#cultural symbolism

[sapphiresaphics]

^^^———

Yeah, well, I wanted Viktor to don a half mask and haunt an opera house while singing “music of the night” but it didn’t happen.

Like… you guys GET that this is symbolism and references to famous TRAGEDIES, right?

Please tell me you guys understand this concept…

And like… Jinx DOES become a symbol for the revolution? Like that’s part of her ARC in the story and the ONLY REASON Zaun comes to help in the final battle is because SHE joined in. You still got your revolution. You still saw her processing being part of the revolution even if she didn’t want to be a part of it at first.

Like seriously? You’re mad they referenced Les Miserable in the intro and you didn’t get her waiving a flag in the show?

wtf is wrong with you guys?

[morerichka]

One day I was walking in the woods near my house on my routine route and you know what? I found this symbol neatly laid out of branches, stones and leaves right in the middle of the road. Do you think it is an art object or some kind of spell?

Of course, with my strong belief in mysticism, I did not set foot on this work of art, but my curiosity does not let me rest. What are your thoughts on this?

[free-luigi]

Okay so still not sure if this is his actual X account, but considering he’s become a caricature of himself due to recent events… lmao wouldn’t surprise me.

[omegaphilosophia]

The Philosophy of the Cat

The philosophy of the cat is a playful and contemplative exploration of feline behavior, cognition, and their role in human life and culture. While cats do not engage in philosophical inquiry in the same way humans do, their enigmatic nature and unique characteristics have inspired philosophical reflections on various aspects of existence. Here are some key themes and perspectives within the philosophy of the cat:

Independence and Autonomy: Cats are often celebrated for their independence and self-sufficiency. Philosophical discussions on cat behavior may delve into the nature of autonomy and the balance between freedom and interdependence in human-animal relationships.

Hedonism and Enjoyment of Life: Cats are known for their love of leisure, play, and relaxation. Philosophical interpretations of cat behavior may emphasize the pursuit of pleasure, the importance of enjoying the present moment, and the value of simplicity and contentment.

Intuition and Instinct: Cats exhibit keen senses, intuition, and instincts that guide their actions and interactions with the world. Philosophical reflections on feline cognition may explore the nature of intuition, animal consciousness, and the limits of human understanding.

Mystery and Elusiveness: Cats possess an aura of mystery and unpredictability that has captivated human imagination for centuries. Philosophical musings on the enigmatic nature of cats may touch upon themes of uncertainty, ambiguity, and the unknowable aspects of existence.

Aesthetic Appreciation: Cats are admired for their grace, elegance, and beauty. Philosophical discussions on the philosophy of aesthetics may contemplate the aesthetic value of cats, the perception of beauty in nature, and the role of aesthetics in shaping human perceptions of the world.

Symbolism and Cultural Significance: Cats have held symbolic significance in various cultures and mythologies throughout history. Philosophical inquiries into the symbolism of cats may explore themes of mysticism, spirituality, and the symbolic meanings attributed to animals in human culture.

Coexistence and Interconnectedness: Cats share a symbiotic relationship with humans, often serving as companions, protectors, or sources of comfort. Philosophical reflections on the human-cat bond may touch upon themes of coexistence, interspecies communication, and the ethical responsibilities of pet ownership.

Adaptability and Resilience: Cats are highly adaptable creatures capable of thriving in diverse environments. Philosophical discussions on cat resilience may examine the concept of resilience, coping mechanisms in the face of adversity, and the capacity for growth and transformation.

In summary, the philosophy of the cat offers a lighthearted and contemplative exploration of the multifaceted nature of feline existence. While cats may not engage in philosophical inquiry in the traditional sense, their presence and behavior inspire reflections on autonomy, enjoyment of life, intuition, mystery, aesthetics, symbolism, coexistence, resilience, and more.

[platon200kl]

Concept art #1

[shotofstress]

Is telling when some white ppl say "We have culture" and then proceed to speak about consumerism, their household traditions or of drinking chocolate milk, talking to ppl (no joking, literally someone said that), and singing at the bar.

