We make symbols in order to communicate ideas. But we also make symbols to help communicate and understand higher truths that are veiled or hidden to ordinary consciousness.

Wherever you are, you are surrounded by symbols. Everyday symbols such as the Freemason's set square or the lotus flower are familiar to nearly everyone, but few are aware of the true significance and fascinating origin of these signs.

Signs and Symbols reveals the key ideas and sacred concepts behind over 300 signs and symbols, from those used by ancient religions to the glyphs of medieval magicians.

Every symbol is illustrated and is accompanied by a guide to the symbol's use in art, magic and mythology from a wide range of traditions and cultures.

Chapters include:
- Ancient civilizations
- Esoteric and magical traditions including Alchemy, Wicca and Witchcraft
- Animals, Plants and the Natural World
- Amulets, charms and talismans
- Alphabets and letters
- Time, shape, number and colour

This definitive guide is a fascinating exploration into a shadowy world where nothing is as straightforward as it seems.

Madonna Gauding has been a student of Buddhism for over 12 years and is a practitioner of martial arts. She is the author of The Meditation Bible, World Mandalas, Six Keys to Buddhist Living and Working with Meditation.