How did a symbol such as the cross, which today is so commonly associated with Christianity, come to appear in the pre-Columbian art of Central America? Every traditional symbol bears an elemental power that transcends boundaries and holds significance for many cultures. But the ways in which we interpret such power have varied tremendously around the world and through the ages. Thought-provoking and visually stunning, "Symbols and their Meanings" offers a uniquely accessible compendium of symbols and symbol systems, and shows how the profound messages conveyed by symbols have enriched the world's cultural and spiritual heritage.