Symbols of Germany. National symbols of Germany

What is a swastika? Many will answer without hesitation - the fascists used the swastika symbol. Someone will say - this is ancient Slavic amulet, and both will be right and wrong at the same time. How many legends and myths are there around this sign? They say that on the very shield that the Prophetic Oleg nailed to the doors of Constantinople, a swastika was depicted.

What is a swastika?

The swastika is an ancient symbol that appeared before our era and has a rich history. Many nations dispute each other's right to invent it. Images of swastikas were found in China and India. This is very significant symbol. What does the swastika mean - creation, sun, prosperity. The translation of the word “swastika” from Sanskrit means a wish for good and good luck.

Swastika - origin of the symbol

The swastika symbol is a solar sign. The main meaning is movement. The earth moves around the sun, the four seasons constantly replace each other - it is easy to see that the main meaning of the symbol is not just movement, but the eternal movement of the universe. Some researchers declare the swastika to be a reflection of the eternal rotation of the galaxy. The swastika is a symbol of the sun, all ancient peoples have references to it: at excavations of Incan settlements, fabrics with the image of a swastika were found, it is on ancient Greek coins, even on the stone idols of Easter Island there are swastika signs.

The original drawing of the sun is a circle. Then, noticing the four-part picture of existence, people began to draw a cross with four rays to the circle. However, the picture turned out to be static - and the universe is eternally in dynamics, and then the ends of the rays bent - the cross turned out to be moving. These rays also symbolize four days of the year that were significant for our ancestors - the days of the summer/winter solstice, the spring and autumn equinox. These days determine the astronomical change of seasons and served as signs when to engage in farming, construction and other important matters for society.

Swastika left and right

We see how comprehensive this sign is. It is very difficult to explain in monosyllables what a swastika means. It is multifaceted and multi-valued, it is a sign of the fundamental principle of existence with all its manifestations, and among other things, the swastika is dynamic. It can rotate both right and left. Many people confuse and consider the direction where the ends of the rays point to be the side of rotation. It is not right. The side of rotation is determined by the bending angles. Let's compare it with a person's leg - the movement is directed where the bent knee is directed, and not the heel at all.

Left-handed swastika

There is a theory that says that clockwise rotation is the correct swastika, and counterclockwise is a bad, dark swastika, the opposite. However, this would be too banal - right and left, black and white. In nature, everything is justified - day gives way to night, summer - winter, there is no division into good and bad - everything that exists is needed for something. So it is with the swastika - there is no good or bad, there is left-handed and right-handed.

Left-handed swastika - rotates counterclockwise. This is the meaning of cleansing, restoration. Sometimes it is called the sign of destruction - in order to build something light, you need to destroy the old and dark. The swastika could be worn in left rotation; it was called the “Heavenly Cross” and was a symbol of clan unity, an offering to the one who wears it, the help of all the ancestors of the clan and the protection of heavenly forces. The left-sided swastika was considered a collective sign of the autumn sun.

Right-hand swastika

The right-hand swastika rotates clockwise and denotes the beginning of all things - birth, development. This is a symbol of the spring sun - creative energy. It was also called Novorodnik or the Solar Cross. It symbolized the power of the sun and the prosperity of the family. The sun sign and the swastika in this case are equal. It was believed that greatest strength he gives to the priests. The Prophetic Oleg, who was spoken of at the beginning, had the right to wear this sign on his shield, since he was in charge, that is, he knew the Ancient Wisdom. From these beliefs came theories proving the ancient Slavic origin of the swastika.

Slavic swastika

The left-sided and right-sided swastika of the Slavs is called – and Posolon. The swastika fills the Kolovrat with light, protects from darkness, Salting gives hard work and spiritual perseverance, the sign serves as a reminder that man was created for development. These names are just two of the large group Slavic swastika signs. What they had in common were crosses with curved arms. There could be six or eight rays, they were bent both to the right and to the left, each sign had its own name and was responsible for a specific security function. The Slavs had 144 main swastika symbols. In addition to the above, the Slavs had:

Solstice;
England;
Svarozhich;
Wedding Party;
Perunov light;
Heavenly boar and many other types of variations based on the solar elements of the swastika.

Swastika of the Slavs and the Nazis - differences

Unlike the fascist one, the Slavs did not have strict canons in the depiction of this sign. There could be any number of rays, they could be broken under different angles, could have been rounded. The symbol of the swastika among the Slavs is a greeting, a wish for good luck, while at the Nazi congress in 1923, Hitler convinced supporters that the swastika meant the fight against Jews and communists for the purity of blood and the superiority of the Aryan race. The fascist swastika has its own strict requirements. This and only this image is the German swastika:

The ends of the cross should be bent to the right;
All lines intersect strictly at an angle of 90°;
The cross must be in a white circle on a red background.
The correct word to say is not “swastika”, but Hakkenkreyz

Swastika in Christianity

In early Christianity, they often resorted to the image of the swastika. It was called the “gamma cross” because of its similarity with the Greek letter gamma. The swastika was used to disguise the cross during the times of persecution of Christians - Catacomb Christianity. The swastika or Gammadion was the main emblem of Christ until the end of the Middle Ages. Some experts draw a direct parallel between the Christian and swastika crosses, calling the latter a “whirling cross.”

The swastika was actively used in Orthodoxy before the revolution: as part of the ornament of priestly vestments, in icon painting, in frescoes that painted the walls of churches. However, there is also the exact opposite opinion - the gammadion is a broken cross, a pagan symbol that has nothing to do with Orthodoxy.

Swastika in Buddhism

You can encounter a swastika wherever there are traces of Buddhist culture; it is the footprint of Buddha. The Buddhist swastika, or “manji,” denotes the versatility of the world order. The vertical line is opposed to the horizontal one, like the relationship between heaven and earth and the relationship between male and female. Turning the rays in one direction emphasizes the desire for kindness, gentleness, and in the opposite direction - for hardness and strength. This gives an understanding of the impossibility of the existence of force without compassion, and compassion without force, the denial of any one-sidedness as a violation of world harmony.

Indian swastika

The swastika is no less common in India. There are left- and right-handed swastikas. Rotation clockwise symbolizes the male energy “yin”, counter-clockwise - the female energy “yang”. Sometimes this sign denotes all the gods and goddesses in Hinduism, then, at the line of intersection of the rays, the sign “om” is added - a symbol of the fact that all gods have a common beginning.

Right rotation: denotes the sun, its movement from east to west - the development of the universe.
Left rotation represents the goddess Kali, magic, night - the folding of the universe.

Is the swastika prohibited?

The swastika was banned by the Nuremberg Tribunal. Ignorance has given rise to a lot of myths, for example, that the swastika stands for four connected letters “G” - Hitler, Himmler, Goering, Goebbels. However, this version turned out to be completely untenable. Hitler, Himmler, Göring, Goebbels - not a single surname begins with this letter. There are known cases when the most valuable specimens containing images of swastikas in embroidery, on jewelry, ancient Slavic and early Christian amulets were confiscated and destroyed from museums.

In many European countries There are laws that prohibit fascist symbols, but the principle of freedom of speech is practically undeniable. Each case of the use of Nazi symbols or swastikas looks like a separate trial.