No traditional art, no songs with cultural meaning, no games, no traditional clothing nor traditional food, no dances and traditional music, no shared pain, no historic joys nor wounds, no stories, legends nor mythology, no vestige of anything older than 100 years, no indigenous roots, etc.

That's how you usually know that this white ppl will threat other white ppl as "exotic" or other terrible way like that for having culture, like when the British Empire created the concept of "Near East" among others and all that bc they couldn't deal with people that looked like them (and yet "not enough", they do, and they don't too, you know), but were at the same time "too similar" to the uncivilised non-white people.

This reminds me too how some usa and british ppl (thus the media they produce and affects the ppl that consume it too) sees scottish, irish and welsh ppl as magic half faeries coming from the "untamed lands of the north" or even as "good uncivilised". Not forgetting how some time ago I saw a ton of irish people being tired of the fetichization of Hozier at hands of some of his fans and speak about how this is terrible common and how they are portrayed in media. I'm not even begin with "vikings", the whole fascism surrounding that and the victorians lying time and time again and the adoption of that fantasy fic as truth, and giving a shit about colonialism and the indigenous ppl still being displaced and killed while cosplayers of the show vikings see themselves as children of wotan.

Fuck up that ppl prefer to lie and/or adopt consumerism, capitalism and upper class lifestyles as culture than admit how colonialism and capitalism don't gives them the culture that they see the groups they hate have nor will they care about the people they invaded and still invaded, nor care about the indigenous people of the territories they occupied.

[thelampandshield]

Romanticizing the Crusades: the legacy of a 19th century nationalist art movement lives on in contemporary hate group iconography

Knights, from Battle of Ascalon, 18 November 1177 by Charles-Philippe Larivière

Charles-Philippe Larivière’s Knights, from Battle of Ascalon, 18 November 1177 is a quintessential example of 19th-century romanticism applied to the Crusades. Commissioned for the Galerie des Batailles in the Palace of Versailles, the painting commemorates the victory of Crusaders under Baldwin IV, the "Leper King" of Jerusalem, against Saladin’s forces. The Battle of Ascalon was a pivotal victory for the Crusaders, showcasing the leadership of Baldwin IV, a king admired for his courage despite suffering from leprosy. Larivière’s depiction of the battle draws on this narrative of perseverance and divine favor, portraying the knights in heroic light.

Larivière’s vivid depictions of Crusader knights, with dramatic lighting and dynamic compositions, appealed to audiences captivated by the romance of medieval warfare and Christian triumphalism. His prolific work in this genre well represents the Romantic Movement, which glorified the Middle Ages as a time of chivalry and noble ideals during a revival of conservative religious fervor and nationalism in 19th century Europe. 

Commissioned by Louis-Philippe to reinforce France’s historical legacy, Larivière’s art served as a tool of national pride, tying France’s identity to the heroic traditions of medieval Europe. Larivière’s work appealed to both aristocratic nostalgia, who saw in them a reflection of their own noble heritage, reinforcing their current social status, and the wider public, who embraced the Crusades as symbols of Christian unity and cultural triumph..  

The Appropriation of Crusades Imagery in Modern White Ethno-Nationalism

Crusades imagery, historically tied to Christian military campaigns in the Middle Ages, has become a powerful symbol co-opted by modern white ethno-nationalist groups. These groups appropriate symbols like the Jerusalem Cross, Knights Templar insignias, and phrases such as Deus Vult (“God wills it”) to construct a mythos of divine approval for their ideological battles. This recontextualization of medieval Christian iconography reflects their perception of themselves as militant defenders of a "besieged" Western civilization, aligning their cause with the historic struggle of Christendom against external threats.

Several contemporary white supremacist groups identified by the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) have appropriated Christian iconography, particularly symbols and phrases associated with the Crusades, to advance their ideologies. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) maintains a database of symbols and iconography used by these groups. 

