Symbols of wisdom are signs you can place or call upon to grant discernment. They come in the form of animals, plants, and ancient emblems. Before you choose one, it’s important to ensure you know what you are calling upon.
17 Universal Symbols Of Wisdom
1. Mala Beads
Mala are prayer beads associated with clarity and wisdom. They are common in the Hindu faith in arts and education, similar to the rosary in the Catholic faith.
2. Biwa
Biwa is an ancient Japanese instrument representing wisdom. Benzaiten is a powerful god that played the Biwa, a type of lute.
3. Sapphire
Sapphire is the gem that symbolizes wisdom. It is given to those who need spiritual clarity, insight, and divine intervention.
4. Gyan Mudra
Gyan means wisdom in Sanskrit. It is a hand gesture you can use when you meditate to open yourself up to the truth.
5. Pen and Paper
Pen and paper or a quill is a universal symbol of wisdom. This came from the Egyptian god Thoth, who held the papyrus scroll and reed pen.
6. Lantern
Both oil lamps and candles represent wisdom. The ability to trap destructive fire, control it, and utilize it is seen as a wise path.
7. Capricorn
Capricorn represented Wisdom in Sumer. He fertilized the land and gave birth to civilization, coming in the form of a sea goat.
8. Athena
Athena is the goddess of wisdom. She is perhaps the wisest god in any lore, reigning over warfare and crafting.
9. Key
Keys represent wisdom as they can unlock things that nothing else can with minimal effort. This is a good representation of what wisdom is all about.
10. Walnut
Walnuts are signs of wisdom. They look like a human brain and can even enhance brain power when you eat them.
11. Scarecrow
Kuebiko is a Japanese god of knowledge and agriculture. Like the intelligent birds they scare off, the scarecrow represents intelligence and wisdom.
12. Ibis
Ibis is an Ancient Egyptian bird of wisdom. He accompanied Thoth and represents sacred wisdom to this day.
13. Lightbulb
Lightbulbs are used to signify an idea that comes from wisdom and knowledge. The best ideas in history were often coined by someone with unique wisdom rather than simply the educated.
14. Mountain
Mountains represent the wisdom of a higher power. Many peaks are used to represent specific deities and higher consciousness.
15. Mandala
The mandala is a strong Buddhist symbol used universally to represent wisdom and insight. It is placed on home decor such as rugs and floor pillows to ground the users while they meditate.
16. Blue
Blue is the color that symbolizes wisdom and knowledge. Grace and serenity are also blue, the four meanings coming together to represent spirituality, where wisdom reigns.
17. Bodhi Tree
The bodhi tree is a Buddhist symbol of wisdom. It is a sacred fig tree in Buddhism, “bodhi” meaning “awakening.” Wheat is also a plant that symbolizes prosperity and wisdom.
Flowers That Symbolize Wisdom
- Lotus – the ultimate flower of wisdom represents the journey to enlightenment.
- Juniper – these flowers sprout in groups and can adapt to most climates
- Aster – this wildflower represents the tears of the goddess Astraea in Greek mythology, a symbol of purity and wisdom
Animal Wisdom Symbols
- Owl – the bird represents wisdom in the highest power. Athena often had an owl on her shoulder, which is where this symbolism began
- Spider – the arachnid symbolizes Anasi, a spider god representing knowledge and wisdom
- Raven – Odin had ravens who brought him news each night due to their wisdom and intelligence
- Dolphin – these smart animals represent loyalty, peace, and wisdom
- Elephant – a rare symbol of wisdom with the largest land animal brain, capable of great memory