The Skull & Crossbones Symbolism / Pirate Symbol
The image of the Skull and Crossbones is recognized 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.