Popular Crusades Imagery

1. Jerusalem Cross

Description: Also known as the Crusader Cross, this symbol features a large central cross surrounded by four smaller crosses. Historically, it represented the Crusader Kingdom of Jerusalem and the spread of Christianity.

Modern Appropriation: White nationalist groups use the Jerusalem Cross to signify their self-proclaimed mission to protect Western culture, portraying themselves as heirs to the medieval Crusaders.

2. Knights Templar Insignia

Description: The red cross on a white background, historically worn by members of the Knights Templar, symbolized religious purity and sacrifice.

Modern Appropriation: Extremist groups adopt Templar symbols to evoke a sense of militant religiosity and purpose, drawing parallels between their ideologies and the Knights’ historical role as protectors of Christianity.

3. Maltese Cross

Description: A cross with eight points, associated with the Knights Hospitaller and their service during the Crusades.

Modern Appropriation: Frequently seen in neo-Crusader and alt-right propaganda, the Maltese Cross has become a badge of resistance for groups claiming to uphold Christian and Western values.

4. Deus Vult ("God wills it")

Description: This Latin phrase served as the rallying cry for Crusaders embarking on military campaigns to reclaim the Holy Land.

Modern Appropriation: White nationalist groups use Deus Vult as a slogan to justify their ideological and cultural campaigns, framing their efforts as a divinely mandated struggle.

Resonance with Militarization in White Ethno-Nationalism

Historical Context

During the Crusades (11th–13th centuries), Christian military campaigns were framed as acts of divine warfare, protecting the faith against perceived existential threats. These campaigns were justified through religious rhetoric, promising spiritual rewards for those who fought. The imagery of the Crusades has long been tied to notions of conquest, sacrifice, and the defense of Christendom, making it an attractive historical parallel for contemporary groups seeking to militarize their ideologies.

Modern Appropriation

Contemporary white ethno-nationalist groups adopt Crusades imagery to:

Frame Their Cause as Righteous Warfare:

By invoking symbols of divine warfare, these groups align their ideologies with a perceived holy mission, casting themselves as defenders of Christianity and Western civilization against modern “invaders” (e.g., immigrants, Muslims, or people of color).

Romanticize a Mythic Past:

The Crusades are idealized as a golden era of religious and cultural purity, ignoring the historical complexities and atrocities of those campaigns. This romanticization feeds into their broader narrative of reclaiming a "lost" heritage.

Legitimize Violence:

The use of militaristic imagery helps normalize the idea of conflict as a necessary means to protect their vision of society. Phrases like Deus Vult imply divine approval for actions ranging from cultural exclusion to physical violence.

Psychological Appeal

The militarization of these symbols resonates deeply with how these groups perceive themselves:

Victimhood and Siege Mentality:

Many white ethno-nationalists view themselves as under siege, akin to medieval Crusaders defending Christendom against external threats.

Identity and Belonging:

The use of Crusades imagery provides a shared cultural and symbolic language, fostering group identity and cohesion.

Divine Justification:

The invocation of religious symbols and language reinforces the belief that their cause is morally superior and divinely mandated.

Understanding this appropriation is critical to countering the narratives that exploit religious symbols for hate. By reclaiming these symbols and emphasizing their true meanings—rooted in faith, sacrifice, and spiritual transformation—faith communities and historians can challenge the distortion of history and resist the appropriation of Christian identity for divisive and destructive ends.

[vinnylignes]

"Alright" by Kendrick Lamar- A Culture Change

Few songs in the canon of hip-hop's socially aware songs have the same cultural and political significance as Kendrick Lamar's hit song "Alright" from To Pimp a Butterfly. The song, which was released in 2015, swiftly went beyond its musical origins to serve as a rallying cry for the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement. "Alright" captures the anguish and optimism of the Black experience in America with its eerily optimistic chorus, potent lyrics, and vibrant sound. "Alright" is more than simply a song; it is a cultural relic that addresses structural injustice, the lasting strength of fortitude, and the need for optimism in the struggle for equality.

