The Peace Symbol

This is the "Peace Symbol" used to represent anti-war activists. But exactly what does the symbol represent. I was shocked to learn what the designed symbol meant. In ancient times it was typical that a three prong symbol pointing downward meant "death of men" and derives from the story of Saint Peter being crucified upside down in the middle of Rome by Emperor Nero. It was then known as the "Nero Cross" or "Sign of the broken Jew." I was a little surprised about that but I was really surprised when I read that the guy who designed the "Peace Sign" was an anti-Christian and purposely chose the anti-Christian symbol that has been used in Satanism. I just blew my mind that the "Peace Sign", that represents good, peace, and love, was designed to mean something completely the opposite.



Source: Hand Peace Symbol
This just reminded me of another way to show peace is to extend your index and middle finger while folding your other fingers into you hand. This hand gesture is commonly used to show others that you come in "Peace."




Source: Upside Down Cross
This is an image of the upside down cross. I was reminded of this image because of the connection between the peace symbol and the upside down cross. But today the symbol is widely used in heavy metal bands or grunge music.