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The Skull & Crossbones Symbolism / Pirate Symbol
The image of the Skull and Crossbones is recognised in the
popular imagination the world over first and foremost as the flag flown
by pirates on the high seas going about their business of looting, rape
and murder - it seemingly being nothing more than a device meant ot strike
fear into the hearts of those who saw a ship flying the dreaded flag bearing
down on them. However, there is a whole lot more to the origin, use and
meanings of the symbol. The Skull and the two human thigh bones crossed
are in some instances ascribed the astrological rulership of the first zodiacal
sign Aries and the 9th sign Sagittarius(17), both positive, Fire signs,
the former cardinal - more dominant, while the latter is mutable - passive.
The combination of Aries and Sagittarius, ruled by Mars and Jupiter respectively,
brings together leadership and courage with profound philosophical thought.
In more recent times, the skull and crossbones have been used to represent
poison and danger. The Symbol is also utilized by the Knights templar and
in part of certain Masonic degree ceremonies. The common use of the Skull
& Cross Bones as a Christian military symbol began during the times
of the Crusades. To the enemies of Christendom the Skull and Cross Bones
when displayed by Christian Knights is a simple, bold and defiant warning.