Triangle, Symbolism of

The geometric symbol of the ternary, the equivalent to the number three. In its spiritual sense it represents the Trinity; with the apex upward it symbolizes fire or the yearning of all things toward the higher unity; with its apex truncated it is the alchemical symbol for air and reversed earth.

According to Helena P. Blavatsky, “. . . the ‘double triangle’ composed of two triangles respectively white and black — crossed and interlaced (our society’s symbol) — known as ‘Solomon’s seal’ in Europe — and as the ‘Sign of Vishnu’ in India — is made to represent the universal spirit and matter, one white point which symbolizes the former ascending heavenward, and the lower point of the black triangle inclining earthward” (CW III:250-1).

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