Symbols and Aesthetics of the sides

Since the religions in game are based
heavily on real world religions, the in game religions likewise generally use symbols that are real world religious symbols. This will be a list categorizing the various symbols they use. Note of course that not
every symbol is necessarily used as an official symbol of the sides.
But may simply reflect an aesthetic slant that will show up in their
groups as an indication of their tone. Note that the symbols shown on this page will be the real symbols, and not exactly how they show up looking in game.

In addition to the things
listed here, any gods who show up on a side can likewise be
considered in some sense related to being a symbol of them. And
indirectly by extension any symbols present on any of those. For
instance, the mirror of shinto is mainly associated with neutral, but demons of every alignment are seen wearing them. Which is why certain symbols should be assumed to be more
strongly associated with specific sides than others. At the same
time, certain symbols may be associated more with certain beings, who
may not always be on the same side.

Note that although the members of
the divine powers are meant to represent things somewhat analogous to the normal alignments, they will be shown in the "other"
section, since their appearance in iva is somewhat distinct from the
earlier group alignment depictions. Note also that the pictures on the right will show some real world analogues to these symbols. And may not be identical to the symbols as seen in game. One final point is that many of the symbols are from major religions. Many gods from various small polytheisms are not all strongly associated with any side in particular.

Although the specific sides use the symbols seen it is worth keeping in mind that the real world religions and histories are implied to have existed in the past of these worlds. And as such, the symbols would still retain their use in those contexts. For instance, in the world of smti, while the order of messiah becomes the main abrahamic toned religion during the events of the games, raidou shows the existence of a catholic church in the past. And in soul hackers 2, you see places like yang yang palace that have an abundance of chinese symbols such as a yin yang.

## Collective symbolism

**The kabbalic tree of life** is symbolism that has strong associations with both law and chaos, and even shows up used for neutral once in apocalypse. In smtii, the avatars of god appear as sephirot (also being the form of the earth and sun and solar system, which the sephirot are also equated to), and the areas in the expanse are named after them. In nocturne, the menorahs are named after them. In apocalypse it is seen when satan and merkabah merge together. It is also a major motif in persona 5, with the areas of mementos named after the qliphoth, representing the vices of the tree of death. In strikers, the demiurge also has a tree of life motif, in keeping with its law demeanor and aesthetic. And in smtv, the demon world areas are called da'at.

The shared use of this symbolism reflects how in the kabbalah, the light and dark side are both seen as aspects of the larger system, and is one of the primary ways the universe is contextualized. This has led the symbolism to be taken in many directions by real life groups, including occultists who say you should embrace the darkness. In-game, it gives the collective dynamic a big picture panentheistic tone that encompasses everything.

**Vajrayana imagery**. To parallel the western mysticism conveyed with the kabbalic imagery, all the sides also have elements of eastern mysticism, shown via use of tantric buddhist imagery. For chaos, the gaians overtly look like tantric buddhists, and they have many tantric deities on their side. For neutral, their main spiritual realm is the diamond realm, one of the main vajrayana mandalas. For law, satan takes a form that calls to mind mahakala, throne has the tantric fiery wheel, and many law figures have the third eye. Although note that for law, the aesthetics are used indirectly rather than directly. And of course in nocturne, the entire game takes place in the womb realm.

## Law - Messianism

**Messianism** obviously looks primarily
like christianity. Its aesthetics look kind of like a modernist
version of middle ages
outfits, specifically including the esoteric magical tradition versions. Messian priests tend to wear a blue hooded monastic scapular. And soldiers affiliated with the church tend to look like
different variants
of middle ages soldier outfits, such as rocket crusaders.
The messians' main color scheme is **white** and **blue**. Though some yellow
and red also show up on their outfits in smaller amounts. And many
individual outfits look a little different, and can be a variety of
colors.

In IV, the regular monks retained the white and blue hooded
color scheme, whereas the head monk outfit was more of a burnt
yellow like buddhist monk robes
To show some syncretism of beliefs. Likewise the messiah himself in I
wore an outfit that looked more like an eastern robe. Their
magicians
have robes reminiscent of ancient Jewish headpieces. Since even
regular messians tend to dress in this white and blue color scheme,
someone trying to depict affiliation would likewise likely also wear
colors that reflect this light mentality. More information about this on the outfits page.

Messian churches tend to look like
christian cathedrals. Often in the church itself, the centerpiece
will be a large gold colored cross, with a red carpet leading to it.
Showing a stark contrast with the centerpiece being warm colors, and
the rest of the building will will be more cold colors. The messians
tend to also have a futuristic look on a lot of their things. Though
the inside of the churches themselves generally do not reflect this
(though there are exceptions). There tends to be statues in them of
hooded figures. Sometimes the outside of buildings will look like
they are trying to capture ancient designs as well, such as with eden
having greek columns.

**Blue cross**. The roman cross is a symbol of the sacrifice of jesus, and at times used as a more general symbol of sacrifice in general. The main messian
symbol is the simple blue cross, or white cross on a blue background.
Though they also use crosses of other colors. The blue cross symbol shows up in various forms that are slightly differently shaped, or mixed with various other symbols, since many of the other religious symbols they use will be variants that have a cross mixed in to show the dominance of the christian paradigm within the syncretism. The blue and white colors used in their logo creates a polarity with the gaians whose colors tend to be red and black. In this case, the cold colors are also represending an emotional tone of calm and peace to contrast the agression of the gaians. Notably, messians use the cross as a symbol but don't seem to use the crucifix.

**Shield cross**. Although it has no official name, a symbol that often shows up in christian history is the cross emblazoned in a shield. This has various meanings, such as jesus being your protection. Originally it came into use most prominently during the crusades, but later christians such as anglicans also use it as a symbol in various colors. This symbol shows up on a lot of messian outfits, and comes in multiple variants, either with a full shield or a partial shield that has a V shape on the bottom. Interestingly, while the christian one has a curved edge, the one in the games is more boxy. This may be a reference to the japanese symbol for hospitals, which has a similar shape.

**The cross of lorraine** is a variant of the Christian cross which possesses a smaller crossbar placed above the
main one so that both crossbars are near the top. No particular meaning for the origin of the second bar is known. It has similarity with the eastern orthodox cross which has three bars. In SMTII the statues in the back of the church are seen holding a processional cross that has two crossbeams. More notably, the concept art for iv shows that in the cathedral there is a cross of Lorraine with two short cross bars on top of a giant menorah. Although in the case of iv, the bars are both short.

