Symbols of Love
The Deeper Meaning of Loving Gifts and Rituals
More than just a sexual act, love takes many forms. A powerful emotion, love can bind people together both spiritually and physically, fulfilling the needs of the individual and society.
Valentine's Day
This day of celebration of love was originally claimed as “the birds' wedding day” according to Miranda Bruce-Mitford in her text, The Illustrated Book of Signs and Symbols. It was believed that birds would select their mates on this day. This festival of love was soon extended to people, and the first valentine card was exchanged in the 16th century. Today, February 14th is synonymous with the declaration of and expressions of love.
In modern times Valentine's Day involves more than just the exchanging of cards. To supplement their expression of love, people often give their sweetheart meaningfully felt gifts. The following are common favorites:
- Red Roses: Used as a message of red roses are associated with the goddess Venus and are therefore powerful symbols of love and beauty.
- Chocolates: The food of love. Chocolate is believed to have aphrodisiac qualities.
- Heart-Shaped Lockets: Usually a of friendship rather than passion. Modern trends suggest the gift of a pendant rather than a locket.
Marriage
Every society and culture has its own rituals for marriage, therefore many objects and symbols are associated with it. In early times, marriage was not linked with love; rather it was performed as a part of the formalizing of a contract between families. In present day (particularly in western cultures), one cannot imagine marriage without love and so all the symbols that have come to be associated with marriage are now too associated with binding love. For example:
- Rings: It is thought the giving an engagement ring is a practice done since Roman times. The giving of a diamond ring for the occasion is more recent and dates from the 15th century, it denotes faithfulness. The traditionally plain gold band of a wedding ring, symbolizes eternity.
- Blessings: Now frowned upon environmentally speaking, the practice of throwing confetti or rice at a newly wedded couple symbolizes the bestowing of fertility on the couple and that they may be blessed with multiple children. Red and white rose petals are also be thrown and scattered to represent the passion and purity of love.
Other Symbols of Love
- White Turtle Dove – love and fidelity.
- Forget-me-nots (flowers) – yearning
- Winged Heart – double image combining the wings of cupid with a heat of love.
- Red Lips – sexual attraction. i.e Venus/ Aphrodite – goddess of love
It has been said that love is an enigma and must be deciphered. But with thought and consideration the secret language of love and its symbols can be used to reinforce the intent and meaning of your valentine gift.
Reference: Bruce-Mitford, Miranda. The Illustrated Book of Signs and Symbols. London. Dorling Kindersley Ltd. 1996.
Cupid, Son of Venus
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