power. It resembled a gate or grill made up of vertical bars; the word “verja” also meant “to protect or defend” in Norse. In Hindu tradition, the verja was among many feminine symbols of courage and strength.[43]
    • Origin: Hindu
38

Huginn and Muninn

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  1. Huginn and Muninn represented symbolic strength. In Norse mythology, they were both ravens belonging to the god Odin. Huginn symbolized thought, while Muninn symbolized memory. The two ravens were said to empower Odin through wisdom and the power of the intellect, so he could make wise decisions.[45]
    • Origin: Norse
  1. Swords represented authority and power through battle. Throughout many cultures, the sword was seen as a symbol of military might, royal authority, and victory. Swords appeared on armor, helmets, and military emblems, and in medieval Europe, they were also associated with values of chivalry, like justice and discipline.[47]
    • Origin: Western Europe (medieval)
  1. In medieval Europe, shields were the main line of defense for soldiers fighting in battle. In addition to the power and durability, shields were often designed featuring other powerful symbols of strength, like the lion for strength and valor, or religious symbols like the cross. They were also linked to ideas of honor and duty.[48]
    • Origin: Western Europe (medieval)
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  1. Snakes were known as creatures of power and resilience. They were famous for shedding their skin to overcome challenges and achieve personal transformation. Ancient Egyptians and Greeks both wore snake amulets for protection against evil. Snakes were also associated with the life force and primordial energy of the universe.[49]
    • Origin: Egyptian, Greek, Roman
  1. Horses were seen as symbols of power, endurance, and independence. They were often interwoven into mythology and folk tales worldwide about royalty, authority, and the military. In life, horses were associated with strength, speed, and stamina.[51] They also came to be known as symbols of freedom, and were thought of as spiritual messengers in Native American cultures.[52]
    • Origin: Greek, Roman, Norse, Native American
  1. Iron symbolized fortitude and resilience. Known as the “metal of Mars” and the “metal of life,” iron was associated with strength, obstinacy, fortitude, honor, courage, and a sharpness of both body and mind. It was also linked to confidence and tenacity, and remains a symbol of power that has endured.[53]
    • Origin: Western European (medieval)
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46

Corporate Emblems

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  1. Corporate emblems emphasize strength through dominance. If you’re looking for a modern display of power, it doesn’t take much more than the nearest corporate logo. Gomez says, “What we perceive as strength often reflects the values of the time. In today’s culture, strength often manifests through power, wealth, and influence.”[54]

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  1. https://themindsjournal.com/10-ancient-symbols-of-power-and-strength/
  2. https://themindsjournal.com/10-ancient-symbols-of-power-and-strength/
  3. https://www.historytoday.com/miscellanies/inside-ancient-bull-cult
  4. https://www.armorial-register.com/symbols-of-strength-and-their-meanings/
  5. John Paul Gomez. Freemason. Expert Interview
  6. John Paul Gomez. Freemason. Expert Interview
  7. https://blog.nativehope.org/the-feather-symbol-of-high-honor
  8. John Paul Gomez. Freemason. Expert Interview
  9. https://www.armorial-register.com/symbols-of-strength-and-their-meanings/
  10. https://www.armorial-register.com/symbols-of-strength-and-their-meanings/
  11. https://medieval.nd.edu/news-events/news/from-the-medieval-research-blog-wolves-and-ravens-and-bears-oh-my-the-northman-and-the-beasts-of-battle/
  12. https://ehillerman.unm.edu/1420
  13. https://www.armorial-register.com/symbols-of-strength-and-their-meanings/
  14. https://www.armorial-register.com/symbols-of-strength-and-their-meanings/
  15. John Paul Gomez. Freemason. Expert Interview
  16. John Paul Gomez. Freemason. Expert Interview
  17. https://www.armorial-register.com/symbols-of-strength-and-their-meanings/
  18. https://eyeofthetigerfoundation.com/why-%22the-tiger%22
  19. https://library.acropolis.org/symbolism-of-the-elephant/
  20. https://www.theirishroadtrip.com/celtic-symbol-for-strength/
  21. https://cmes.arizona.edu/sites/cmes.arizona.edu/files/2023-07/5.+Information+on+Symbols+in+Egyptian+Religion_0.pdf
  22. https://cmes.arizona.edu/sites/cmes.arizona.edu/files/2023-07/5.+Information+on+Symbols+in+Egyptian+Religion_0.pdf
  23. https://uvamagazine.org/articles/do_you_know_your_columns
  24. John Paul Gomez. Freemason. Expert Interview
  25. https://www.armorial-register.com/symbols-of-strength-and-their-meanings/
  26. https://www.armorial-register.com/symbols-of-strength-and-their-meanings/
  27. https://www.adinkrasymbols.org/
  28. https://www.theirishroadtrip.com/celtic-symbol-for-strength/
  29. https://www.adl.org/resources/hate-symbol/thors-hammer
  30. https://www.ancient-origins.net/myths-legends-europe/helm-awe-0017212
  31. https://vikingr.org/magic-symbols/uruz
  32. https://www.adinkrasymbols.org/symbols/pempamsie/
  33. https://www.adinkrasymbols.org/symbols/okodee-mmowere/
  34. https://liveboldandbloom.com/01/self-improvement/powerful-women-symbols
  35. https://www.academia.edu/98846987/Yoni_Vulva_
  36. https://www.museum.ie/getmedia/f3819a70-1228-41da-86b3-bbfb06b515f1/Hugin-and-Munin-Info-docx.pdf
  37. https://www.legit.ng/ask-legit/1567020-symbols-strength-different-cultures/
  38. https://www.atlantis-press.com/article/25906624.pdf
  39. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/370140655_In_the_world_of_medieval_symbols_Depiction_of_a_shield_from_the_fresco_of_St_Martin's_Church_in_Wichow
  40. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/272454648_Snake_and_staff_symbolism_in_healing
  41. https://faculdade.fmpfase.edu.br/FileRepo/open-access/U69780/SymbolismOfTheCircle.pdf
  42. Pam Muller. Dream Interpreter and Certified Spiritual Advisor. Expert Interview
  43. https://www.academia.edu/9849038/A_Different_sort_of_Horse_Power_The_development_of_the_horse_as_a_status_symbol_in_the_late_Middle_Ages
  44. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4971804/#
  45. John Paul Gomez. Freemason. Expert Interview
  46. John Paul Gomez. Freemason. Expert Interview

About This Article

John Paul Gomez
Reviewed by:
Freemason
This article was reviewed by John Paul Gomez and by wikiHow staff writer, Maryana Lucia Vestic, MFA, M.Phil.. John Paul Gomez is a freemason and the founder of FraternalTies based in Toronto, Canada. With over 17 years in the world of freemasonry, John Paul is the Worshipful Master of his Freemason lodge. In 2008, when he first joined the freemason fraternity, he was searching for a Masonic necktie and discovered a need for more modern, elevated designs. In 2009, John Paul established FraternalTies, creating product lines of high-quality Masonic ties that honor the tradition and help elevate the Masonic experience for members. Their custom neckties are touted as best-in-class by several Masonic podcasts, including the Meet, Act and Part podcast and Masonic publications like the Southern California Research Lodge's Fraternal Review magazine. John Paul is an alumni from DeMolay International, a youth leadership organization with Masonic origins. This article has been viewed 1,048 times.
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Updated: December 13, 2025
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