Symbols of war can represent a healthy conflict. They can be used to overcome internal battles or to fight for what is right. They can also help control anger and unnecessary conflict within yourself. This is because war is a broader concept than you may think.
What is War?
War is a type of conflict, usually armed, between two different groups. The point of warfare is to gain something from the other nation.
This could be land, freedom from oppression, or to resolve a difference, and is considered traditional warfare. There are also other types of war that do not involve weapons.
There is psychological warfare that involves propaganda and politics. Then, of course, the war between good and evil is enforced in many religions.
Finally, the war with yourself involves you fighting against yourself via self-sabotage, the blame game, and identity crisis.
Which Color Symbolizes War?
Red is the color of war due to the bloodshed it represents. The color also represents passion, anger, power, and danger. All of these are aspects of war, which deepen the connection between conflict and the color red.
Flowers That Symbolize War
- Black-eyed Susan – represents war brought on by a desire for justice
- Crab Blossom – represents needless war
- Nasturtium – stands for victory in battle
- Tansy – a declaration of war
- Hyssop – stands for the sacrifices of war
- Orange Lily – represents the hatred of war
- Dill – stands for fighting against evil
Crystals That Symbolize War
- Agate – grants warrior’s strength
- Lapis Lazuli – for healing conflicts
- Smoky Quartz – another stone for warriors
- Rose Quartz – strengthens bonds during war
Tree That Symbolizes War
The peach tree is considered a tree of war. This is due to the Peach Tree War of the 1600s. The name came from the tale that a Dutch settler had allegedly killed a native woman for stealing a peach, which may or may not have started the war.
Observation trees are connected to war as well. They were fake trees used to allow soldiers during WWI to hideout behind enemy lines.
Animal War Symbols
- Boar – a Celtic animal of war
- Bees – represent an alliance and the power in numbers during war
- Bear – another strong animal that represents war, even being used during WWII
- Elephants – one of the oldest animals of war, taken to the frontlines for thousands of years
Symbols of War in Different Cultures
Native American
Native Americans have always done what they could to protect their tribes. If this meant going to war, then so be it.
Most tribes trained their young to fight if necessary. Of course, other tribes were strictly Pacificists, which is something many tribes still practice.
Greek
Greeks had some of the first wars in history. They called war “a necessary evil of the human condition.” It was the Spartan army that inspired every other country to build a strong army to rival the Spartans.
Norse
The Vikings were expert riders and soldiers. They were known for their warriors, but they were unlikely the savage beasts they are often seen as.
Egyptian
Egyptians often saw war from a religious point of view. They believed that conquering their enemies was approved by their gods. This has been depicted in engravings dating back 5000 years ago.
Christian
In Christianity, the war between good and evil is usually a focus rather than a physical war. This is likely due to many Biblical scripts leading back to “thou shalt not kill.”
Buddhist
In Buddhism, war is usually strongly discouraged. The further back you go, the stronger the flag for pacifism is in Buddhism texts. They believe in compassion for every victim of war, no matter who they fight for.
War Symbolism in Literature
War is a common trend in literature used to represent internal and external conflict. It has been a subject of literature for thousands of years. War novels have been popular since Homer’s time and have been trending since.
People often see war novels as relatable adventures, sometimes ending in heartache and other times ending in victory. But no matter what happens, there will always be a loss that one can connect to when reading about war in literature.
10 Symbols of War
1. Z
Z is a symbol of war in many countries, though it has recently been used by Russia, where it was painted on Russian tanks. The Z is meant to mean “for victory.”
2. Horus
Horus is an Egyptian god of war. He is best known for his eye, which watches over its enemies like a falcon, the animal that Horus is represented by.
3. Arrow
The arrow is a common symbol of war. It is one of the oldest weapons in history, with two arrows, in particular, referencing war. If the arrow is pointing down, it represents peace.
4. Shanka
Shanka is a trumpet used in Hindu rituals. It is similar to a war horn used as a battle cry to warn allies of incoming attacks.
5. War Horseman
The Horseman of War of the apocalypse rides a red horse. He signifies war that is about to begin and is sometimes said to cause wars when he enters.
6. Xochiyáoyotl
Xochiyáoyotl is an Aztec symbol of war. It was used by the Aztecs to represent a war that has a purpose and is less fatal than the typical war and a type of war that one would be proud do die in.
7. Mjölnir
Mjölnir is Thor’s hammer, which has been popularized by the MCU. It was owned by the god of war, Thor, in Norse mythology, which is where it gets its meaning.
8. Achilles’ Shield
Achilles’ Shield is a Greek symbol of war. While Achilles’ Heel represents weakness, his shield represents war, specifically dominance, and superiority during conflict.
9. Mitsu Tomoe
Mitsu Tomoe is a Japanese symbol of war. It is connected to Shintoism and was worshipped by many at one point. The picture is meant to have three heads of heaven, earth, and the underworld.
10. Akoben
Akoben is a war horn of African origins. It represents an incoming war and was often used as a warning when wars approached. It encourages us to remain vigilant and ready every moment.