Gravestone monuments are permanent memorials that not only serve as the final resting places but also as a means of expressing the legacies and life of people through messages and symbols. Every word, symbol, emblem, engraving, and design that is etched into a headstone has a deeper meaning, usually illustrating cultural, individual, and religious beliefs.

Discovering these symbolic enigmas will give us the possibility to get to the depth of the complex cultural and personal stories that are hidden behind these huge and powerful memorial structures.

In this post, we will discover what these emblems and inscriptions that have been used on these memorials for many years mean.

• An American Flag

The American flag emblem is a symbol of bravery and honor. It is probably the most used inscription topping the tombstone of an American war soldier in the nation’s cemeteries.

• An Angel

Gravestones in the graveyard can be an image of spirituality because angels are found there. They stand before the burial chamber and are considered to be God’s messengers on earth.

The angel can be depicted in numerous postures, each of which with a specific symbol. An angel’s outspread wings are thought to indicate the immortal soul’s journey to heaven. It may also be angels who are shown holding the dead in their arms as if carrying or escorting them to paradise. A weeping angel suggests sorrow, especially after a death that was not expected. One of the figures may be an angel playing the trumpet, which symbolizes the day of judgment.

• Broken Column

A broken column represents a life cut short, a monument to someone who died young or in their prime, before reaching old age.

Some of the columns in the cemetery may be fractured owing to vandalism or damage, but many are purposely carved in broken shapes.

• Dove

The dove, which may be seen in both Jewish and Christian graves, represents resurrection, peace, and innocence.

A rising dove symbolizes the soul’s journey to paradise after death. A dove falling symbolizes a descent from heaven and the assurance of safe passage. A dove laying dead represents a life cut too short. If the dove is clutching an olive branch, it represents that the soul has achieved heavenly peace in paradise.

• Common Cross

The cross is a frequent Christian symbol, and it may be found on the gravestones of Christians. It represents Jesus Christ’s sacrifice and the prospect of eternal life.

• Hands: Pointing Fingers

A hand with the index finger pointing upward signifies the hope of heaven, but a hand with the forefinger pointing downward indicates God reaching down for the soul.

Hands engraved into gravestones are seen as a vital symbol of life, representing the deceased’s interactions with other humans as well as God. Cemetery hands are typically represented performing one of four things: clasping, blessing, paying, and pointing.

• Lion

Lions at the cemetery are frequently found perched on top of tombs and vaults, guarding the departed person’s final resting place. They also reflect the deceased’s courage, power, and strength.

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