**Menorah**. The menorah is one of the oldest symbols of judaism, said to have come from moses himself. It was also a symbol of ancient christianity, due to it originally being a denomination of judaism, but this fell of use. It is seen as a symbol of enlightenment, and the connection of the individual to the light of god. While the menorah is actually used more by chaos in the games, in smtiv, the artwork shows a menorah at the base of a lorraine cross at the center of the monastery.

**Lotus cross**. Another variant the cross that shows up appears to be the lotus cross. In the churches in both smti and smtii a cross on flower shows up that resembles the lotus cross. In hindu and buddhist symbolism the lotus is symbolic of purity of the body, speech, and mind as while rooted in the mud, its flowers blossom on long stalks as if floating above the muddy waters of attachment and desire. And as such can also symbolize enlightenment. And the lotus cross is a symbol that occasionally appears in use by japanese christians, but has its history in manichaeism. This symbol being used by messians shows an element of their syncretism. The lotus wand is also a law item.

**Rose cross**. The rose cross, also known as the rosy cross is a symbol associated with the rosicrucian order, and later with christian esotericism in general. It is normally depicted with a red, gold, or white rose, and may also have esoteric symbols overlaid onto it. Various meanings for the symbol exist, ranging from the connection between the body and consciousness to the idea of sexuality being elevated to the realm of the spiritual. The previous symbol of the lotus cross may also be meant to allude to the idea of the rosy cross in-game. In addition, in the ps1 and gba versions of smti, the cross used in messian churches resembles the golden dawn rosy cross, as does the one held by principality. These allusions likely being intentional due to law's golden dawn allusions.

**Cross and Hexagram.** In smtii, on the messian banners held by neophytes and adepts there is a cross laid over a hexagram. The hexagram is composed of two triangles, a downward facing black one, and upwards facing yellow one. While the cross overlaying a hexagram is a common symbol associated with combined christisn and jewish heritage, the particular symbol used is associated with the golden dawn, where it is used as part of the banner of the east. Before the time of the golden dawn, the two colored hexagram was used in esoteric teachings to highlight various things, such as the idea of the union of opposites. More info about the banner of the east in the summoning section below.

**The Jerusalem cross** (also known as "Five-fold Cross", or "cross-and-crosslets") is a heraldic cross and Christian cross variant consisting of a large cross potent surrounded by four smaller Greek crosses, one in each quadrant. It was used as the emblem and coat of arms of the Kingdom of Jerusalem from the 1280s. A version of this combined with a roman cross is seen on gaston's outfit, likely in keeping with its association with crusaders. This is notable, because outside of gaston's outfit no overt crosses are seen being used by the messians in the universe of IV. For gaston's cross, the four smaller greek crosses don't have space between them, but instead the arms meet with the bars of the central cross.

**Cross fleury** is a heraldic cross adorned at the ends with flowers, often showing up either on banners or shields. It generally contains the fleur-de-lis, or trefoils. It is seen as a metaphor for a mature developed faith, and has a counterpart cross that instead has buds, representing the early, archaic, beginnings of developing faith. In-game, it is seen being used by both some human units, as well as angelic units like metatron. It can be assumed that the corresponding version using the buds is then in use by them as well, although it is not seen.

**Coldness** Note that the above ice symbolism is likely, but either way, coldness is something commonly associated with law in general. In SJ they even call you
cold. This contrasts hotness used for chaos. The messian outfits are most often blue and white, which are cold colors.

**Light** is a common association of the law side. Not only pure white light, but rainbows as a depiction of colorful light as well. A rainbow is seen over zelenin in the remake of strange journey.

**Three Scales.** The three scales was a japanese symbol associated in the past with the hojo clan, but which later became a commonly used japanese symbol in general. In megaten it is a major law symbol. It shows up occasionally in the earlier games, such as being on law hero's hat in the remake of smti, but more notably, in smtiv the monks are seen wearing it on large medals as their primarily seen symbol. One stated reason for its use being as a reference to the trinity. A motif that also shows up in abdiel's armor, and in yhvh's form in apocalypse.

**Thaumaturgic triangle**. The thaumaturgic triangle is a symbol associated with esoteric magic traditions, having ties to various things ranging from occultism, to rosicrucianism to kabbalah. While a relatively simple symbol in it's own, it is often mixed with more complex imagery. In smti, the temple knight is seen wearing one on a medal. In smtii the magus seems to mix the symbol with the eye of providence. And in iv, similar medallions are shown being used mixed with the three scales of the hojo clan crest.

**Peace sign**. The peace sign that was originally created in the 50s to signify Nuclear disarmament is used to represent the law side in various games. In addition, peace is one ofthe main terms associated with the side. In iva it is a general symbol used to depict them. And in strange journey it may be the basis of zelenin's cross. In the persona series, Angels and the persona messiah are also seen using it. While this is used to signal the peaceful orientation in general, the angels and peace sign combo is likely also a subtle reference to new age aesthetics.

**Scales**. The symbol of scales represents justice, judgement or law and order. The depiction dates back to ancient Egypt, where the god Anubis was frequently depicted with a set of scales on which he weighed a deceased's heart against the Feather of Truth. And from there also became a christian symbol. Although the symbol of the scales doesn't show up in his in game artwork, some official art of satan in human form shows it on the back of his coat. Since satan in particular is depicted as the embodiment of God's judgement. Likewise, the angel dominion holds a pair of scales.

**Hebrew lettering** is a thing used as a symbol in various contexts, not only in judaism, but in some christian churches. The messians are seen using it as a cereonial motif at various times, such as the naming of characters in II, or the church in nine. Kabbalah sees hebrew as not merely a language, but as the building blocks of the universe itself.

**Michaelangelo's adam** the paiting of god creating adam is seen on the wall in a room used by a law figure.

**Crown of thorns.** Although it doesn't show up in the game itself, in the official artbook, the jesus armor is shown to have a crown of thorn motif worked onto it. This symbol is related to the laurel wreath, and is often used to contrast against crowns that symbolize status, by symbolizing willingness to sacrifice. Something that has a parallel in the law side itself. Note that symbols of jesus used by the messian church tend to be aniconic, in keeping with the lesser focus on jesus.