In 2015, Roskomnazor allowed the use of swastika images without propaganda purposes.
Germany has strict legislation regulating the depiction of swastikas. There are several court decisions banning or allowing images.
France has passed a law banning the public display of Nazi symbols.

I advise people who look at Adolf Hitler as the embodiment of all the worst that can be and at Nazi Germany as the embodiment of World Evil and the Army of Darkness (please forgive me the unnecessary pathos) not to read the reflections below. And in general, think about whose LiveJournal they read.
Despite the inhospitable introduction, the thoughts will not be about the actions of the Nazis at all, but about accompanying them, so to speak.
Each country now has an almost obligatory set of attributes: Flag, Coat of Arms, Anthem for the state as a whole and many smaller attributes (not to go far for examples - the flag of the Russian Navy). Now the time is much calmer than the first half of the last century (at least at first glance), the methods of influencing the human mass have changed to more advanced ones, and state symbols now resemble more a tribute to tradition than anything else. Maybe I’m wrong, but from Russian symbols I immediately remember our tricolor flag (1. I hate the “tricolor” hybrid. 2. I can’t help but feel that the meaning of the flag is being stubbornly forgotten) and the mutant eagle, which gazes around, in a place to at least occasionally look straight ahead. Yes, there are, as I said, “smaller” attributes, but now I’m still talking about national symbols and motives in them.
The USSR will be richer in this regard, although not by much: the hammer and sickle (worker and collective farmer), the pentagram. There are a lot of propaganda posters, but there are some common motifs (the color red, the proletariat, etc.). I confess: I don’t remember how socialism and the color red are connected. It seems that everything is somewhat deeper than the “flame...” of either the mentioned “.. socialism” or the “... struggle” with someone or for something there (well, quotes from Lenin’s speeches don’t pop up now) .
In terms of state symbols, I like the Third Reich. Yes, I understand why this is so: Hitler, who was leading the country out of the crisis and strengthening his power, needed leverage over the masses of people, and well-thought-out symbolism helps with this. Maybe, if you dig deeper, everything in the USSR will turn out to be no less interesting, but in this regard I have certain doubts.

Does everyone remember the Reich flag?

With the most “terrible” symbol, the sight of which usually reflects displeasure and hostility on the faces of passers-by. I am not going to say that the swastika symbolizes the Aryan race. But I hope no one will argue with the fact that the swastika is an extremely ancient symbol, meaning at least the sun, found in many (if not every) cultures, including the Slavic ancestors. An extremely positive symbol with many derivatives. And if it were not for prejudice, then, most likely, I would wear it myself in one form or another. The problem is that this symbol is under a moral prohibition, and where this prohibition is violated, the Nazi component is usually exposed. I don’t have anything special against such a component, it just distracts attention from the essence, which is not good.

With the coat of arms, everything is no less curious.

The eagle is revered in our country today. The truth is again as a tribute to tradition, since this bird is more imperial. besides it there is the same swastika, oak leaves. If you scour the Internet and books, this set of symbols can be sorted out literally, feather by feather. Oak leaves are one of the motifs. Which is found in addition to the coat of arms on awards, posters and is used as widely as the eagle with a swastika. Unfortunately, I don’t remember a specific interpretation and can’t find it.

In addition, in the Reich there was a great love for runes, as an indicator of connection with the past. You don’t have to look far for an example - everyone has seen the emblem:

Yes, the example is already moving into the realm of particulars, but the motif of the runes was, nevertheless, common to Germany in those years.

In general, I will be even glad if I turn out to be wrong on the topic of Reich symbols and in modern society or in the USSR for example, someone finds something interesting. But for now the order of things remains such that in terms of attributes, the Reich is more than just pleasant to me.
PS. All information in the post is mainly gleaned from memory. on the other hand, almost the same thing can be easily found in Google on the first pages.

The eagle is one of the most common figures depicted on coats of arms. This proud and strong king bird symbolizes not only power and dominance, but also courage, bravery and insight. In the 20th century, Nazi Germany chose the eagle as its emblem. Read more about the Imperial Eagle of the 3rd Reich in the article below.

Eagle in heraldry

For symbols in heraldry there is a certain, historically established classification. All symbols are divided into heraldic and non-heraldic figures. If the former, rather, show how different color areas divide the field of the coat of arms itself and have an abstract meaning (cross, border or belt), then the latter depict images of objects or creatures, fictional or very real. The eagle is a natural non-heraldic figure and is considered to be the second most common in this category after the lion.

The eagle has been known as a symbol of supreme power since Antiquity. The ancient Greeks and Romans identified him with the supreme gods - Zeus and Jupiter. This is the personification of active solar energy, power and indestructibility. Often he became a personification heavenly god: if a celestial being reincarnated into a bird, then only into one as majestic as an eagle. The eagle also symbolizes the victory of the spirit over earthly nature: soaring to heaven is nothing more than constant development and ascension over one’s own weaknesses.

Eagle in the symbols of Germany

For historical Germany, the king of birds served as a heraldic symbol for quite a long time. The Eagle of the 3rd Reich is just one of its incarnations. The beginning of this story can be considered the founding of the Holy Roman Empire in 962. Double headed eagle became the coat of arms of this state in the 15th century, and previously belonged to one of its rulers - Emperor Henry IV. From this moment on, the eagle has always been present on the German coat of arms.

During the period of the monarchy, a crown was placed above the eagle as a symbol of imperial power; during the period of the republic, it disappeared. The prototype of the modern one is the heraldic eagle of the Weimar Republic, adopted as a state symbol in 1926, and then restored in the post-war period - in 1950. When the Nazis came to power, a new image of the eagle was created.

Eagle 3 Reich

After coming to power, the Nazis used the coat of arms of the Weimar Republic until 1935. In 1935, Adolf Hitler himself established a new coat of arms in the form of a black eagle with outstretched wings. This eagle holds in its paws a wreath of oak branches. A swastika is inscribed in the center of the wreath - a symbol borrowed by the Nazis from Eastern culture. The eagle looking to the right was used as a state symbol and was called state or imperial - Reichsadler. The eagle facing left remained as a symbol of the party called Partayadler - the party eagle.

The distinctive features of Nazi symbols are clarity, straight lines, sharp angles, which gives the symbols a menacing, even sinister look. This uncompromising sharpness of angles was reflected in any cultural creation of the Third Reich. Similar gloomy majesty was present in monumental architectural structures, and even in musical works.

Symbolism of the swastika

More than 75 years have passed since the defeat Nazi Germany, and its main symbol - the swastika - still causes a lot of criticism in society. But the swastika is a much older symbol, only borrowed by the Nazis. It is found in the symbolism of many ancient cultures and symbolizes the solstice - the course of the luminary across the sky. The word “swastika” itself is of Indian origin: in Sanskrit it means “well-being.” In Western culture, this symbol was known under other names - gammadion, tetraskelion, filfot. The Nazis themselves called this symbol “Hakenkreuz” - a cross with hooks.

According to Hitler, the swastika was chosen as a symbol of the Aryan race's continuous struggle for dominance. The sign was rotated 45 degrees and placed in a white circle against a red background - this is what the flag of Nazi Germany looked like. The choice of the swastika was a very good strategic decision. This symbol is very effective and memorable, and those who meet it for the first time unusual shape, unconsciously feels the urge to try to draw this sign.

