There are many philosophical symbols out in the world, some more popular than other, but still very important to society. One of the most well known philosophical symbols is the Yin and Yang. Yin and Yang comes from the Indian and Chinese Philosophy. The symbol represents the natural dualities in the world; male and female, fire and water, earth and air, hot and cold. The shape of the symbol is a circle with half of it shaded in black, and the other half is white. In each half there is also a dot of the opposite color in it. In order for one of these to exist it needs the other to exist as well. This philosophy is used in Buddhist adaptations of Taoist Philosophy.

Another popular symbol is the Hamsa. Although its origins are unknown, it became popular by being integrated into many religions. It is seen as a universal sign of protection. It gained most of its popularity through the Islam religion. To the Islamic people, the Hamsa is known as the Hand of Fatima, the daughter of the prophet Muhammad. After much influence from Islamic traditions, the Jewish communited adapted the Talisman into their culture. Mostly seen in the Sephardi and Mizrahi communities it has become the Hand of Miriam, the sister of Moses and Aaron. Regardless of which religion it is seen in, or in which philosophical idea it is used in, it is known to be a symbol of protection and able to ward of the Evil Eye.

In today’s world, these symbols are widely used in everyday markets. Most of these symbols can be seen in jewelry as well as many different household items. There are many belly rings with the hamsa symbol on it. Always make sure you buy your jewelry from a reputable seller.