The axe is among humanity's earliest instruments, having served as a symbolic representation of combat and efforts since the Neolithic period. Pagan gods, Lumberjacks, Roman soldiers, and Viking raiders have all used the axe at some point in history.   The Hindu lightning strike is typically paired with the dual-sided axe, making it an emblem of celestial illumination. In addition, it is also regarded as a symbol of spiritual penetration and fertility since it awakens the soil.