Im an American massage student and just learned that my great great grandfather wrote this book in 1899. Can you help me learn what that symbol is on the cover?

by wolf_mother

16 comments

  3. Chinese symbol for “happiness” is what I’m getting when doing search on the symbol

  4. It seems to be a ”chinese symbol for happiness”. I found out with googling the picture.

    Edit: I don’t manage to ad d the link, but google ”chinese Good luck symbol”.

  5. A quick Google search returned *Nordic and Celtic shield knot*

  6. According to google (circle and search), it is a Chinese symbol for the “four blessings”.

    The Four Blessings – an exemplary life is defined by: Virtue, Longevity, Prosperity and Good Health. Use this symbol to enhance these four attributes in all areas of your life.

    But I don’t have any knowledge about it, I just know to to do a image search 😊

    Edit Addon:
    The book is still available to purchase and the writer is Kurre.W.Östrom.

  9. It looks like those old Celtic symbols you see sometimes.

  11. It is most likely a variant of a Norse shield knot. They were knot-like patterns of various details, which just like their sisters the celtic shield knots, represented protection and strength, as well as a symbol of the circle of life.

  15. The Labyrinth in Grinstad Church

    When Grinstad Church was restored in 1913, a unique mural was discovered
    on the northern long wall. It is a large labyrinth painted in red.
    Unfortunately, it was mutilated when the windows were enlarged during a renovation much earlier.
    According to Fritjof Dahlby, the labyrinth represents the wanderings of life but also the pilgrimage to Jerusalem.
    At the same time as the labyrinth was being knocked out, remains of other
    medieval frescoes were also discovered. At the bottom right of the labyrinth is a
    consecration cross, which the bishop drew with consecrated oil when he consecrated the church. https://www.svenskakyrkan.se/mellerud/grinstads-kyrka

    A local church has a really old painting they found under the plaster. Picture down a bit on the page.

  16. from chatgpt: The symbol in your image resembles a stylized version of the ancient Chinese “Shou” symbol (壽), which represents longevity. It’s often used in art, textiles, and architecture to convey wishes for a long and healthy life. The circular design is usually divided into four symmetrical sections, sometimes resembling a maze or intricate geometric pattern.

    Designs like this are common in traditional East Asian decor, especially on fabrics, ceramics, and carvings. If you saw it on clothing, furniture, or packaging, it’s likely meant as a decorative motif symbolizing good fortune and longevity.

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