A Soundtrack for Resilience

"Alright" is really about surviving. Its first words, "Alls my life, I has to fight," trace a legacy of tenacity in the face of institutionalized injustice and mirror the hardships endured by generations of African Americans. These lyrics establish a motif that runs throughout To Pimp a Butterfly: a song that strikes a balance between defiance and sadness. The joyful chorus of the song, "We gon' be alright," acts as a reminder that surviving is a kind of resistance and a motto for tenacity.

The song's resonance was enhanced by the date of its release. The killings of Michael Brown, Eric Garner, and Tamir Rice were among the high-profile instances of police brutality that occurred in the mid-2010s and rekindled national discussions about racial injustice. During protests in American cities, the chorus of "Alright" was chanted by demonstrators who were marching against police brutality. For activists who were struggling with the effects of institutional racism, Lamar's message of optimism served as an emotional lift.

"Alright" and the Black Lives Matter Movement

The Black Lives Matter movement gave "Alright" its most notable cultural footing, turning it into a musical representation of resiliency. By the time "Alright" was published, the movement, which started in 2013 following George Zimmerman's acquittal in the murder of Trayvon Martin, had become a significant force. "Alright" provided a counterpoint to the persistent sadness and wrath of communities impacted by police violence, which frequently served as the focal point of BLM rallies. Its upbeat melody served as a reminder to demonstrators that anger and optimism could coexist and that fighting for justice could be both draining and motivating.

In one especially noteworthy instance, demonstrators in Cleveland attempted to disperse the crowd and then sung the chorus of "Alright." In these situations, the song's message of survival and togetherness struck a deep chord, turning it from a personal hymn into a statement of the group.

As essential to "Alright's" effect as its words is its production. Pharrell Williams and Sounwave produced the song, which balances its weighty subject matter with a catchy tune, jazzy trumpets, and rhythmic percussion. While Lamar's flow veers between frantic and introspective, representing the song's dichotomy of despair and optimism, Pharrell's production gives the song a lively vitality.

Lamar traverses a complicated emotional terrain in his lyrics. He understands his personal problems and institutional injustice, but he does not allow them to define who he is. The cyclical nature of tyranny is captured in lines like "Wouldn't you know / We been hurt, been down before," and the chorus "We gon' be alright" acts as a vow of survival. The song's impact lies in this tension between strength and vulnerability, which enables it to speak to people on a personal and a societal level.

The Visuals: Amplifying the Message

The Little Homies and Colin Tilley's music video for "Alright" reinforces the song's standing as a cultural relic. The black-and-white film, which features scenes of police brutality alongside Lamar hovering above the city as a metaphor of spiritual transcendence, contrasts moments of beauty and savagery. In a particularly powerful moment, Lamar gets shot by a policeman and drops from the sky with a calm face. The images emphasize both the adversity of Black existence in America and the fortitude required to persevere.

The bizarre and metaphorical aspects of the video highlight the conflict between individual transcendence and social subjugation, echoing the themes of To Pimp a Butterfly as a whole. The music video transforms "Alright" from a song into an emotional artistic statement by fusing forceful lyrics with eye-catching imagery.

A Legacy of Protest Music

Following in the footsteps of songs like Marvin Gaye's "What's Going On," Sam Cooke's "A Change is Gonna Come," and Billie Holiday's "Strange Fruit," "Alright" is part of a long legacy of protest music in the Black community. Each of these songs uses music as a vehicle for social criticism and group healing, capturing a particular point in the continuous struggle for racial justice.

The duality of "Alright" is what distinguishes it; it offers optimism as a means of resistance while acknowledging suffering without giving in to it. As a timeless hymn for resiliency and a historical monument of the BLM period, this balance has allowed the song to remain relevant.