**Angels**. Angel statues. Unsurprisingly,
given its christian aesthetics, angel statues are common for the law
side. Likewise various hooded statues to reflect their priest
uniform.

**Machinery**. In IV the main angels are
depicted as literal robots, and some of the others are said to act
like them. And in general, law has a futurist aesthetic in many of the games.
This is used to symbolize them being cold and logical and
unemotional. Even in older games, some angels were depicted like
robots. Like metatron, victor, and ophanim. Which is more common for
many angels than for any other side.

**Bee Hive**. In IV the cocoons used to
purify people of their selfish mentalities were shaped like beehives.
And one of them at the end of the law route is designated a new holy
place and to be used as a symbol. Though this is only a symbol in the
indirect sense, it is still used to represent the collective
mentality and the greater good that law is associated with. Likewise, at the end of persona 5, Ialdabaoth has honeycomb shaped things on him as well.

**Fish**. The demon maria has a fish, in reference to the historical use of fish as Christian symbol, most specifically the ichthys.

**Bloody tears**. In keeping with the fact that some mary statues were said to do that in real life, maria in nine is shown bleeding out of her eyes. Zelenin likewise does the same. And abdiel's fallen form in V.

**Puppets**. Some of the angels, like
haniel are depicted sometimes as actual puppets. Which is a sarcastic
 depiction of them as thinking of themselves as mere tools for the
greater good.

**Smiley Face**? Two separate messians show up with a smiley face on their outfit in SMTII. Its a small enough number that it may be a coincidence, but its not clear whether it is.

**The three legged crow** is a creature and symbol believed by East Asian cultures to inhabit and represent the Sun. This is an ancient symbol showing up on totemic articles from china that stretch back to 5000 b.c.

In shinto, it is referred to as **Yatagarasu,** and is a messenger of divine intervention, as well as a symbol of rejuvenation. While not showing up as a symbol, the yatagarasu itself shows up as a character on the law side in strange journey, and is hinted to be in other games, potentially in reference to its association with the sun. In the devil summoner games it represents a neutral organization.

**Eye of providence**. The eye of providence in a triangle is a historical symbol for the trinity that was later taken up by occultists, as a symbol of new world order conspiracy theories, and by the syncretic religion cao dai. In-game it is used as a symbol by the messian magus and temple knight as well as the form of shaddai (who likely draws on the form from cao dai). The plot of SMTII also seemingly intentionally resembles the back of the us dollar bill, with the top of the pyramid coming off with the eye of providence inside. These references tying to the fact that law draws on these conspiracies. Likewise, in persona 5, jaldabaoth and shido are both seen using it as a symbol.

**Archons**. One association law has is the association with gnostic archons. This shows up being referred to explicitly on michael's spear that is given to gaston in iva. Yhvh also takes the form of the demiurge in various games. Note that in platonism, unlike gnosticism, the demiurge is not seen as a corrupted or ambivalent entity.

**The tetramorph** is the christian symbol of a lion, ox, eagle, and human seen together, which derives from babylonian symbols for the fixed zodiac signs. In game it is seen both on the demon cherub, which is one of it's most common associations, and on maria. Since abdiel's nahobino form resembles a bull, its possible it is also meant to call this to mind, due to the hair being mane-like and the wing / beak looking mask.

**The hammer of thor**. The hammer of thor (known as mjolnir) is often used as a religious symbol, and had been done so since the times the norse religion was practiced. Interestingly, the symbol was often conflated with the christian cross after coming in contact with christianity, for a variety of reasons. In SMTI thor's hammer is used as a symbol that represents the coming judgement to cleanse the demons and to pave way for the thousand year kingdom. Despite this, in most games following SMTI thor is not associated with law. Thor's presence on law in SMTI is tied to yhvh's depiction as a father god.

**Lily**. The lily is a common motif in christian artwork, being seen alongside saints or angels. It is especially associated with the annunciation, shown alongside gabriel and mary, and is often used to symbolize purity or truth. In some cases the lily is also combined with the cross as a symbol, such as the lily crucifix used by the Anglican church. In megaten, Gabriel is seen holding a lily in certain appearances. Gabriel in particular being heavily associated with the flower. The angel power's spear and helmet are also shaped like a fleur-de-lis, which is a stylized lily. Note law's larger association with gardens in general.

**Wrathful deities**. In Buddhism, wrathful deities or fierce deities are the fierce, wrathful or forceful forms or manifestations of some type of divine being. Normally the same figure also has other peaceful aspects. Wrathful deities are a notable feature of the iconography of Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism, especially in Tibetan art, and often have a tantric purpose. These types of deities first appeared in India during the late 6th century, with its main source being the Yaksha imagery, and became a central feature of Indian Tantric Buddhism by the late 10th or early 11th century. While the idea of wrathful deities are mostly associated with chaos, satan in SMTII takes the form of an eastern wrathful deity, drawing on the form of mahakala, with the fierce appearance, third eye, blue skin, and six arms. This likely also alludes to shiva, with him taking a shiva-like role in the plot.

**Cao dai** is a vietnamese syncretic religion, merging western monotheistic ideas into a mix of buddhism, confucianism, and shinto. Cao dai is one of the largest syncretic religions in the world that is known specifically for deliberately mixing eastern and abrahamic ideas. The main god takes the form of the eye of providence, seen as a giant blue orb. The demon shaddai in the games likely takes inspiration from this design, especially in keeping with the fact that yhvh and satan are given a vaguely dharmic veneer.

**Wheel**. Thrones are seen shaped like a wheel in keeping with their historical depiction that derives from the merkabah in the book of ezekiel. The in-game depiction also merges with the tantric imagery of wrathful deities using flaming wheels as a symbol.

**Laurel wreath**. The laurel wreath or leaf crown is a symbol from ancient Greece associated with the god Apollo, and which was often given as a symbol of victory and honor. Recently it has been used as a symbol for greek religion as a whole. For the law side, gimmel is seen wearing one, since he is designed to look like Apollo. This being in keeping with the greek aesthetic used by law in SMTII. Haniel is also seen with one, due to his appearance based on the greek eros. In persona, the velvet room also uses it as a symbol with a V between the leaf.

**The Cornucopia**, also known as the horn of plenty is a symbol generally used to signify plentifulness or abundance, specifically in the connotations of food. As a symbol it comes from greek religion, and is associated with various gods. In megaten, it is seen held by demeter, symbolizing fertility and abundance. She is also seen holding wheat, in keeping with depictions of her often having these two items.

