What's the meaning of the Chakana »
Chakana
This page is about the meaning, origin and characteristic of the symbol, emblem, seal, sign, logo or flag: Chakana.
The chakana (or Inca Cross) is a stepped cross made up of an equal-armed cross indicating the cardinal points of the compass and a superimposed square. The square is suggested to represent the other two levels of existence.
The geometry of the symbol has a high degree of symmetry. The symbol can be drawn from a circle. A square is inscribed in the circle, with the corners tangent to the circle. This forms the "middle step" of the ladder. A smaller square (tilted 45 degrees) is made from the midpoints of the large square. Connecting the midpoints of the small square and extending the lines to the edge of the circle will form the arms of the cross, otherwise known as the "first" and "last" steps of the chakana. Lines are drawn from the points the lines exit the circle, to complete the cross. A small circle is made from the diameter of the cross lines. To proof the construction, a separate construction line is drawn from the point where the square corners with the cross rectangles to the same point on the opposite side. If the line is 27 degrees from the vertical, the chakana is properly drawn.
- 404 Views
Graphical characteristics:
Symmetric, Closed shape, Monochrome, Contains both straight and curved lines, Has no crossing lines.
Category: Religious Symbols.
More symbols in Religious Symbols:
Religious symbolism is the use of symbols, including archetypes, acts, artwork, events, or natural phenomena, by a religion. Religions view religious texts, rituals, and works of art as symbols of co… read more »
Citation
Use the citation below to add this symbol to your bibliography:
Style:MLAChicagoAPA
"Chakana." Symbols.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 22 Nov. 2024. <https://www.symbols.com/symbol/chakana>.
Have a discussion about Chakana with the community:
Report Comment
We're doing our best to make sure our content is useful, accurate and safe.
If by any chance you spot an inappropriate comment while navigating through our website please use this form to let us know, and we'll take care of it shortly.
Attachment
You need to be logged in to favorite.
Log In