Again, we recieve circular questions based simply on a real lack of knowledge and a total misunderstanding of Scottish history. This post is based on a question that accompanied this picture, which has been sent to us before, but again is doing the rounds it seems.
This information is important those new to using gravestones to trace family trees, accuracy is key.
This has really nothing to do with Covenantors nor whether the individual was killed by another, nor in fact whether they were guilty or innocent. These symbols symbolize mortality and serve as a reminder of death, often accompanied by the phrase “Memento Mori,” meaning “remember you must die.” The Cherubs, or winged heads, are also nothing to do with being innocent or otherwise nor, as has been alluded in the past, anything to do with our family. But rather they represent the soul’s release and together, amongst other carvings, are part of the evolution of death symbolism which are common place in Scottish cemeteries. A fuller explanation can be seen below:
Skull and Crossbones
- Meaning: The skull and crossbones are a symbol of mortality, often associated with the phrase “Memento Mori,” which means “Remember you must die.” It serves as a reminder of the inevitability of death.
- Historical Context: This symbol became prominent in Scottish graveyards during the post-Reformation period when death was a common part of life due to epidemics and poor living conditions. It was used to convey messages about mortality to those who could not read.
- Common Combinations: Often, the skull and crossbones are paired with hourglasses, indicating the passage of time and the fleeting nature of life.
Cherubs
- Meaning: Cherubs, or winged heads, are often referred to as “death heads.” They symbolize the soul’s journey and the release of the spirit from the body.
- Evolution: Over time, the representation of death evolved from skulls and crossbones to more angelic forms, reflecting changing attitudes toward death and the afterlife.
- Cultural Significance: Cherubs are typically seen as guardians of the deceased, offering a more comforting image compared to the starkness of skulls.
Another common depiction is the hourglass, with or without wings. This is The hourglass is a prominent symbol found on many Scottish gravestones. It represents the passage of time and serves as a reminder of mortality. The hourglass signifies that life is fleeting and that time is limited.
Historical Context
- Mortality Reminder: The hourglass often appears alongside other symbols like the skull and crossbones, emphasizing the inevitability of death. This combination serves as a visual reminder to “seize the day” and live life fully.
- Cultural Significance: In the context of Scottish graveyards, the hourglass reflects historical attitudes towards death and the afterlife, particularly during periods when death was a common occurrence due to disease and poor living conditions.
Variations of the Hourglass Symbol
- Flying Hourglass: Some gravestones depict an hourglass with wings, symbolizing the swift passage of time and the soul’s journey into the afterlife.
- Inscriptions: The phrase “Fugit Hora,” meaning “Time Flees,” is often inscribed near the hourglass, reinforcing its message about the transient nature of life.
Conclusion
The hourglass, the crossed bones and cherubs head on Scottish gravestones serves as a powerful symbol of time and mortality, encouraging reflection on the brevity of life and the importance of living meaningfully.
So when searching Scottish graveyards, be aware that while some may tell a story though there carvings, many do not. It is important to research the subject well enough to know the difference, and most certainly ensure that you do not believe all you read on the internet, and especially from sources renowned for posting fiction, rather than fact.
Further information can be found on our other blog on the subject here