**Sky**. Law tends to be associated with the sky, whereas chaos is associated with the earth. Since sky represents being all encompassing, whereas the ground signifies difference.

**Enso** is a symbol associated with japanese buddhism that is generally hand drawn in a single brushstroke. The *ensō* symbolizes various things such as absolute enlightenment, strength, elegance, the universe, and *mu* (the void) / emptiness. It is characterised by a minimalism born of Japanese aesthetics.

Although an explicit version of it does not seem to show up anywhere, in Iv when merkabah transforms you see a symbol that seems to be derived from it. Lucifer talks about merkabah subsisting on the empty breath of god, using the word sunyata in japanese, and so the hollow / circular depiction seems indicative of an inner emptiness. The association between emptiness and lawful ideology begins even earlier with the world of shijima being supported by the buddhist inspired assembly of nihilo.

**Gargoyles** or grotesques refer to stone statues with a frightening appearance placed on top of gothic cathedrals, with the former term generally delineating ones specifically used for the purposes of siphoning water away from the building as a spout. The meanings of them tended to vary, with some being seen as a depiction of evil, though some were also seen as apotropaic devices, having a fierce demeanor to frighten away evil. In SMTII, the place set is sealed has gargoyle statues on the outside, in keeping with the gothic aesthetic law often uses in the early games. The focus on demonic religious artwork for law parralels the chaotic use of wrathful deity statues.

**The crucified serpent** or **the brazen serpent** refers to a symbol initially claimed to be used by moses as a ward to diseases, later entering into alchemy to represent the idea of fixing the volatile, and eventually into the works of jung, where a similar meaning can be applied of taking control of potentially harmful elements in order to stabilize them into something beneficial. Although its not clear if it is official, there is an art piece that uses this symbol to reflect zayin. In-game, satan at times is also associated with crosses, such as in dds2 where at the opening of the battle he makes a cross shape, with a serpentine appearance around it, and in apocalypse where his stigmata alludes to having been crucified.

**The sigil of Law**. In the eternal champion books, the sigil of law is a single arrow pointing up, signifying a single order. While this is speculative, the arrow seen on the messian cross may be based on the idea of the sigil of law. Interestingly, while a lot of fiction references the equivalent chaotic symbol, the chaos star, megaten does not seem to do so.

**The third eye**. While it also shows up as a chaos symbol, various law aligned figures are seen with the third eye, like satan, shekinah, and ganesha.

**The number of the beast**, while also associated with the chaotic demon master therion, is also a motif used for the law demon satan in SMTII. This being in keeping with conspiracy theories conflating it with illuminati-like forces.

**The triple gem** or the three jewels refers to the things one takes faith in in order to become a buddhist. These refer to the buddha, the law, and the religious community. While the buddha refers primarily to the literal buddha, it has been expanded in concept either to refer to others or to one's buddha nature. They are often symbolized with three gems that are red, blue, and yellow. Although it is not definite, in addition to representing the sephirot, the three avatars of god in II are likely also meant to represent the three gems. Doubly since yhvh and satan also appear with a dharmic tone.

**Lamassu**. In SMTII, the art for the cherub statues looks like the babylonian lamassu. In game, however, the cherub statues are designed to look like winged sphinxes, and have an egyptian aesthetic. (note that they are also seen on the ark, which is pyramid shaped). Being likely in reference to sphinxes having a similar source as lamassu. In SMTV, abdiel's nahobino form is also likely meant to call lamassu to mind.

**Octopus**. The standard power unit is shown with an octopus on its shield, though there is art that implies that different ones may have different designs. An octopus is sometimes used to show strength or scope, such as with conspiracy theories using it to indicate something having its hands all across the world.

**Winged sun**. On top of the adept's staff in smtii is a symbol based on the egyptian winged sun. This is due to it being a reference to the order of the golden dawn using this symbol for the magic wand of the head adept.

**Crucifixion**. While as a tangible symbol law tends to use empty crosses, law hero appears in a crucified vision in smti. Krishna likewise uses crucifixion in his ceremonialism with the body of flynn.

**Zoroastrian butterfly**. On anahita's design on her shields she has the line and arrows zoroastrian symbol that is meant to be a butterfly that represents good thoughts, words and deeds.

**Ark of the Covenant**. In SMTII, the magic boxes used for storage by the messians are designed to look like the Ark of the Covenant.

**Boobs.** Quite a few angels that have exposed boobs on otherwise androgynous bodies, likely meant to show the androgyny of angels. It may also be a devilman reference, since in devilman angels are hermaphroditic, and generally have boobs.

**The kaaba**. The kaaba from islam shows up indirectly as a way to delineate the location of yhvh. In iva the monoloth from 2001 represents it, and in sj the demon alilat. This is because alilat was a godess worshiped in the place that was later taken over by islam.

## Neutral – Unnamed

Neutral stands out from law and chaos
in that it doesn't have a religious organization which is called by
an obvious name, and takes parts in the game's active plots. However,
in SMTI and SMTII there are healing shrines which are treated as the neutral churches. Despite their differences,
they are actually designed to look continuous from eachother. Them
both focusing on the shinto mirror as the centerpiece. And both
having a figure with similar hair and **orange** clothes. (Neutral is often also associated with **green**).

In the garage in II there is
a large shine in the back, even though the place doesn't look like a
church. Showing perhaps a unification between the spiritual and
practical. Despite similarities in these places, and the long term
explicitly shinto and taoist appearance of neutral, it tends to not
be identified with a specific religion in game, often having more
unnamed shrines and appearances.

Neutral spiritual centers in game are
rarely depicted with any kind of a western aesthetic. They seem
mostly eastern looking, aesthetically mainly combining taoism and
shinto. This is meant as a criticism of binary western thinking
especially with christianity's heaven / hell division. (Note that
some Christianity does include a third middle place called limbo). The neutral spiritual avatars in game are generally eastern, such as taijorokin and
masakado for example. And the four devas loosely count for devil
survivor. Mastema and sophia showing up as western representstives.

One reason for this ambiguity being that neutral
often rejects the idea of a specific overall single perspective,
depicting itself as mixing them. By extension some games imply that
neutral figures wouldn't all necessarily reject messianism and
gaianism as religions, but would want them to both be toned down and
turned more moderate and be places one could interact with for
different aspects of life or areas of interest.