Since then, the time of oblivion has come for the ancient sign of the swastika. If earlier the whole world did not hesitate to use a rectangular spiral as a symbol of well-being - from Coca-Cola advertising to greeting cards, then in the second half of the twentieth century the swastika was expelled from Western culture for a long time. And only now, with the development of intercultural communication, the true meaning of the swastika begins to be revived.

The symbolism of the oak wreath

In addition to the swastika, there was another symbol on the Wehrmacht coat of arms. The eagle holds the 3rd Reich in its claws. This image means much more to the German people than the swastika. The oak has long been considered an important tree for the Germans: like the laurel wreath in Rome, oak branches became a sign of power and victory.

The image of oak branches was intended to endow the owner of the coat of arms with the power and fortitude of this royal tree. For the Third Reich, it became one of the symbols of loyalty and national unity. The symbolism of leaves was used in the details of uniforms and orders.

Nazi eagle tattoo

Representatives of radical minorities tend to take their loyalty to the group to the extreme. Nazi symbols often become details of tattoos, including the eagle of the 3rd Reich. The designation of the tattoo is on the surface. In order to decide to immortalize the fascist eagle on your body, you must absolutely share and agree with the views of the National Socialists. Most often, the eagle is applied to the back, then the contours of the wings lie clearly on the shoulders. Similar tattoos are also found on other parts of the body, such as the biceps or even the heart.

After the war: defeated eagle

In several museums around the world, the defeated bronze eagle of the 3rd Reich is displayed as a war trophy. During the capture of Berlin, Allied troops actively destroyed all kinds of Nazi symbols. Sculptural images of an eagle, swastika and other significant images were knocked off buildings without much ceremony. In Moscow, a similar eagle is displayed in (formerly the Central Museum of the Red Army) and in the Museum of the FSB Border Service. The photo below shows a similar bronze eagle on display at the Imperial War Museum in London.

Wehrmacht eagle without swastika

Today, the Wehrmacht eagle is still associated with Nazi symbols. The characteristic silhouette and contour makes it possible to identify the eagle of the Third Reich in any seemingly neutral image of a bird, even without a swastika. For example, in the city of Orel in December 2016, a scandal erupted due to the fact that a Nazi symbol was discerned in the decor of new benches. However, the local press notes that similar discussions regarding similarity/dissimilarity and associations with fascists arise around almost every new image of an eagle, not only in the city of the same name, but throughout the entire country. Remember, for example, the symbol of Special Communications - an eagle with outstretched wings - was approved back in 1999. When comparing it with the subject of our article, you will notice that the logo really resembles the 3rd Reich eagle in the photo.

In addition to that part of the population that perceives any hint of fascist symbols in the logo as a personal insult, there is also a category of people who treat this with humor. A common pastime for designers is to cut out a swastika from an image of a coat of arms with an eagle so that they can insert whatever they want there. Moreover, there are even caricatures where, instead of an eagle, there can be any other character with wings. For the same reason, the 3rd Reich eagle without a background, drawn in vector format, is popular. In this case, it is much easier to “pull” it out of the original document and add it to any other image.

The symbols of Germany that exist today are not just images, they are logos that represent an entire state. And each of them has its own story.

German tricolor

Every country has an Anthem, Coat of Arms and Flag. These are three attributes that no state can do without. Germany is no exception. Each character listed has come a long way and can tell a lot about itself.

The German eagle is very similar to the Roman eagle. More precisely, this is its modification, so to speak. Back in 800, Charlemagne ordered the restoration of the fundamental symbol of the mighty bird and after that proclaimed the eagle the emblem of his state. However, the mascot image of the German capital is, oddly enough, a bear. This animal is a symbol of Germany. Moreover, it was adopted as a coat of arms in Berlin in the 13th century. The bear is a symbol of strength and foresight.

Oak leaves

Many have heard about the eagle, but not everyone knows another symbol of Germany. Oak leaf - this is what we are talking about. In Germany, oak has long been considered a “German” tree. There are several good reasons for this. One of them lies in the fact that durable wood and leaves with clearly defined lines have become full-fledged symbols of perseverance, courage and immortality since the distant times of the Germans.

After some time, the oak acquired another meaning, becoming a symbol of fidelity. After 1871, when the German Empire was created, they became quite popular. They spread very quickly. Almost everywhere: on coins, orders and even monuments one could see this national symbol of Germany, which successfully replaced the outdated bay leaf.

Lands of Germany

Everyone knows that this country is divided into federal states, of which there are only 16. The largest is Bavaria, and the smallest is Saarland. Each land has its own flag and coat of arms. And, I must say, they are distinguished by much more complex images than the state symbols of Germany. Although some flags and emblems of the lands are known to everyone.

For example, the flag of Bavaria is white and blue diamonds in a row. After all, this is exactly the emblem that appears on BMW cars. The coat of arms of the federal state of Bavaria is two lions holding a four-part shield. Inside it, by the way, there is another small shield.

I would like to note that almost half of the coats of arms of German lands depict animals. For example, the emblem of the state of Baden-Württemberg depicts three griffins, Berlin is symbolized by a bear, Brandenburg is symbolized by an eagle, Essen is symbolized by a lion, and Niedersachsen is symbolized by a horse. The remaining coats of arms display buildings, architecture and other interesting images. Bremen can be recognized by its red emblem with a silver key, Hamburg is a castle with three towers, and North Rhine Westphalia is a river and a horse.

Each nation has its own symbols, which reflect the traditions and character of the nation, which for a long time formed during its rich history. Likewise, the images emblazoned today on the coats of arms of the lands originate in very ancient times and are directly related to the history of the German people.

Flower symbol

Speaking about the national symbols of Germany, I would like to pay special attention to such a little-known one as the cornflower. Everyone knows that each country has “its own” plant. In Germany, this is the cornflower - delicate and incredible beautiful flower growing in the fields. It is considered a symbol of a happy omen. It is interesting that during the reign of William the First, this flower was a symbol of dominion. Then the cornflower even got a second name - “the flower of the emperor.” Thus, there are even several representatives of the “plant” symbols of Germany - these are cornflower and oak, which was already mentioned above.

German anthem

And finally, a few words about the country's national anthem. After all, as already mentioned, the symbols of Germany are not only flags and coats of arms. It's also an anthem. This is an oral symbol of the country, which in words is able to convey in words what most fully characterizes both the state and the people living in it. The authorship of “Song of the Germans” belongs to Joseph Haydn, the composer, and the poet Hoffmann von Fallersleben. Literally translated, the name of the anthem means “Germany above all.” The song feels the patriotism of the people, their love for their country, traditions and everything connected with their Motherland. Perhaps it is on this love that this mighty and strong state rests.

Symbols of the Third Reich

While reading this part, the reader will plunge into the world of symbols. In order to navigate it correctly, it is necessary to know the basic laws by which consciousness operates, believing in the special reality of the sign.

Translated from ancient Greek, the word “symbolism” means “connection, connection.” Thus, the main task of the symbol is to connect together the physical and the spiritual, the heavenly and the earthly, the familiar and the supernatural.

The sign seems to merge two natures, or sides. This allows a person to find a correspondence between phenomena and their meaning and come to an understanding of the whole multitude of changes occurring around him.

