January 24, 2021: Matters of the Heart
The iconic symbol of the heart has long been associated as a symbol of love. But how did this symbol come to represent such a complex emotion?
Over the centuries, the heart been perceived as being the center of emotions, containing courage, wisdom and will. In ancient Egypt, it was considered the life essence, important enough to be preserved during the mummifying process.
There are also a variety of theories on how the heart symbol was created. One is that its origin dates from the 14th century. where an Italian physicist, Guido da Vigevano, made a series of “anatomical drawings” . His work represented the heart as described by Aristotle. the Greek Philosopher, with its three chambers and a dip in the center.
Another is that it dates as far back as the use of Silphium plants by the ancient Greeks and Romans. The plant was harvested into actual extinction, being a popular source as an aphrodisiac, contraceptive, medicine, seasoning and even perfume. Silphium seeds have a “heart” shape.
But the traditional heart symbol of love didn’t actually come into fruition until the 15th century, becoming popular in Europe during the 16 century. During the Renaissance, it was incorporated into religious art and used as one of the fourth suits in playing cards.
By the 18th and 19th century, the heart became an enduring and popular symbol of love to be used in romantic notes and cards.
The heart symbol’s connection with love has expanded from representing just romantic love, to a more casual affection for others and in social media, appreciation. To have a heart means to be kind. A heart of gold signifies kindness and generous, whereas a heart of stone means cruelty and unkindness.
In searching for quotes on “heart”, I discovered a heartfelt treasury of inspirational quotes to share from my heart to yours.
Thanks as always for taking the time to read my blog. Please feel free to share it with someone who will find it meaningful. We welcome your thoughts and additional quotes in the comments below.
HEARTFELT QUOTES
“The most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched, they must be felt with the heart.”
Helen Keller
The human heart has hidden treasures, In secret kept, in silence sealed; The thoughts, the hopes, the dreams, the pleasures, Whose charms were broken if revealed.
Charlotte Bronte
I think… if it is true that there are as many minds as there are heads, then there are as many kinds of love as there are hearts.
– Leo Tolstoy
Don’t be pushed around by the fears in your mind. Be led by the dreams in your heart.
– Roy T. Bennett
Sometimes the heart sees what is invisible to the eye.
– H. Jackson Brown Jr.
Let my soul smile through my heart and my heart smile through my eyes, that I may scatter rich smiles in sad hearts.
– Paramahansa Yogananda
A kind heart is a fountain of gladness, making everything in its vicinity freshen into smiles.
– Washington Irving
At the center of your being you have the answer; you know who you are and you know what you want.
– Lao Tzu
The most confused we ever get is when we try to convince our heads of something our hearts know is a lie.
– Karen Moning
There is an ocean of infinite wisdom in you. Put your hand on your heart and feel it beating.
– Jennifer Williamson
To see more of our heart inspired jewelry: https://dreamscapejewelry.com/let-the-love-shine-through-collection/