In a similar vein to
this idea, mastema shows up as a neutral angel in IV with demons
working under him, but still seems to respect the same concepts of
holy places as the other angels. Showing that he's not rejecting his
role as an angel, but sees it in a balanced light. Note that the churches being depicted aligning with more absolute ideologies shows events taking place in apocalyptic scenarios. Not necessarily how they act day to day.

**Yin and Yang** symbol. The actual
name for the symbol is the **Taijitu**, though most just call it for what
its expressing. In Chinese philosophy, yin and yang describe how
seemingly opposite or contrary forces may actually be complementary, interconnected, and interdependent in the natural world, and how they
may give rise to each other as they interrelate to one another. In
game the association is obvious. Representing a balance between law
and chaos rather than leaning to one side. This symbol shows up for neutral in the neutral church / repair garage in ii. But in addition to this, a variant of it shows up in the neutral area in smt imagine. Making it have a tone of a recurring central neutral symbol. Note that Taishang Laojun, a major taoist god is also a major neutral rep in smti.

**The Bagua**, or Pa Kua, are eight
trigrams used in Daoist cosmology to represent the fundamental
principles of reality, seen as a range of eight interrelated
concepts. Each consists of three lines, each line either "broken"
or "unbroken," respectively representing yin or yang. Due
to their tripartite structure, they are often referred to as
"trigrams" in English. The octagonal arrangement of them
likewise shows up in the repair garage, adding an even further yin
yang association to it. Since at the back of the garage is a small alter with taoist and shinto symbols contained within it. Making it both a garage and a church.

**The circular mirror** of Shinto is a
potent symbol. One often sees it when visiting shrines, where it
stands on the altar as representative of the kami. It can play a more
vital role too, for it sometimes functions as the ‘spirit-body’
(goshintai) of the kami. These are found in the neutral church in I,
and the repair garage in II, and one is even worn by masakado,
the neutral representative in many games. Note that although these
objects obviously call to mind literal spirits, and neutral tends to
overly emphasize the human element, neutral is not necessarily
against spirits per say, merely humans relying on them and thinking
they are better than humans. Sometimes direct interaction. They may
for example like indirect action, and adore far away gods, or those
who keep demons from earth.

**Shimenawa**. Ropes (usually with
paper sticking out) called shimenawa decorated with paper streamers
called shide often surround yorishiro to make their sacredness
manifest. Though used mainly by chaos, sometimes neutral is seen
using these as well.

**Taiko** are a broad range of Japanese
percussion instruments. In Japanese, the term refers to any kind of
drum. You see taiko drums in the neutral healing dojo in I.

**A torii** is a traditional Japanese
gate most commonly found at the entrance of or within a Shinto
shrine, where it symbolically marks the transition from the profane
to the sacred. The presence of a torii at the entrance is usually the
simplest way to identify Shinto shrines, and a small torii icon
represents them on Japanese road maps. They are however a common
sight at Japanese Buddhist temples too, where they stand at the
entrance of the temple's own shrine, called chinjusha and are usually
very small. In II you see one in the religious aspect at the back of
the repair garage. Despite shinto considering the divine to be
interacting with all things, one could arguably spin the neutral use
of this as differentiating everyday life from interacting with the

divinity which takes place elsewhere, rather than wanting it more direct. Use of torii is not limited to neutral however. In I a chaos figure is seen doing a ritual in a room prepared with one. And in imagine, one is seen in the chaotic town.

**The diamond realm**. The diamond realm shows up
as the main neutral spiritual realm in I and bonus area in II and iva. Being under the command of En No Ozuno, who is depicted as a neutral figure. And who being the founder of shugendo has a tie in to shinto as well, rather than it being depicted as a purely Buddhist thing. Steven also seems to use the diamond realm as a kind of base of operations that he uses to do things in multiple universes.

Maitreya also uses a mandala in iva, despite being chaos aligned. Buddhism as a whole does tend to sway chaos, but aspects of it do show up in multiple alignments.

**Sophia** is a concept from hellenistic philosophy meaning wisdom (and which is the basis of the word philosophy itself). It later became a symbol in christianiy where it represented a personification of the divine wisdom, being associated with either Jesus or the holy spirit. In gnosticism it was seen as an actual godess, who also functioned as this personification, and is one of the primary figures of veneration. In smt nine the Gnostic sophia shows up as a neutral figure, in ties with the game's struggle against yaldabaoth as the demiurge. However, while implicit gnostic themes show up in the rest of the series, these associations only explicitly exist for neutral in this game. Sophia also shows up as the one who helps you fuse demons in V.

**Black maria**. The black mary was originally a polish designed statue, used to represent the virgin mary. But over time this was appropriated into other traditions, most notably as a symbol to represent the Vodou Spirit Erzulie Dantor. Since modern vodou comes from a mix of earlier polytheistic traditions with christian elements, the use of christian symbolism for it is common. Images of the black madonna in particular were brought to Haiti by Polish mercenaries. In-game, the design of black maria is mixed with the painting the idol of perversity. While originally depicted as a chaos demon, black maria is most notable for being the form taken at the end of iv by danu, the queen of the fairies. Stating that she has to take a new form to perform a new role. While the form of black maria is not explicitly mentioned in apocalypse, she does retain some christian symbolism, as well as become a major neutral rep.

**Shamrock.** In IVA danu uses the
shamrock as a symbol. This is meant to show a kind of tolerance of
christianity, and incorporating its reality into the pagan paradigm.
Since danu's neutral involves tolerance of things veering in other
directions as diverse ideas to draw from into the ultimately neutral
paradigm, this incorporation of christian symbolism is relevant.
Doubly so since in IV she becomes black maria, and so this quasi
christian attitude still exists within her.

**Four leaf clover.** Dagda uses the
four leaf clover specifically to distinguish against the Christian use of the shamrock. Something that is part of danu's design. This shows a greater antagonism against Christian identity.

**Celtic crosses.** Danu also uses a
Celtic cross shaped magic spell, calling in mind that in IV she took
on the form of black maria. Note that since mastema shows up on the
neutral side in IV, with demons working under him, bringing the
further aspects in more reflects a potential balance between the

aspects. Though use of crosses for neutral is meant to be rare. Note that the abundance of irish symbols all comes from iva. And is not necessarily implied to be something that is commonly used by neutral as a whole. Scathach also wears one. And the demon duverger. Irish symbols being used for neutral is because fairies are a main neutral race, and the irish gods are the main origin of fairies.