In this case, the sign acts directly, bypassing the logical apparatus of consciousness. The logician tries to build a system of correspondences between phenomena, introducing causal relationships between them. He explains event “A” based on the event “B” that happened shortly before it, without taking into account the reference to the world of the Other.

From a symbolist point of view, such thinking is fundamentally wrong. From one thing the other can follow only on the basis of a universal law operating both in the earthly and in the heavenly world. And the task of cognition lies precisely in finding such universal connections.

Symbolism by its nature is inherent in the magical perception of reality. The National Socialist movement was distinguished by precisely this view of the world. Therefore, the role of symbols in the teachings of the Third Reich is much higher than, for example, in communist ideology.

In addition, if science presupposes proof and scientists, then symbolism presupposes insight and interpreters relying on the power of their authority. Therefore, it was more suitable for Hitler than other methods of influencing the masses. A well-developed symbolic series, in his opinion, could do more to raise the people's spirit than hundreds of incomprehensible speeches by intellectuals.

Now the advantages that the active use of symbols provide are quite clear. But, in addition to all of the above, one more question remains: do the signs really have a mystical meaning and is it possible to control human energy on their basis?

Not a single person lives outside the symbolic space of a particular culture. And symbols not only replace some existing qualities (for example, courage or strength), but are also a kind of magnifier, allowing, in the absence of the designated object, to show it and even enhance its impact.

A good example of the action of a sign can be given by turning to the life of primitive societies. When someone from a wild African tribe learns that a famous sorcerer has cursed him and performed such and such a ritual for this, he will not feel healthy until he begs another shaman to lift the spell. If counteraction is not made, he can easily die.

The Vikings also used the same terrifying signs. The prows of their warships - drakkars - were decorated with figures of dragon heads, and they applied runic spells to their weapons. Centuries later, the SS men would wear a death's head ring on their finger, perhaps precisely to make themselves implacable and instill fear in their enemies.

One should not think that the world of symbols is a thing of the past forever. From time to time it comes to the surface again, and then the stronger one turns out to be the one who is better able to use ancient signs and, with their help, turn in his favor the opinion of the majority of people who are unaware of their effect.

Swastika

Few people today would disagree that the swastika is the most famous symbol of the fascist empire. In her ceremonies he occupied a central place, everything most significant was marked by his presence.

This is probably why in countries that fought against the Third Reich, it is often given negative meaning, a symbol of fascism is considered synonymous with destruction, death and dark forces.

But the swastika has a much more ancient and mysterious history. They began to use it in mystical teachings long before the time when German nationalists paid attention to it, and they received it already containing a rich layer of meanings, which we will try to understand.

The oldest drawing containing the image of a swastika was discovered in the territory of modern Transylvania. Scientists date it to the end of the Neolithic era. During excavations of ancient Troy, Heinrich Schliemann found numerous stone slabs, on which this sign was also carved.

It is interesting that in the area inhabited by Semitic tribes, in the upper Mesopotamia and Phenicia, the swastika is almost never found. Such observations allowed archaeologist Ernst Kraus to put forward the thesis back in 1891 that this symbol is inherent only to peoples of Indo-European origin.

Following him, the famous mystic and occultist Guido von List, in his works devoted to the deciphering of runic texts, in which, by the way, these images are also often found, supports this thesis. For Liszt, the swastika was a symbol of the fiery energy of the pure Aryan race. It also denoted secret Nordic science and magical knowledge.

Traces of swastikas various shapes are actually found in the territory of settlement of tribes that, according to the theory of anthropologists of that time, were of Aryan origin. Back in the 6th millennium BC. e. she was known to the inhabitants of the Arabian Peninsula. From there it spread to almost every corner of Eurasia.

In ancient Chinese manuscripts, in which the hieroglyphic system had not yet fully developed, the image of a swastika denotes the concept of “region, country.” It was probably meant that it resembled a circle, gradually converging towards the center, just as the entire territory of the country closed on the capital and the emperor.

This symbol became widespread in India, precisely after the more ancient Harrapan civilization was literally swept away by the Aryan tribes. There it denoted the sacred sacrificial fire, which the gods used during the creation of the world, and people during funeral rite and cremation.

The word “swastika” itself is of ancient Indian origin. Translated from Sanskrit, it sounds like “connected with good.” In Vedic culture, the swastika was used to symbolize the world cycle of all things. It’s as if two people came together in it geometric figures- square and circle. The first symbolizes the material world, its edges correspond to the four elements and four cardinal directions. But the image of the cosmos in this figure appears completely complete and does not contain a hint of any change.

The circle, on the contrary, is a sign of the sun or the firmament. It implies cyclical change, restoration vitality. Among the nomadic peoples of the Mongolian steppes, the circle serves as a sign that one must begin to move to a new place.

In alchemy, a circle with a dot in the middle represented gold, the most perfect of all metals. The Rosicrucians continue this interpretation and use the circle as a symbol of imperial power. The center gave the circle meaning, just as the king brought closer or punished his subjects.

Thus, the swastika embodies both the stability of the material world and the changing cyclical force of nature. That is why in Indian mysticism it was interpreted as perfection.

On the footprint of Buddha, in addition to the world wheel - mandala - you can see numerous images of a cross with crossbars curved in a clockwise direction, which corresponds to the movement of the Sun. The cross is often depicted together with a lotus flower - a symbol of enlightenment.

It is no coincidence that it was with the spread of Buddhism, which made the swastika one of its symbols, that it came with a renewed meaning to the territory of China and Japan. In this religion, the swastika serves as a symbol of the sacred law of Prince Gotama.

Traces of this symbol have even been found among the indigenous inhabitants of Latin America. It penetrated religions as dissimilar and distant from each other as Shintoism and early Christianity. In the Baltic states and the Caucasus it was used as a protective amulet until the mid-20th century.

Both medieval alchemists and modern esotericists and scientists tried to solve the mystery of the mystical meaning of the swastika. One of the most famous occultists of our time, Rene Guenon, wrote the work “The Symbolism of the Cross.” In it he considers various ways drawings of this central figure for European culture, including the one that attracted Hitler and his associates.

According to Guenon, the swastika is one of the varieties of the horizontal cross, which serves as a symbol of the original principle that centers and orders the Universe. Its curved ends serve as an example of the earthly material world, which is set in motion with the help of magical energy.

Although Guenon did not attach importance to the direction of rotation, it is known that Hitler paid extraordinary attention to this point. He even decided to replace the left-handed swastika of the Thule society, which he adopted as a model, with the right-handed one found in ancient Indian texts.

What prompted him to take this step? The apparent direction of rotation will change if the figure is viewed from above or below, while the symbol itself remains the same. Perhaps he wanted in this way to show the position of the Aryan man, standing above the earthly principle of development.

To Hermann Rauschning, whom the Fuhrer valued as a good conversationalist and often had long conversations with him about politics and ideology, Hitler said the following words: “The swastika is the fight for the victory of the Aryan movement and at the same time the swastika symbolizes creativity.” Above on the pages of the book we have already discussed the solar Nordic race, in which this solar sign played not the least role.

The famous psychoanalyst Wilhelm Reich, who studied fascism and its influence on the consciousness of the masses, also did not ignore the attractiveness of the swastika for the people of Germany. But unlike Guenon, he used a sexual interpretation that was close to him and often used in psychology.

