Things are not always what they appear. Examine the picture on the left. Do you see a naked couple embracing or dolphins swimming? True, it is a designed optical illusion but too often we fail to examine those things which need closer inspection.

Symbols in our society are very powerful and too often misunderstood. Examine the symbol below the picture of the ‘dolphins’. It reads, “There is no religion higher than truth”. You may or may not agree with the statement but look closely at the symbols. In the circle at the top of the drawing there is what appears to be a swastika. A symbol of perhaps mans meanest philosophy in history. But consider, the arms of the swastika go to the right, here they go to the left. Now what does it mean to you? What if I told you it can be found on many Buddhist temples?

There is also a six pointed star in the middle. Or is there? Look again, it is a black triangle entwined with a white triangle. A black triangle traditionally represents matter, the white triangle represents the spirit. In the middle is the Ankh, an ancient symbol of life. Together the three represent the Godhead. Deity is often symbolized by three. The Holy Trinity, “Three Lights” and the “Three Lives” of Ain-Suph to name a few.

Just as three is the number of God (body, soul and spirit) four is the number of man. The four directions, four seasons, the four ages of man etc. Combining the number for God and the number for man gives us seven, often thought to be the perfect number. A symbol of completion, the joining of man with god.

The next time you are watching the television look for the symbols behind the podiums or in the ads. You will be surprised at the insight you will gain.