Triangle

A triangle is a symbol of the three-fold nature of the universe: heaven, earth and man. Mind, body and soul. It is the mystic number three. It also represents the trinity of love, truth and wisdom (?).

Triangles pointing upwards often are a symbol of aspiration towards a higher unity (cf. pyramid).
Triangles pointing downwards often are a symbol for the feminine.

Common meanings as a symbol:

Triangles carry rich symbolic meanings that vary with their orientation and cultural context:

Trinity and threefold nature - The triangle's three sides make it a natural symbol of trinities: mind-body-spirit, past-present-future, father-mother-child, or the Christian Trinity. It represents completeness through three elements united.

Stability and strength - As the strongest geometric shape structurally, triangles symbolize solid foundations, resilience, and enduring strength. This is why they appear in architecture and engineering—they don't collapse under pressure.

Hierarchy and ascension - Pointing upward, triangles represent aspiration, reaching toward the divine, masculine energy, fire, and active force. They symbolize climbing toward enlightenment or achievement, with the peak as the ultimate goal.

Balance of dualities - The three points can represent the resolution of opposites through a third element—thesis, antithesis, synthesis. The triangle balances and unifies polarities into something new.

The divine and spiritual realm - In many traditions, triangles represent deity or spiritual consciousness. The Eye of Providence (eye within a triangle) symbolizes divine omniscience. Egyptian pyramids connected earth to the heavens.

Elemental symbolism - Upward triangles traditionally represent fire and air (ascending elements), while downward triangles represent water and earth (descending elements). Combined triangles form the Star of David, symbolizing harmony between opposing forces.

Feminine and masculine - An upward triangle is often considered masculine (like a blade or mountain), while a downward triangle is feminine (like a chalice or womb). Together they represent sacred union.

Change and transformation - The Greek letter delta (Δ) means change, making triangles symbols of transformation, movement, and the dynamic nature of existence.

Creativity and manifestation - Three is the first number that creates a plane from points, so triangles represent the creative act—bringing ideas into material form.