In his opinion, the symbol is not analyzed by the observer, but acts directly on his subconscious emotions. Thus, the swastika evokes in the subconscious the image of the bodies of two people entwined around one another. The horizontal and vertical lines correspond to the two directions of sexual intercourse.

The less sexually satisfied a particular representative of society is, the more he strives to release his accumulated energy. This means that the swastika not only arouses strong emotions in him, but also directs them in the right direction, that is, for the benefit of the Third Reich and those who control it.

In addition, the additional shade of purity and honor that was imparted to the sign is important. Since many people feel embarrassed when trying to realize their secret desires, it is very important to give them external sanction to do so. Moreover, if a leader does this, as Hitler was considered to be, not without reason, such people will be infinitely grateful to him for their “liberation.”

To appear on the flag fascist Germany Aleister Crowley, whom many of his contemporaries considered a Satanist, also considered himself involved in the swastikas. In the margins of his notes he mentions the fact that he proposed this symbol to the German mystic Ludendorff between 1925 and 1926.

When the latter, an ardent supporter of the restoration of Aryan culture, a member of the Thule Society and the Order of the New Templars, asked Crowley for advice on the formation of the Nordic religion, he suggested that he use the swastika. In ancient Germanic manuscripts it is often called “Thor’s hammer,” which, as is known, always returned to its owner after being thrown, like an Australian boomerang.

The weapon of the god of war was called Mjolnir, which even sounds like the Russian word for “lightning.” Thus, the symbol of a cross with curved ends carries an additional connotation of swift and destructive light power. Crowley certainly took this aspect into account when he proposed placing the swastika at the center of the entire Aryan cult.

However, it is more likely that Hitler borrowed the idea of using this symbol from people close to him from the occult environment. The famous mystic Karl Haushofer, who will be discussed in more detail below, argued that among the ancient German magicians and priests - the Druids - the swastika was a symbol of fire and fertility. Therefore, it was included, along with runes, in both combat and peaceful spells.

We have already written that main sign fascism came to the NSDAP flag from the coat of arms of the Thule society. However, many other occult societies also paid great attention to it. During the First World War, when many members of the secret order of the New Templars went to the front, they wore amulets with swastikas as amulets.

We could talk about the properties of this sign for a very long time. But the main mystical meaning has already begun to emerge. Let us once again point out its three components: activity, development and solarity. It was they who allowed him to take center stage on the flag of the Third Reich.

Reich flag - power and purity of race

It is true that the flag of a state represents the spirit of society. They go on the attack after him, since he is considered almost the embodiment of the homeland: the soldiers swear allegiance to him, and the loss of the flag is a shame for any army.

But, in addition, the flag communicates between the people, the land and the ruler. After all, on the battlefield in ancient times, the prince stood under him, and it was he who was oriented towards him during the battle. And in times of peace, he stood near the throne, carefully guarded until new battles.

Everyone probably remembers the footage of the 1945 Victory Parade: bowed fascist banners are carried across Red Square and thrown to the walls of the Kremlin to the beat of drums. This scene fully reflects the fact that the symbolic value of the flag has not diminished over the years.

This whole scene is imbued with deep meaning. Although the battles took place not only near Moscow, in the magical aspect the war took place right here - on the last line, near the walls of the sacred center, which was also the center of power (the Kremlin). The division flags represent defeated enemy soldiers, and not the personal standard of Adolf Hitler, the fallen leader of the invaders, who accidentally appeared in the foreground of the movie cameras.

Let us leave aside for now the complex symbolic world of a military parade and pay attention to another feature of the flag. Its panel contains information in a compressed form about the type of country and traditions of the people. The stars on the banner of the USA or the European Union, the number of stripes and their direction, the colors - in a word, everything has its own special meaning, now understandable only to vexillograph specialists.

From the very times when flags appeared, they carried, first of all, the meaning of amulets - things that protect their owner. Only in this case we were talking about an entire people. On the banners ancient Russian princes mythical birds, seraphim or the face of the Savior flaunted, designed to protect the army in battle. And the flags of Great Britain and Switzerland still depict crosses - signs of the patron saints of these countries.

This means that the standard of the state not only symbolizes the state itself, but also performs purely magical functions. In the Third Reich, where so much attention was paid specifically to the mystical aspects of everyday life, all these points could not go unnoticed.

Let's take another look at the banner of Hitler's Germany. On a red background in the center there is a white circle in which a black swastika is placed - the main symbol of the Aryan revival. Let us analyze in sequence all the semantic layers that were only briefly illuminated before.

The flag of the Third Reich was actually copied thoroughly from the banners under which supporters of Hitler’s party, the NSDAP, went to rallies. And as you know, the occult society “Thule” played an important role in the creation of the National Socialist organization.

Thus, the roots of this symbol directly indicate that its creators invested a special meaning in it. The Thule Society consulted with many mystically oriented heraldists who were looking for hints of Germany's ancient Aryan past in the coats of arms and banners of the ancient aristocratic families of Europe. Therefore, the colors and their arrangement for it were chosen with special meaning.

If you look closely, flags can be divided into two groups: those with a pronounced center and those whose colors are evenly distributed. If the latter are more typical for states with a democratic structure of society, then the former are more typical for monarchies and empires. These include the banner of Great Britain, as well as pre-war Japan, on which in the center there was a solar circle with rays diverging in all directions. There are exceptions - let's remember our Russian tricolor.

This difference is understandable: in countries with strict authoritarian power, the role of the center is emphasized in every possible way, and the figure of the monarch is given paramount importance. When the rule in Germany passed into the hands of Hitler, he did not hesitate to change the flag model to one that was more suitable for his totalitarian way of governing the country.

Nazi symbolism of flowers also has magical meaning. There are only three colors on the Reich banner, but what colors - red, black and white! Let's try to describe the picture that can be drawn with their help.

First of all, red, which is selected as the background on the flag. The symbolism of red color is generally clear - it is blood and flame. It is no coincidence that regarding the revolutionary banner Soviet republic There were comments that those who raised it want to drown Russia in blood.

It must be remembered that the theme of blood in Nazi Germany initially had a creative rather than a destructive meaning. Through its purification it was supposed to give life to a new society, the members of which would be better than the previous ones. But the actions by which this was achieved undoubtedly gave the red color a dark, bloody hue.

In addition, we should not forget that the National Socialist Party initially acted as a revolutionary party. It arose on a wave of dissatisfaction with the prevailing order at that time and appealed mainly to the fact that it should be replaced by another government.

Above we discussed the concept of “blood and soil”, with the help of which the consciousness of the Germans was literally remade in accordance with new principles. The red background could be misread (for example, as an indication of communist ideas) or not accepted at all if it were not based on such a holistic theory. And on the contrary, its existence only strengthened the effect of the flag, creating a single iconic environment.

White color has many meanings: sunlight, purity, and, in addition, chosenness and holiness. All of them somehow fell into the image that added a white circle to the banner. The figure itself was also not chosen by chance: it is a direct indication of the circle of initiates and mystical protection.

Hitler said about the Reich banner: “As National Socialists we see our program in our flag. The red field symbolizes the social idea of the movement, the white field symbolizes the nationalist idea.” These words accurately reflect how this color combination was understood by most of his contemporaries.

