Symbols of brotherhood will connect you with others in the form of camaraderie. Many of them have been around for thousands of years, bonding brothers, nations, tribes, and more. Before you dive into your favorite symbols of the deep connection, it’s good practice to learn about the foundations of brotherhood.
What is Brotherhood?
Brotherhood is a type of camaraderie and loyalty between two or more individuals. More often than not, brotherhood is an unspoken fellowship between non-blood brothers. They can be brothers in Christ, in humanity, or in a treaty working toward the same cause.
There is usually a common interest between brothers that connects them and gives them a feeling of kinship despite them coming from different backgrounds.
In these instances, the majority (if not all) of the participants identify as male, hence the root word “brother.” The counterpart to brotherhood is sisterhood.
Which Color Symbolizes Brotherhood?
Red is the color of brotherhood because of the blood bonds once used to signify a brotherhood connection. These oaths were made to strengthen the connection between individuals.
The color red symbolizes brotherhood because it also symbolizes the key foundations of brotherhood – love, strength, and kinship (blood-linked).
Flowers That Symbolize Brotherhood
- Baby’s Breath – represents the bond between brothers and sisters
- Yellow Tulips – a flower that represents the soft side of brotherhood
- Gerbera – deep red like the color of brotherhood
- Sunflower – a strong flower that represents always seeing the best in brothers
- Orchids – as elegant and classy as the history of brotherhood
Crystals That Symbolize Brotherhood
- Rhodonite – represents bonds and goodwill toward men
- Jasper – a red stone that represents strength and bonds
- Citrine – heals family wounds
- Bull’s Eye – a crude stone that builds up courage
- Black Tourmaline -stands for protection and removal of unwanted negativity
Tree That Symbolizes Brotherhood
The Brotherhood Tree is a symbol located in the Trees of Mystery. It is one of the largest living trees in the world at almost 300 feet tall and 20 feet wide. It is named after the hope for the brotherhood of man and is over 2000 years old.
The motto for the tree is “Brotherhood of Man – all races, creeds, and colors.” The gorgeous tree is available for viewing and special climbing options, often done with brothers looking for adventure and an opportunity to bond.
Animal Brotherhood Symbols
- Wolf – the classic pack animal and symbol of a strong bond
- Cheetah – the fast cat is considered a symbol of brotherhood as it is believed male cheetahs help each other hunt
- Lion – a symbol of loyalty to your brotherhood
- Prairie Dog – they live together in a brotherhood of sorts, much like meerkats
- African Wild Dog – a type of wild brotherhood that may attract many interested in such a kinship
10 Symbols of Brotherhood
1. Celtic Symbols of Brotherhood
Celtic symbols of brotherhood are common in the Celtic culture. This is because bonds and relationships are important, giving many Celtic symbols a basis in brotherhood.
- Triskelion – represents three worlds and how we are all connected within them
- Tree of Life – a strong tree in the Celtic culture that represents the roots that connect us all
- Serch Bythol – means everlasting love and unbreakable bonds
- Dara Knot – represents the oak tree and how it is as strong and resilient as brotherhood
2. Salt – Hebrew and Arab
Salt is a symbol of brotherhood in ancient cultures. It is associated with purity and fidelity as well as death. In Arab countries, it unites people against war and distress. While in Hebrew culture, it is used to purify newborns and bonds them to humanity. But perhaps the strongest bond of salt came later when it was used to signify brotherhood with the phrase, “Friendship is a salt bond.”
3. Masonic Trowel – European
The masonic trowel is a common symbol of brotherhood. It is a tool for the brickwork that was once used as a symbol used to unite all members of the masonry community. This symbolism has been around since the Middle Ages when the Freemasonry fraternity began.
4. Skull and Bones – American
Skulls and bones are a symbol of brotherhood that was first connected to the cause at Yale. The symbol existed before this, but it became a symbol of brotherhood in 1830 at Yale University, which later invited many former U.S. presidents into the brotherhood.
5. Blood – Universal
Blood is one of the most popular symbols of brotherhood. The phrase “blood is thicker than water” means that family is more important than other relationships. However, family can also be chosen rather than just what you are born into.
6. Native American Brotherhood
Native American brotherhood was important within tribes and between tribes. A few key symbols explain what brotherhood means to Native Americans.
- Brotherhood Symbol – depicted as two men standing together, connected. It shows loyalty and equality between men
- Nakwach – a Hopi symbol that is simple and effective. It represents the peaceful people that form brotherhoods
7. Shield and Sword – Medieval
The shield and sword are a symbol of camaraderie and chivalry. It was used in the Middle Ages to show loyalty to one’s nation and brothers. It represents the devotion to protecting equals rather than just those you consider weaker than yourself.
8. Gemini – Greece
Gemini is a symbol of brotherhood that begins in ancient Greece. One of the first symbols of Gemini was Castor and Pollux, two brothers, one mortal and the other divine immortal.
9. Handshake – Universal
The handshake is a widely recognized symbol of brotherhood. It was originally used to show trustworthiness as it was easy to check for weapons whenever you were shaking hands. Today, it is a simple way to greet someone and let them know you come in peace.
10. Valknut – Norse
The Valknut is a Viking symbol of brotherhood. It is called the knot of the slain and is considered one of Odin’s symbols. The symbol is meant to connect those who have fallen in battle to those living by carrying on their legacy.