Critiques and Controversies

Despite being generally praised, "Alright" has generated some controversy. Critics contend that by providing a positive theme that might not accurately represent the lived reality of many, it runs the risk of oversimplifying the systematic basis of racism. Furthermore, some have critiqued the song's usage at rallies as performative, raising doubts about whether shouting "We gon' be alright" actually results in meaningful action.

However, these criticisms ignore how music can motivate and uphold movements. Bell Hooks, a scholar, points out that cultural objects like music may operate as "a catalyst for critical thinking," inspiring individuals to envision novel approaches to justice. Within this paradigm, "Alright" encourages introspection as well as action.

The influence of "Alright" is not limited to the US. It is a global song for social justice because its themes of resiliency and structural injustice speak to underprivileged groups everywhere. The song has gained a global audience, highlighting the connections between campaigns for equality, from anti-racism marches in Europe to protests against police brutality in Brazil.

The song's appeal is further increased by Lamar's widespread praise. His work as a Pulitzer Prize-winning artist goes beyond hip-hop, making him a global spokesperson for creative quality and social justice.A cultural staple that encapsulates the complexity of the Black experience in America, "Alright" is more than just a protest song. Its ongoing significance attests to the ability of music to uplift, heal, and inspire. "Alright" will continue to play a significant role in the cultural discourse for many years to come because of Kendrick Lamar's unique fusion of lyrical genius, explosive production, and visual narrative."Alright" conveys a straightforward yet impactful message in the midst of institutional racism and social division: optimism is a radical act, and perseverance is resistance. Those four words, "We gon' be alright," are a promise and a call to action for a generation that is fighting for justice and equality.

[rimosdesigns]

Spicy Spirit - Chili Pepper Harvest Mask

This design represents the powerful connection between humanity and the natural elements, particularly focusing on the chili pepper—an enduring symbol of heat, flavor, and transformation. The mask, crafted from peppers, foliage, and spices, reflects the cultural significance of chili peppers in culinary traditions around the world. It serves as a reminder of how this small but mighty fruit has shaped cuisine, rituals, and even medicine. The use of natural colors and intricate details also symbolizes the vibrant energy and diversity found in nature, reminding us of the fiery, life-giving qualities that plants bring into our lives.

[saraichinwag]

Why Are Pumpkins Associated with Halloween?

[thespiritualparrot]

Lizard Spiritual Meanings & Secrets

Welcome to a fascinating journey exploring the lizard spiritual meanings! These intriguing reptiles have captivated the human imagination for centuries, weaving their way through various cultures and spiritual beliefs. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve deep into the world of lizard symbolism, unearthing the diverse interpretations and significance these creatures hold in different…

[pre-jail-denis]

sleep diary but it's just things my brain sees when I wake up in the middle of the night #1

today's thing: a comically long rat?

[blaybear]

Bear Symbol

[free-luigi]

Remember in Death Note how Kira became a symbol?

Luigi has become a symbol. He has massive online public support despite his “crime” being considered “wrong” by some (aka the elite and their loyalists).

He is being called a hero by the many and his support is growing.

Any day now we’ll be hearing about the Church of Saint Luigi.

[wintersnwnderlnd]

anyone have any tips for connecting with your culture when you didn't grow up with it. I'm 5th generation sicilian/Scandinavian on my dads side and 4th generation irish/celtic on my moms side. My dad grew up with very little cultural influence from high great-grandmother and same for my mom from her grandpa. But i feel really connected to both like im supposed to know that culture. Any tips to reconnect with it?

[captaingimpy]

The Interconnected Roots of Philosophy: Reclaiming a Global Intellectual Tradition

Philosophy, at its best, is a collaborative and evolving enterprise. Yet, much of how philosophy has been taught and discussed in modern academia reflects a narrow and exclusionary narrative. The dominant story centers on Greece as the singular fountainhead of Western philosophy, conveniently ignoring the global and interconnected roots that shaped even the earliest Greek thinkers. This…