The swastika became black not only because it looks very contrasting against a white background. Although this factor should not be discounted. The central symbol was supposed to denote the creative principle that distinguished, separated one from the other in the process of creating the world.

Separation is a function of death, but in this context it does not appear to us in a negative light. It reflects the understanding that without death there would be no life, that is, the idea of predestination, providence.

The idea that everything that happens is in the hands of Fate was close and understandable to both Hitler and the ordinary soldier himself. Through a variety of prophecies and pseudoscientific theories, the occult leaders of Nazi Germany sought to substantiate and strengthen it in the minds of everyone.

The Fuhrer of the Third Reich was not the inventor of the swastika, but he developed the concept of the Nazi banner almost independently. It can be assumed that he devoted a lot of time and effort to this issue, since he was absolutely confident in the indestructible magical power of the banner.

The following is known: wherever Hitler appeared, on the battlefields or on the streets of peaceful cities, he was accompanied everywhere by his own standard. The project was created under the personal supervision of Hitler, and when the banner was ready, it was checked by people from the Ahnenerbe organization for the presence of harmful or life-threatening energies.

After this, the standard was secretly taken to the place where Kaiserling, whose embodiment the Fuhrer considered himself to be, was buried, and was consecrated according to Teutonic custom. This man's invulnerability became legendary, as did his connection with dark forces. In this way, Hitler wanted to protect himself from enemy attack, as well as from an unexpected conspiracy.

So, the symbolism of the fascist flag fit perfectly into the consciousness of people. Let's not forget that the banner plays a more significant role in wartime than in peacetime. Initially, it was designed to gather warriors and lead them into battle.

In the National Socialist standard, a person who understood occult symbolism could read in advance both future destructive wars and numerous human sacrifices in the name of the ideal of racial purity. It is not surprising that many subconscious level Anticipating evil, even before the formation of the Third Reich, they began to think about emigration.

Those who had a hand in its creation could not help but guess about its meaning. But for them, it may have been only a cunning magical device capable of collecting, like a lens, the energy of people who stood under the banners of the fascist empire. And then they planned to use (and used) for their own purposes, understandable only to them.

Sacred bird of Wotan

The coat of arms of modern Germany depicts a black eagle with widely spread wings. And this is by no means a relic of the dark fascist past. This symbol has accompanied the formation of this country since much more ancient times.

If the raven personified the magical side of the main Germanic god Wotan, then the eagle represented his warrior spirit. And the bird of prey had such significance not only in Germany.

A researcher of the heritage of the northern tribes, Guido von List, suggested that the eagle was a symbol of solar energy among the ancient Armanist and Aryan peoples.

To the closest of them - the ancient Greeks - this bird was well known and was revered as the king of the heavenly world. She was considered the embodiment of the will of Zeus, because eagles flew only on his orders. Therefore, there was fortune-telling by their flight, with the choice being determined by which direction and how many birds would fly past a person.

The eagle became a full-fledged imperial symbol in Rome. The standards of the power base of the holy city - the legions - were crowned with the wings of an eagle. Losing it in battle was considered not only a sign of cowardice, but also a sign of disrespect for the god Jupiter (the Roman equivalent of Zeus).

Therefore, when the soldiers retreated without a command, the standard bearer (who in the Roman infantry was called signifer, from the name of the banner - signum) threw it at the enemy. Then the entire legion turned around and fought until it won back its sign or died. Deprived of eagle wings, he accelerated, but before that, death awaited every tenth private. This cruel military rite was called decination.

Even in the Andes, far from Europe, the eagle was revered as the sacred bird of the sun. Many tribes distant from each other perceived it as a symbol of cosmic order, the embodiment of bright heavenly forces.

The Aztecs, who worshiped the sun, had a ritual of sacrificing captives to the eagle. They cut out their hearts with a wide flint knife and held them up, as if to attract the attention of birds. A good sign It was considered that the royal bird accepted the gift when the predator flew from the sky to feast on fresh meat.

The ritual is very reminiscent of the famous Greek mythology the legend of Prometheus. By order of Zeus, his liver was pecked every day by a mighty eagle. Thus, the bird of prey could play an important role in male cults and initiations, when the symbolic rebirth of boys into full members of the community took place.

Indian warriors North America also called themselves eagles. The connection with the spirit of the aggressive bird was symbolized by the tail feathers, which could only be worn by those who had accomplished a military feat. They believed that after death, the souls of warriors who died in battle became demigods and flew to heaven in the form of an eagle.

This predator is also known to Indian shamans. When they want to cause rain, they turn to the eagle totem. A thundercloud takes on his appearance in order to move faster across the sky and strike the earth with lightning.

In Indian myths, the guardian of the universe, Vishnu, has a sacred bird, Garuda. She has the head and wings of an eagle, so she flies at the speed of light and carries the god during his wanderings around the world.

According to legend, when she was born, she shone so brightly that the gods at first mistook her for the fire god Agni. Garuda's wings are so strong that the wind they raise can slow down the rotation of the world. It is on it that Vishnu goes into battle against evil demons - asuras.

We can pause a bit and make a few generalizations. Firstly, in all the above myths and legends, the eagle is a royal bird. Even if it is not associated with supreme god directly, then it is easy to find him among devoted magical assistants.

The next common point is its solar nature. In fact, the eagle flies higher than most birds, almost touching the sun (at least it might have seemed so to our ancestors). Therefore, sometimes, for example in Iranian myths, the luminary is represented in the form of this bird.

Another feature that adds a lot of interest to the magical image of the eagle is the extraordinary vigilance of the winged predator. It easily turned into insight, and then turned into wisdom.

But the latter, in contrast to the calm experience gained in thought, had the character of an instantaneous intuition, more necessary in battle than in peacetime. Although Faust, in order to survey all the diversity of the world from a bird's eye view, used his wings.

This makes the eagle a war bird, introducing into its image an additional meaning of power and swiftness. It matches the destructive, bloodthirsty spirit of battle. It is no coincidence that this predator often appears over battlefields during battle, while after its completion only corpse eaters - vultures and crows - dominate them.

In one of the propaganda posters from the time of Nazi Germany, an eagle flies off a cliff, breaking the chains that chained it to the stones. According to the creators, this picture was supposed to symbolize the awakening Aryan spirit of the German people. In this case, chains meant either the machinations of a world conspiracy or one’s own ignorance.

However, in most images, including on the coat of arms, this bird had a different pose: wings spread to the sides with sword-like feathers, widely spread claws, and an open beak. With her entire appearance she expressed increased aggressiveness, a readiness to attack or defend.

This image is very typical of an empire striving for territorial acquisitions. Even if it does not actually encroach on other people's lands, its position in the region will certainly be dominant. Instead of seizures, you can always limit yourself to spreading your influence.

When Hitler came to power, he changed the flag, but did not change the coat of arms and the main symbol of the country. Apparently, they perfectly corresponded to his plans and did not interfere with other signs at all. The most famous combination of an eagle and a swastika appeared in the badge of the Wehrmacht - the German army: a bird with outstretched wings holds in its talons a wreath of oak leaves, which contains a cross with curved ends.

It is necessary to say a few words about another important symbol of Germany - the oak. The leaves of this tree are part of the unofficial symbols of the country, and are also represented on the coats of arms of many aristocratic families.

