Grave Symbols and Their Meanings
The construction of monuments is primarily driven by emotions and a longing to remember. Unfortunately, many of the decorations on today’s monuments lack personal connection to the person being honored or emotional appeal to the bereaved - But it doesn’t have to be this way. By understanding grave symbols and their meanings, we can create a meaningful, symbolic monument. A truly significant monument is one that portrays emotion.
Grave symbols can function in two ways:
A grave symbol can express a family’s overwhelming emotional response to their loved one’s passing.
A grave symbol can provide insight into the values and personality of the deceased.
What are the most common grave symbols?
Cross
The cross represents the Christian faith and hope of the return of Christ.
Angel
The Angel represents a protection and guidance.
Dove
The dove is a symbol of peace and the Holy Spirit
Rose
The traditional cultivated rose is the flower of venus, goddess of love, and indicative of Heavenly Joy.
Praying Hands
The praying hands represent prayer, submission, and obedience to God.
Grave Symbols derived from nature
Wild Rose
The wild rose is a symbol of love and the love of our Lord.
Tree
The tree symbolizes life, growth, and family.
Dogwood Flower
The dogwood flower is the symbol of regeneration - divine sacrifice and triumph of eternal life.
Calla Lily
The calla lily symbolizes majestic beauty and marriage.
Grape and Vine
The grape and vine is a symbol of our Lord and his followers, the church and unity.
Ivy
Ivy is closely identified with death and immortality. It is a symbol of fidelity, eternal life, and undying affection.
Morning Glory
Morning glory represents resurrection, morning, youth, and bonds of love.
Oak Leaf
The oak leaf is the symbol of strength, faith and virtue.
Thistle
Thistle represents Scotland and is a symbol of earthly sorrow.
Acanthus
Acanthus is the symbol of heavenly gardens.
Laurel
Laurel represents triumph, eternity, and chastity. Reward and victory.
Butterfly
The butterfly is the symbol of transformation or rebirth.
Dragonfly
The dragonfly is the symbol of change and self-realization.
Lion
The lion represents courage and strength.
Star
The star represents guidance and hope.
Feather
A feather represents the journey of the soul.
Other Common Grave Symbols
Heart
The heart symbolizes love and devotion.
Anchor
The anchor symbolizes hope and steadfastness.
Hourglass
The hourglass symbolizes the passage of time.
Footprints
Footprints symbolize the journey of life.
The Broken Column
The broken column is a symbol of sorrow and a broken life.
The Candlestick
The candlestick represents Christ, the light of the world. It is also a symbol of devotion.
The Oil Lamp
The oil lamp symbolizes the word of God. Good works, truth, divine inspiration, enlightenment and knowledge.
Book
The book is the symbol of wisdom, knowledge, and divine authorship. Often associated as The Bible.
The Gate
The gate may signify death and departure from life in this world, and the entrance into heavenly paradise.
The Arch
The arch is a symbol of triumph. The passing from this world to eternal life.
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