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Symbolism > beacon

beacon

The beacon or cresset was an alarm signal placed on high hills, church towers or city gates. On crests it is drawn as an elevated basket overflowing with flames. It was the watchman's duty to fire it if he saw that the next nearest had been fired. Thus the warning of an enemy's approach was conveyed inland from the coast with great rapidity. In heraldry, the beacon signifies one who is watchful, or who gives the signal in times of danger. The hand beacon or pitch pot and the lantern are also symbols that represent spiritual illumination. The metaphorical association is derived from the fact that the light was used for finding one’s way in the dark. It may also indicate that the bearer was in charge of warning beacons.

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