A Rational Critique On The Power of Symbols and Their Idolization.
An impartial analysis on the impact of symbolism on the human psyche
An essay By Don Via Jr, conceptualized Jan. 19th, 2021
The nature of sacred symbols are entirely subjective to the perspective of the individual. Nothing holds a universal reverence, nor should it. Symbols, idols, insignia and the like are contrived and assigned significance arbitrarily. A crucifix to an atheist may only be as meaningful as any other bit of lumber. To devout Norse pagans the Mjolnir is a symbol of divine protection, whereas to the non-religious it's only prestige is derived from comic books.
The same sigil can be seen by different people as both benevolent or malevolent. Superb, or benign. Realistically, religious texts and legislative documents are ultimately nothing more but ink and paper. Statues merely hunks of metal and concrete. Flags and anthems simply cloth and song. These things are all abstract and only hold the meanings that we attribute to them on an independent basis.
Reverence attached to "sacred symbols" is the result of sentimentality fostered by emotional attachment that negates pragmatism and causes those that idolize these symbols to view them as extraordinary.
On the one hand this assertion can be viewed as an over-simplification, on the other, as practical. In any case we are all subjected to it in one way or another.
Historically, instilled allegiance in these supposedly sacred symbols are more often than not exploited by the ruling class to foster tribalisms and perpetuate divide. But these attitudes can also arise naturally amidst an adverage citizenry that has allowed themselves to become too enamored by arbitrary constructs. Religious fervor that has allowed itself to become obstreperous instigates cultural sectarianism. Political chauvinism has a tendency to quickly devolve into the worst of collectivist ideation.
In a way it is a habit that plays into mankind's basic psychology as pack animals. The natural inclination of group conformity. Religion and politics are but the two greatest examples, but we see the same instances occur on various levels of society, such as with gang culture. A microcosm reflecting the macrocosm. All adherent to inherit groupthink and the need to conceptually differentiate our ideas.
It is for these same reasons that the usage of symbolism within the realms of the occult and esoteric as a means of subconsciously influencing the minds of persons is a prevailing practice.
Societies ascribe certain meanings to specific symbols and thus those symbols, via their assigned meaning garner influence. And yet many fail to realize they possess the same capability of revoking or altering a symbols meaning upon themselves as an individual and with it, its influence.
A prevailing example being the swastika. In the west, still primarily recognized as symbolizing hatred and atrocity. While in eastern cultures retaining its ancient spiritual prominence.
The use of symbols is simply a means of mankind to represent a set of ideas. By the very nature of free will, no idea is accepted invariably.
The reverence of symbols is not innately problematic, but has a tendency to become so when a people allow their idolization to become overzealous, bordering on fanaticism.
So this is not to say that the power of symbolism should be under appreciated; nor the usage of symbolism abolished; but rather, understood that they only possess as much power and meaning as we allow them to have when we attach emotion to it. And only on an individual basis.
Instead of focusing on subjectivity focus should be placed more on objectivity. If holding on to a symbol brings you comfort then by all means you should, as do I. But rather than insisting on instilling unquestioned reverence in something that is ultimately trivial in the grand scheme of things — we should first prioritize instilling reverence in tangible concepts such as honor, decency, compassion, morality, truth, and justice. Regardless of whatever symbol those concepts may or may not fall under.