The oak tree has long been known as a symbol of statehood. Its size made it easily stand out among other trees, and its longevity (more than 300 years) made it synonymous with stability and strength.

Since ancient times, its wood has been an excellent material for shields and other items that should be durable and not let the owner down. Its bark contains tannins that allow it to be tanned. Its decoction is also used in folk medicine.

But this is not the most important thing. For the esoteric circles of Germany, it was much more important that the ancestors of the Germans had long attributed magical powers to oak trees.

Many researchers of the past drew attention to the fact that the Gallic tribes had no other sanctuaries except forbidden forests and groves that were considered inviolable. There, the Druid priests made sacrifices at the roots of the most spreading tree. The word “druid” itself, by the way, is translated from Old Norse as “oak”.

It was considered a symbol of Odin, and prisoners dedicated to this god were hung from its branches. According to the beliefs of the Gauls and Germans, in him, as in the “first among the aces,” they agreed military strength, strong spirit and magical energy.

The oak staff served the Druids as both a magic wand and a rather dangerous weapon. Later, a similar item will also appear in the ritual of the Order of the New Templars. However, this tree was most revered among the mystics of 20th century Germany by Guido von List.

His “Armanenschaft”, which will be written about in more detail below, was, according to the creator, the restoration of secret knowledge that the German priest-kings once possessed. Their magic was based on the unknown properties of plants and natural elements. The oak played in rituals the role of the beginning that gathers and harmonizes all others.

A wreath of oak leaves, according to Liszt, was the oldest symbol authorities in Germany. Christianity has forgotten the meaning of this tree, but it has survived to this day in folk tales and on the coats of arms of ancient families, which List considered to be the descendants of Druid priests who were forced to hide and resort to secret symbols.

In the alchemical tradition, oak corresponds to the element earth. This emphasizes its fundamental importance in the transformation of matter, and gives occultists another reason to claim that alchemists partially borrowed their knowledge from magicians who had long disappeared from Europe.

Both the eagle and the oak wreath were not, unlike the swastika or the Nazi flag, innovations of the ideologists of the Third Reich.

But it should be noted that they very accurately fit into the realities of that time and interacted favorably with other signs. This really makes us think about forces dormant for the time being, which are embodied in a symbolic series and only occasionally, in special epochs, come to the surface.

Using runes

Ancient signs have always aroused great interest. According to many people searching for lost knowledge, it is through studying it that one can gain a wealth of hidden mystical meaning.

During the Renaissance, the language and writing of antiquity were rediscovered. Later, with the advent of the culture of romanticism, Europeans awakened interest in their ancestral texts and forgotten traditions and legends of their ancestors.

In addition to recording information, runes (that’s what the letters of the Scandinavian alphabet were called) have traditionally been assigned three more important functions. These were fortune telling, secret writing and, of course, magic. Although these signs have not been used for everyday writing since the early Middle Ages, in the three areas listed above they have retained their original meaning.

The oldest meaning of the word “rune” is “secret”. This fact alone shows that symbols were used primarily for mystical purposes, and secondarily as elements of writing. Subsequently, researchers called the earliest alphabet the elder runes.

It originated among the Germanic and Norwegian tribes and consisted of 24 characters. As well as greek word“alphabet”, formed from the names of the first letters of the series, the sequence of senior runes is called Futhark.

All runes are traditionally divided into three groups, called attami (translated from the Old Norse “att” - “genus”). Each of them is dedicated to a specific deity. The first att bears the name of the gods - the patrons of the home of Frey and Freya. the second is the guard of the gods Heimdal, and the third is the god of war Thor.

Within the framework of Futhark, each rune was determined by its own meaning, more or less stable. But in mythological terms, it corresponded to a special patron or sacred object. In addition, she was responsible for one or another trait of human character, color, gem and a natural phenomenon that could be caused with its help.

Another layer of its meaning could be discovered from the signs standing nearby. Various combinations were either beneficial or, on the contrary, harmful for a person practicing witchcraft. The ability to use all kinds of options for composing runes in spells was considered a very valuable art among the Germans and Scandinavians.

We will only give short description Futharkian elements. It will also be necessary to mention the methods of fortune telling, as they were actually used during World War II to reveal the plans of the Allies. And finally, runes were part of the symbolism of the Third Reich and were not chosen for this purpose by chance.

“Feu” is the first rune, the magical meaning of which is associated mainly with material values. She can help overcome need, but she will not do it in the same way Magic wand. A bag of money, of course, will not fall from heaven at the feet of the sufferer, but the chance of finding a job with the help of this rune increases.

Wise older women advise young women to use this sign to harmonize relationships with the opposite sex. Since the patroness of this rune is the Scandinavian goddess of love Freya, she helps to bewitch the chosen one. But you shouldn’t hope that “feu” is capable of improving a person’s emotional sphere: connection with material world is decisive for her.

In addition, it is associated with the management of internal energy - vril - and attracts various sorcerers and especially witches, because this rune is female. As part of a spell, it is capable of enhancing the effect of the entire combination, so it is repeated in many rituals even several times.

The next rune of the big Futhark is “urus”. In mythology, it corresponds to the sacred source Urd, which gives wisdom and strength. In addition, prophetic powers are not alien to her, since three elder norns live at the roots of the spring, who, like the parks in Greek mythology, assign people their fate. This is precisely what determines its magical meaning and makes it a sign of invincible vitality.

The Urus rune also personifies the original unity of the male and female principles. In Chinese mysticism, the symbols yin and yang play a similar role. In spells, this rune acts as an energy generator, and during healing it is capable of transferring fresh strength to a weakened patient.

By its nature, "Urus" is good remedy to resolve difficult situations. This rune simultaneously calms and gives stability to what is happening. And in case a difficult situation too long, helps to find the right and energetic way of action.

"Turisa" is a rune that was used in many cases, although it was believed that it introduced an evil element into the spell. She helped when a person needed to find peace or bring elements of order into the world around him.

Its name is translated from Old Norse as “giant, jotun”, but also as “magician”, “demiurge”. After all, according to legends, it was the giants who were the first creators of the world. On the one hand, the rune is associated with Thor, the good giant who serves the Aesir, and is his magical hammer Mjolnir, and on the other hand, it personifies the evil ice giants Grimturs.

Such duality predetermines the transitional meaning of this rune. According to Guido von List, in Armanist rituals it meant initiation, a mystical test, after which the warrior realized his destiny.

The fourth Futhark rune - “ace” - is one of the most important in the entire series. After all, it represents the name of God and is directly related to the god Odin - the first among the Aesir. In addition, she embodies precisely Hroft the shaman, that is, the magical aspect of his power.

In the mythical tradition, this rune is associated with Gyulvi, the legendary brave warrior. It is to him that the “Speech of the High One” (that is, Wotan) is addressed. He has achieved power, but in order to become truly great, he will have to learn magical secret writing.

Therefore, the meaning of this symbol can be defined as proactive. But unlike the previous one, “as” means spiritual dedication. This rune signifies the skald's inspired speech coming from above, as well as intuition, which was also considered a gift from the gods.

If you look closely, the rune resembles a man extending his hands downwards towards the crowd, to whom he is addressing from a dais. When creating magic, it was used as a speech amplifier, giving it firmness and persuasiveness. It is possible that it was also used by Hitler in his public speaking in the form of one of the passes.