**Triple Spiral.** Also called a
**triskele**, the Celtic triple spiral is still found at several
Megalithic and Neolithic sites. The symbol is thought to be so old
that it may predate the Celts entirely. Various similar symbols have been seen in other places.

Note that this symbol is not used by a regular neutral character, but dark neutral. Dagda uses it as a symbol on his belt. And so it reflects his own slant. He also has a helmet designed to look like the buddha eyes symbol, as well as a four leaf clover. Note though that while his character is dark neutral, him as a figure is still tied to the tuatha de, who are normal neutral. And when he dies and a new one is created it is then the normal neutral side who is using the triple spiral as a symbol for themselves.

**Celtic tree of life**, also known as **Crann Bethadh as Gaelige**, is an ancient symbol whose meaning is heavily disputed, due to the original sources being incomplete. The celtic tree symbol seemed to represent in practice not a specific tree, so much as the idea of the use of trees in life in general, and the balance represented by them. Trees were often given a place of importance in celt culture, such that when the Irish Celts formed a new community, they planted a tree right at its center, and it was called the ‘Crann Bethadh’, meaning the Tree of Life. There may be a connection to the norse tree yggdrasil, though the full extent of such is unknown.

In apocalypse, danu takes the form of a tree, likely in refrence to this symbol. While nothing in-game ties it to the kabbalic tree of life, its notable that such appears in the same game.

**Bugs**. The fairy race is often treated as one of the main neutral races. And while in iva they use more irish symbols in reference to their being derived from the tuatha de, in earlier games their leaders were oberon and titania from shakespeare. Various fairies have various bug like symbols being used by then, such as titania also having a blue butterfly symbol on her face.

The one to the right is used by oberon in later games, and is actually based on the egyptian scarab symbols. The scarab was associated with the gods because the way it laid its eggs came off like a depiction of life being derived from death. A major egyptian focus associated with the gods in general.

**Peace sign**. While the peace sign was initially associated with angels in the series, apocalypse also puts one on Nanashi's outfit, which seems to be being presented as a neutral attire. It's use of the sign is a little different than that of law however, since in the law context it is about maximizing peace overall, whereas in the neutral context it is more about rejecting the struggle in the immediate sense. It is also paired with the lyrics from the song imagine, giving a tone of rejecting an otherworldly goal in favor of a humanistic one.

    **A chalice** is a goblet or footed cup intended to hold a drink. In religious practice, a chalice is often used for drinking during a ceremony or may carry a certain symbolic meaning. Depicted here is the flaming chalice, the official logo of the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) and other Unitarian and UU churches and societies.

In SMTIV, the chalice of hope is depicted as a symbol of neutral, and of the hope of managing to accomplish its seemingly harder task of defending both ideals. Though this is symbolic as the chalice itself is never seen. Since neutral doesn't have overt christian aesthetics, and UU is considered a modern secular spirituality outside the bounds of normal religion, but which incorporates it, it is an apt comparison.

**Katakura clan crest.** The Katakura clan is a Japanese family which claims its descent from Fujiwara no Toshihito by way of Katō Kagekado. The family entered Mutsu Province in the 14th century as subordinates of the Ōsaki clan. However, in 1532, they became retainers of the Date clan, and remained so until 1872. In the Sengoku era, the Katakura took part in all the major campaigns of the Date clan.

In megaten this symbol is seen worn out the outfit of masakado, who is one of the main figures of the neutral side. Though this is odd, since he is not from the clan it is from.

**Traditional auspicious chinese symbols**. China uses various circular symbols to depict things such as luck and prosperity. These symbols will generally be shown in red, although they can also be drawn in generic black. While it doesn't necessarily seem to be based on any particular symbol, in SMTV, nuwa's dress is shown with a symbol on it that resembles this classical chinese design. Nuwa, alongside Shohei, function as the neutral reps of v, although they seem to be themselves leaning to dark neutral, using almost chaotic sounding rhetoric.

**Nuwa** is the chinese mother goddess, and she is often depicted as a snake with a human either head or full torso. Sometimes she is depicted intertwined with fuxi, with the sun disk above them. They are associated with the creation of humanity in chinese folk religion. While neutral itself isn't seen with any statues of her, nuwa herself shows up as a character, bearing the symbolism of her traditional banners. She has the chinese sun disk above her in her design, and has a snake on her head which may represent either herself, or her depiction alongside fuxi. Her connection with fuxi may also be being used symbolically to depict her connection to yakumo in-game.

**Buddha statue**. While neutral is never seen overtly displaying buddha statues, (In fact, rarely displays statues in general) they are for sale in the neutral church in smti. While the neutral church in smti looks more like a shinto shrine, the buddhist diamond realm is the main neutral spiritual realm in that game, and it is presided over by en no ozuno, who the visionary items state is an incarnation of a bodhisattva. So it has a tone of buddhist aesthetics as well, even if the church itself doesn't have as overt of one as chaos. Notably, steven is also described as having freed himself from the death and rebirth of normal humans like a buddha. So a loose association is also given to inspirational neutral figures.

**Law and chaos symbols**. While neutral is primarily seen using its own symbols, many games imply that due to its middle ground aspect between law and chaos, that it may at times use symbols associated with those. For instance, danu using a cross. In games like majin tensei ii, dx2, and the iv missions with mastema, neutral has Angels and demons working together. And so there is a presumption of occasionally also using that symbolism in a neutral light, although not explored in depth.

**Human**. In keeping with the fact that neutral has a heavy focus on humanism, it uses the form of humanity itself as a motif. Namely, neutral gods tend to take the form of humans in order to interact with humans, if not are transcended humans who became a higher being to begin with.The symbol for humanism is itself a human, as shown to the right, known as the happy human symbol.

Note that humanism is not inherently anti religious per say, with there being various religious humanisms. Noting also that neutral in-game is not atheistic per say, but being a more human focused spirituality that wants some distance from nonhuman gods as if in a deistic sense. Though it may also have some nonhuman gods. And of course has transcended humans as major figures, though not always seen in a normal religious light. The concept of adam ha-rishon, the spirit of humanity is also mentioned, being a religious focus on human nature itself.

