Meaning of fleur de lis (what is it, concept and definition)

What is Flor de lis:

The fleur de lis is the symbolic representation of a lily. Formerly it was used in the coats of arms and shields of French royalty, associated in particular with King Louis VII in the 12th century, who used it for the first time in a seal.

Previously, the use of a similar symbol seems to occur in the decoration of the Istar Gate in Mesopotamia (ancient Babylon), built by Nebuchadnezzar II in 575 BC. C.

The fleur de lis is a symbol of power, sovereignty, honor and loyalty, and also of purity of body and soul. It is a symbol that is used in Scouting, Freemasonry, Alchemy and in some religions.

The word lis is of French origin and means lily or iris. In heraldry (science of blazons) it represents one of the four most popular figures, along with the eagle, the lion and the cross.

Some scholars claim that the lily flower originated from the Egyptian lotus flower, others maintain that it was inspired by the halberd, a three-pronged iron weapon used by soldiers and placed in pits or wells to traverse whoever fell there. Another possible origin is that it is a copy of the design printed on the ancient Assyrian and Muslim coins.

It was also used in ancient maps to indicate north, usually in the "wind roses" as a symbol of the north cardinal point.

Fleur de lis in Scouting

The fleur de lis is the symbol of the World Scout Movement, chosen by the founder of the movement, Robert Baden-Powell in 1907. In Scouting, the three petals represent the three pillars of the Scout promise, the three principles and duties (God, country and home), and the three virtues (self-denial, loyalty and purity), and the north, indicated by one of the petals, indicates the direction that the young person must take, always upwards.

Fleur de lis in tattoos

The fleur de lis is a very popular figure in tattoos for all the associated symbolism. She seeks to represent different aspects. For example, the use of the fleur de lis is popular for its mysticism associated with Freemasonry and alchemy that seek to unveil the mysteries of nature.

The fleur de lis is also used in tattoos to represent purity and righteousness in acting. This symbology is used by Scouting.