Bell - bronze, S size

Bell - bronze, S size, single piece

Lobi people, Burkina Faso, West Africa, early 20th century, size approx 25mm x 18mm x 18mm.

Symbol meaning

Bells have been an essential part of many different religions throughout the ages. They symbolize the voice of the Most High in Christianity, Islam, and Buddhism as well, because their playing calls people to pray and obey divine laws. The convex shape of the bell has been said to resemble the roof of the sky, and the swinging of the clock from one half to the other has been seen to symbolize the passing of time and the extremes of life - good and evil, death and life, darkness and light, beginning and end. In different cultures, the bell symbolizes slightly different things. In the Indian tradition, the bell symbolizes hearing, but above all the ancient vibration that has taken the form of sound. In the Islamic world, the ringing of the bell is considered sacred and is considered to represent the sound of the Qur'anic revelation, or the manifestation of God's power in the world of mortals. In Chinese tradition, the sound of the bell is considered the sound of universal harmony. On a general, more everyday level, bells are also considered a symbol of hope, peace (but also war), purity and innocence.

Ritual use

Bells are an integral part of various spiritual practices such as meditation, prayer and rituals. Their sound has been considered to help focus, deepen the connection with divine energy and invite spiritual growth. In many different cultures, the sound of bells is believed to ward off negative energies, evil spirits and protect against harm. They can be hung on doors, windows or worn as amulets around the neck to create a sense of security. Bells are also used to clean the energies of physical spaces, as their sound vibrations help dispel negativity and promote a positive atmosphere. In traditional Wicca, bells also play a very central role. They are used to purify and/or charge crystals, herbs and other items used in rituals. On the altar, the bell is usually located on the left side of the altar, where other elements representing the goddess are also located. Semiphoras recommends using bells as a sign of starting personal altar work.