The definition of symbols is very vast. A symbol is something such as an object, a word or a picture, that represents something else by association. As an example, a language is a symbol, a name is the symbol representing a person.
The historical meaning of certain symbols have been reinterpreted, changing their entire meaning, and even sometimes being the total opposite. For example, the cross is known as the symbol of Christianity. But the exact same cross set on fire on a lawn is symbol of racism and represents the Ku Klux Klan.
Another typical example would be the Swastika. This symbol is considered extremely holy and auspicious by all Hindus and is very often used to decorate items related to Hindu culture. In Buddhism and ancient Tibet, it was a graphical representation of eternity. Today, this symbol is used in Buddhist art to represent universal harmony and the balance of opposites. However, the exact same symbol has been used as a symbol of nazism. Since that period, and only in the western part of the world, it is now representing hate groups and white supremacy, and today some countries like Hungary or Poland have laws that forbid the pubic display of this swastika that is considered as a criminal offense, and it is punishable by up to eight years of imprisonment.
Fortunately, all symbols have not been reinterpreted, or reinterpreted in a negative way, and a lot of them have a very positive and beautiful meaning. As an example, the firefly is the symbol, among other meanings, of light, illumination and energy. This little insect has the specificity to create energy with its tail, so its symbol is light and illumination. Besides, in some particular beliefs, some people think that fireflies come into our lives to guide us to ways of living that are more earth-friendly and soul-friendly.
Symbols are everywhere. We never think about it, but we are surrounded with symbols, whether it’s on the road while driving, or by choosing the name of an unborn child.