The inhabitants of North Africa have strong tribal rituals that are apparent from their attire to the skin on their bodies. Calling themselves the Imazighen (the Free People); their symbols pre-date Islamic beliefs. Later on, throughout the Islamic era, their symbols became influenced by Islamic geometric designs and incorporated into the culture.
Below is a run through of what some of the symbols mean, and some you may recognise!
ONE: The Olive Tree.
It represents strength and is a translation from the Amazigh language (azzemur – tazmat).
TWO: Wheat.
Wheat represents both life and death. In the culture, it is believed that the sheath of wheat represents life, and the seed in the ground, buried, is death.
THREE: Tree.
Fertility, tranquillity and an easy life. It represents the roots of life and the branches of knowledge.
FOUR: Seeds.
Symbolising life and fertility.
FIVE: Arrow.
The arrow appears regularly in repeated patterns and is said to show the energy of the Amazigh man.
SIX: Sun.
The source of light, and life. However, it also has an opposing meaning of evil as it can dry out water and kill crops.
SEVEN: Crescent.
The openness and rebirth of the moon and symbolic of the rebirth in life.
EIGHT: Cross.
It represents directions and movement, like a compass.
NINE: Diamond.
It represents fertility in women and blessings.
TEN: Ship.
Blessings and wisdom from the waters.