According to ancient German beliefs, “Raido” was considered the rune of the path. Amulets with her image were considered the best remedy, protecting the wanderer from troubles on the road.

In addition, it corresponds to the cosmic chariot (Sun), moving in a circle and ordering the primordial chaos. Modern esotericism calls such cycles the breath of the Universe, which adds an energetic aspect to the sign. It was also used as an auxiliary in rituals, since the main task of the latter was to restore cosmic integrity.

Psychologically, "raido" means constant change. Just as the horizon line constantly eludes the person approaching it, so the road runs forward, never ending. Therefore, the one to whom it falls during fortune telling must be patient.

The next rune - “kena” - corresponds to inspiration. But unlike “as,” it does not mean lightning-fast insight, but creative energy. Therefore, “kena” was considered especially favorable for craftsmen and artists.

In any craft, from the point of view of the ancients, there was something of magic. All mystics and occultists are under the protection of the “kena” rune. Since its name translates as “torch,” it symbolizes knowledge leading from the darkness of ignorance.

IN German From this root comes the verb kennen, meaning “to know, to be able to.” And in English it is close in sound to a word with a similar meaning, but with an additional meaning of power.

In mythology, it corresponds to Muspelheim - the habitat of fire giants. There is a particle of it in the fire, but “ken” takes on an evil hue in combination with strong runes, just as fire brings destruction when turning into a forest fire. It is no coincidence that in Tarot cards this sign in an inverted position corresponds to the fifteenth lasso - the Devil.

The Gebo rune is absent in the Younger Futhark. In writing it is similar to the Latin letter “x”, but in writing it denotes the sound “g”. Its meaning corresponds to the content of the word “gift”. It should be remembered that the gift had a more serious meaning in ancient times. In one of his speeches, Odin advises people to give each other more different things, which is an excellent reason for friendship.

In addition to generosity, it also personifies a connection, a union of two principles. Rune researcher Harold Bloom considered it a symbol of marriage, including in the sense of “alchemical marriage” - the merging of essences to obtain a new substance. Therefore, in magic spells it is responsible for the formation of the unity of opposites.

On the other hand, the act of giving is associated with duty: receiving a guest and giving him a gift was considered the sacred duty of the owner, and evading this ritual often led to bloody battles. Like prizes, receiving valuable items is associated with fame and fortune in a duel.

From the point of view of magical thinking, an object carries a particle of power that belonged to its previous owner. Therefore, primitive man was afraid to pick up an unfamiliar thing - what if it previously belonged to a sorcerer and could bring harm to the new owner? On the contrary, when dividing the spoils of war, the leader, giving everyone his share, also shared part of his heroic strength.

The last rune of the first atta is “wunjo”. It symbolizes the finale (but not the final one, since the symbolic series is not yet completed) and victory. It is traditionally associated with celebration, joy, and positive energy.

Medieval knights, when mentioning this rune, referred to the Holy Grail to explain its meaning. This allows us to conclude that the meaning of “wunjo” also includes elements of blessing from above.

If this rune appears during fortune telling, great luck awaits the person. All his thoughts will come true easily, seemingly by themselves. Sorrows will dissipate, and the problems that tormented the soul will recede before the good power of this rune.

It was shaped like a weather vane, so it was also associated with change. Naturally, since the sign is generally positive, these were changes for the better. In addition, this symbol, standing last in the earthly atta, marked the end of earthly affairs and an easy death in old age.

The next row opens with the Hagal rune. It is interpreted very ambiguously by different Futhark experts. After the completion of the first atta, destruction occurs, and the cosmic forces of primordial chaos come into action.

In mythology, this sign corresponds to Ragnarok - the end of the world, predicted in the “Prophecy of the Völva”. It combines the destructive energy of fire (sol rune) and the cold of ice (isa rune). But, on the other hand, “hagal” personifies more ancient images of the world.

One of the meanings of the word “hagal” is egg. Researchers see in this a hint of the original state of the cosmos, which is described in a similar way by the early Christian Gnostics. Hans Herbiger believed that it was in this rune that the knowledge of the ancient Atlanteans about the history of the world was hidden. A multi-layered ice egg (a giant planet) collided with fire (the Sun), resulting in an explosion, which however led to the origin of life on Earth. Therefore, “hagal”, despite the negative aspect, contains grains future life. A skilled magician can use this moment to his advantage by using the symbol against the chain of events that he wants to break.

The name of the rune “naud” seems to be one of the most cheerful. The description in the text of the Elder Edda is accompanied by the following words:

Know the runes of beer

to deceive you

wasn't scary!

Apply them to the horn

draw on your hand

rune “naud” - on the nail.

The signs of this group bear, first of all, protective functions. They protect their owner from deception and betrayal.

In addition, they prevent a person from getting drunk too quickly after drinking alcohol or, even worse, drinking low-quality or poisoned beer.

However, from the ancient Norse language its name is translated as “need, necessity.” It should be understood in two ways. Firstly, this is material need, poverty. But knowledgeable person it brings deliverance from suffering, as the text of the ancient Saxon rune poem tells about it:

A tight bandage will tighten the need for the chest,

but it can also turn into help,

if you turn your gaze to her in time.

Another meaning is associated with need as a need for something that does not yet exist. Here we are talking about destructive desires, the culprit of which is the person himself. However, as in the first case, the meaning of the rune can be both destructive and creative. The person reflecting on it was asked to direct his thoughts in the right direction and not waste energy in vain.

The next rune - “isa” - from a magical point of view, is one of the most powerful in all of Futhark.

In the mythology of the Celts and Germans, the rune had its counterpart: the primordial cold matter, from which life subsequently arose with the help of fire.

Traditionally in symbolism, fire is seen as a male active force, while water is female and passive. The first streams of water that emerged from the union of ice and fire - Eligavar - gave birth to the first life - the giant jotuns. From the body of one of them, Odin (himself, by the way, a giant by birth) creates the world around him.

According to its meaning, “isa” can stop processes, which is why it is considered one of the runes of procrastination. But at the same time, it is not without an element of destruction, because the cooled liquid expands and can split the vessel in which it is enclosed from the inside. We should also not forget about the enormous force of the avalanche rushing from the mountains.

In the mystical tradition, ice is a symbol of wisdom coming from the depths of centuries. Alchemists showed special interest in it: this element was considered a “transitional bridge” between the liquid and solid states of matter.

The “jera” rune completes a series of symbols, with a negative connotation. Already by the similarity of its name with the English word “jear” one can guess its main meaning - a year, to which is added the additional meaning of a completed cycle and harvest.

For the inhabitants of the harsh North, the fruit harvest season was very important. How well the bread was harvested depended on how the family would survive the winter. Since the year could also be unlucky, the character of the “jer” is changeable: the rune either brings life or takes it away from people.

But all these are links of one chain. Without failure there is no happiness, and without death there is no life. Main lesson, which teaches the symbol of the year, changes are part of the cosmic cycle, and no one can avoid them. The sign also serves to indicate the result, because in the fall the farmer collects what he sowed in the spring. How much strength and patience he put into his work during the summer, so much will be rewarded to him during the harvest. Therefore, the rune is considered the embodiment of harsh northern justice.

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