An anchor symbol on a tombstone signifies hope.
Anchor symbol, Greenlawn Cemetery, Wapakoneta, Ohio.
The anchor is an ancient symbol of hope and early Christians drew a cross, disguised as an anchor, to mark and guide their way to secret meeting places. Crosses and anchors are still used together in designs today.
Anchor with cross incorporated in design.
An anchor is mentioned in the Bible, in Hebrews 6:19. This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which enters the Presence behind the veil…
Anchor, among other symbols, Zion Lutheran Cemetery, Schumm, Ohio.
Hope is one of the seven Virtues and is usually depicted as a person leaning on an anchor. Sculpted forms of the seven Virtues are usually found in larger cemeteries, individually or grouped together. Faith, Hope, and Charity are the three theological virtues.
Virtue of Hope, with anchor, St. Joseph Cemetery, Wapakoneta, Ohio.
Virtue of Hope, with anchor, St. Joseph Cemetery, Wapakoneta, Ohio.
Virtue of Hope, with anchor, Elm Grove Cemetery, St. Marys, Ohio.
An anchor is sometimes used as a seafaring symbol on the grave marker of a sailor, but the Christian usage of this symbol is more prevalent.
2 comments
I love learning about this symbology, thank you for your posts! Happy New Year!
Author
Thank you so much! I am glad you enjoy these posts and it is good to receive feedback. Happy New Year to you as well!