SCORPION

The symbol of the white dove and the olive branch has its genesis in the biblical story of Noah's Arch. After the flood, the dove returns to the Arch with an olive branch indicating that the flood was over and a new beginning was at hand. So, the symbol of the white dove along with an olive branch has its origins in Christian story telling. However, the use of the symbol of the olive branch within that story already had prior significance in history, since it was the early Roman symbol for peace. From this, we can understand why it was carried by the dove and its reason for incorporation into the story. After all this time, the symbols of the white dove and olive branch have become integrated into our cultural system so that they automatically become one of the most widely recognised symbols for peace. The likely reason for this is most probably due, to a large degree, to the spread of Christian based education across the globe over the centuries. However, the symbol has varied over time. We often see, perhaps to promote a more secular tone, the white dove without the olive branch in logos of various organisations. Its popularity of use rests largely on the fact that it is has an immediately recognisable meaning, making it an effective and powerful symbol.

Whether symbols are sacred or mundane, they make up a significant part of any cultural fabric. They have the power to transform a concept into a reality, to speak without words and to effect emotional responses from us. Understanding the meaning behind symbolic behaviour and symbols themselves allows us great insight into our world and what we deem important and valuable.

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