**Yatagarasu**. Although the demon itself shows up as a law demon, and is stated to be a servant of yhvh in an interview, the name yatagarasu is used in the devil summoner games for what seems to be a neutral organization.

**Blue flower**. The blue flower is used as a symbol for the shomonkai in devil survivor. Sometimes being ascribed over the corner of a circle. Although what flower it is in particular seems difficult to place. While in many of their robes the flower is merely a star shaped design on the side, for amane it becomes a physical thing placed on her headband. The shomonkai are presented as a neutral group, albeit an extreme one who makes dubious decisions and allyship in order to accomplish its goal of fighting off yhvh. The group itself is also presented as semi malleable, since it can be gotten to follow you on the chaos and law leaning endings as long as your actions seem beneficial to humanity.

## Chaos - Gaianism

**Gaianism** tends to look like vajrayana buddhism, specifically of the japanese shingon variety, but with occasional shinto aesthetics thrown in. Its practices and divinities are more varied however, with many western gods and demons, and some western occultism thrown in. It also has a color scheme of black and red that is
obviously meant to call to mind western satanism, although it has explicitly western aesthetics less often.

Many of the gaian human
enemies come off like different forms of eastern things, such as
Onmyoji, which is a form of eastern esotericism believed to give one
special abilities. One staple of gaian temples is that they are often dimly lit to signify darkness, and often lit with only candles.

**Om** is part of the iconography of Hinduism and Buddhism. In Hinduism,
Om is one of the most important spiritual symbols. It
refers to Atman (soul, self) and its relation to Brahman (ultimate reality, supreme spirit). Om is also the primordial sound associated with the creation of the universe. The seed syllable form of it also shows up in tantric buddhism where it has a similar meaning of the unlimited, or the wholeness of reality. In SMTI, the gaians use the seed syllable om as a symbol on their banners in their main church and in the final areas. This is in keeping with their association with tantric buddhism. It also shows up on the chaos shirt and jackets.

**The** **Chandrabindu,** or **moon-dot** is a semantic sign with the form of a dot inside the lower half of a circle, used in scripts such as sanskrit. While it is not normally used as an independent symbol, it is a part of the om, and the dharmic seed syllables, which are used as major dharmic symbols associated with mantras and deities. While the resemblance may be accidental, the fallen monk in the first game has something resembling this on its hat as a symbol. And other variants of the same symbol show up on other chaos units' outfits. Though it may be a combination of several symbols.

**Seed syllables** are considered to be the quintessence of mantra, and the ultimate condensation of the Dharma, each containing infinite meaning in a single syllable. Om has held a special place in Indian religion since before Buddhism. In Buddhist tantra the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas are each associated with a seed syllable. Buddhism in general is associated with death in japan, due to its ties to funerals, and esoteric buddhism in particular is known for death spells. In-game, the seed syllables are associated with death skills, which are associated with chaos, and figures like douman are seen using them. In V, they are also used for light skills.

**Vajra** is a Sanskrit word meaning both thunderbolt and diamond. The vajra is the weapon of the Vedic rain and thunder-deity Indra, and is used symbolically by dharmic traditions to represent firmness of spirit, and spiritual power. When used as a symbol, sometimes two are overlaid facing different directions. It is more specifically the symbol of tantric buddhism, which chaos is heavily based on. They are seen being held by various chaotic figures in-game, such as atavaka. Although they are also seen being held by demons on other sides.

**The kila** or **phurba** is a three-sided peg, stake, knife, or nail-like ritual implement traditionally associated with Indo-Tibetan Buddhism, Bön, and Indian Vedic traditions. This ritual dagger is associated with the meditational deity Vajrakīla. This knife is often used alongside other ritual elements such as the vajra or bell. And is often used for symbolic cuts, that can represent both meditational attributes as well as actual harm to befall one's enemies. Seen being used by chaotic figures, in keeping with their tantric aesthetics, and association with violence.

**A Kartika** is a small, crescent-shaped, hand-held ritual flaying knife used in the tantric ceremonies of Vajrayana Buddhism. The kartika is said to be "one of the quintessential attributes of the wrathful Tantric deities." It is commonly known as the "knife of the dakinis. The actual dakini in many of the games is seen holding both a kartika and a phurba, and a human gaian is seen transforming into one. Although for the chaos side, the violent imagery is taken literally more often than in tantric buddhism, and it is taken in a post buddhist direction. But this depiction is continuous with other weapons being held by chaotic entities.

**Kuji-kiri grid**. The grid of kuji-kiri is a common esoteric symbol in shingon buddhism and shugendo that is visualized while chanting sacred syllables along with specific hand gestures that correspond to the lines on the grid. The grid is seen as symbol of of nine symbolic cuts through the illusion of the ordinary world that provides a basis for achieving enligtenment. It is also commonly associated with ninjas or martial arts, due to the symbology of weaponry. In smt imagine it shows up as a symbol being used by chaos as one of their major symbols, in keeping with their shingon and martial arts aesthetic.

**A tomoe** is a
Japanese abstract shape described as a swirl that resembles a comma
or the usual form of a magatama. It can show up with two in a loop or three. Futatsudomoe, is the term for a double tomoe. And this symbol shows
up used by the gaians. The double tomoe is often used to represent the spinning of the earth itself, and is also called a **firewheel**.
 The concept of cycles and change, earth, and fire making it an ideal
symbol for the gaians. It shows up on the hat of the Onmyoji. In
nocturne one is also seen in the sky over Yoyogi park. The triple version can also reflect the threefold division between man, earth, and sky.

**Pentagram**. Various forms of a star symbol, both regular and
inverted are associated with chaos as a symbol. A yellow star outline
on red banners is a symbol used in the gaian churches in both I and
II. And at these churches you can buy an item called pentagram. An
inverted pentagram is also seen when lucifer is being freed in nine. Pentagrams of various kinds are also associated with summoning in the games, and overt highlighting of this and the ritualism involved is specifically more of a chaotic attribute. Notably, while black goat heads resembling that of baphomet do show up as a symbol in the games, they are not seen inscribed on a pentagram.

**Hotness**. Chaos is associated with
heat, and its anger based presumptions. This contrasts law being
associated with coldness as seen above. This is sometimes depicted with volcanic activity or actual fire.

**Earth.** Chaos is represented with
the earth to contrast law being represented with the sky. Note that since hell is often depicted as underground, such as in dante's inferno there is a hell / earth association to draw on as well. Note that chaos is not the only side thatclaims affiliation with earth, with neutral and sometimes even law doing so.

**Dharmachakra**. The dharmachakra is one of the oldest known Buddhist symbols, most commonly used as the main symbol for buddhism itself. It has represented the Buddhadharma since the time of early Buddhism. Although this is not a common symbol of the chaos side, a buddhist boss figure is seen holding one in SMTII, and talks about serving lucifer. This is notable enough to be worth including because of the strong buddhist and chaos association in general. Note that some chaotic figures are more benign than others, like vairochana, and so these symbols may be more in use by those ones.

**Buddha statue**. In the gaian
areas of the cathedral at the end of SMTI you can see buddha statues
on an altar in the back. This ties to the associations chaos has with tantric buddhism, as well as to the radicalized social darwinist forms of zen that showed up leading into world war II. Tantric buddhism has associations with being more antinomian than other types, as well as embracing the idea of unleashing your passions, making these its links to chaos. Although chaos, while holding a buddhist aesthetic has moved past explicit buddhism, being said to have more ties to the ancient japanese polytheism and animism.

**Baphomet** is a term originally used to describe an idol or other deity that the Knights Templar were accused of worshipping and that subsequently was incorporated into disparate occult and mystical traditions. It eventually merged with the sabbatic goat image of eliphas Levi, which represented humanity's relationship to the cosmos. This later became a symbol of satanism. While the goat head pentagram is never seen, both the inverted pentagram and the black goat head are occasionally seen as chaotic symbols. And baphomet's picture is used once by mannikins.

    **The menorah** is described in the Bible as the six branched Hebrew lamp stand created by moses in the wilderness, and later used in the temple. This has been a symbol of judaism since early times, and was a symbol of early christianity also, due to its origins as a form of judaism. In Nocturne lucifer has you seek menorahs named after the Sephirot. They are called flames of life that control the flow of magatushi. There is also an item in the ps1 rerelease of SMTII called the black menorah that gives you a bonus scene with lucifer, implying association of him with the item.

    **Anarchy Symbol**. In IVA an anarchy symbol is used for chaos. However, this is only for the title screen, and they are never seen using the symbol, though they are referred to as anarchists in game. Although this is used as an insult, the fact that the title represents them as such implies that some of them see themselves this way as well. Note that while some anarchists did have a might makes right individualist mentality like chaos, this was not most anarchists, and the movement's origins had ties to more communal goals. With more hierarchical anarchists being a much later invention.

**Skulls**. In beelzebub's wing is a skull and crossbones symbol. This comes from the demonic grimoire depiction that already had this. In addition to this, many other chaotic figures will have various skull shapes used as decorations. Skulls are actually a major symbol used by good figures in tantric buddhism, giving rise to much of this association. This can symbolize the cycle of time and life, as well as represent the fierce nature of protective deities. Chaos, too, sees this cycle of life and death as an important focus of its teachings.

**Trident.** Tridents are a motif in many religions, such as being used by poseidon and shiva, as well as by christian demons. In hinduism and buddhism, the trident is known as a trishula. In hinduism the three prongs refer to various triple aspects of reality, such as past, present, and future, or creation, maintenance and destruction. As well as destruction of the three worlds by shiva, leaving only enlightenment. In megaten, the chaos side has many tridents, both because of its dharmic association as well as its demonic association, with one being held by belial or by daimon.

**Faravahar**. The faravahar is the primary symbol of zoroastrianism. While zoroastrianism as a religion is more associated with law, its main figure ahura mazda, and the associated symbol is associated with chaos because it is depicted as the god-form of asura due to the relation of dharmic and zoroastrian religion. Which has been a persistent depiction, even if a strange choice. The faravahar also shows up in the appearance of ahriman in nocturne, albeit it looks like a demonic variant of the symbol.

**Number of the beast**. The number of the beast or mark of the beast is either the number 666, or 616, being associated with demonic forces in the book of revelation. Scholars generally consider that it was a coded message to refer to the emperor nero, who at the time was known for his heavy persecution of christians. In-game, Master therion has 666 written on its banner. In keeping with crowley's claim of being the beast of revelations, and master therion being the demonic form of crowley. Notably, satan on the law side also has a 666 motif. And in nocturne, the number is equated with magatama, and you place the three magatama shaped stones in on floor 666.

**Ouroboros**. The alchemic ouroborous symbol shows up as a chaos god in strange journey. It represents the infinite, as well as unity of all things, and the various cycles within. The ouroborous is seen in-game next to figures who are shown in life stages representing birth and death, tying to the idea of it as a symbol of the cyclic nature of reality. This also tied to the chaotic focus on how destruction exists as part of the cycle to give rise to new things, and of metamorphosis. It is also depicted as a symbol of the infinite, to imply the infinite potential of this process.

**The crescent moon**. While a simple crescent moon is not a common historical japanese symbol, in smtv tsukuyomi the moon god takes a form which bears multiple of them. Tsukuyomi is not part of the standard demons of chaos however, having fought against them, and having sought a more light chaotic outcome. Smtv marks a distinction in that the amatsukami are normally not chaos leaning, being usually either neutral or law. In some games however, it shows more light chaos demons working with the regular forces of chaos, like vairochana in smtii. In addition, there is a chaos item called black moon associated with lilith in the gba version of smti. There is also a place called tower of the crescent moon used by demons in majin tensei.

**Zodiac**. Both the chinese zodiac and the western zodiac show up as motifs for chaos. The former as twelve separate bosses, and the latter as images on mitra's rock. The chinese zodiac is associated more with a twelve year cycle, whereas the western zodiac is associated with the star cycle within an individual year. Although associations with astrology may seem like an odd fit for chaos, due to its emphasis on control over your own destiny, it often has strong associations with occultism, which chaos heavily draws from. The zodiac also becomes major symbolism for devil survivor 2 as a whole, which is largely based on astrology.

**Demon sigil**. In demonology, especially associated with the goetia, sigils are pictorial signatures attributed to demons, angels, or other beings. In the ceremonial magic of the middle ages, sigils were used in the summoning of these beings and were the pictorial equivalent to their true name. Many of the demons associated with demon summoning become the basis for the fallen race in the games, and make up a major aspect of the forces of chaos. Although many of the top demons are not fallen angels, but rather the primary demons of various mythologies. Despite the prevalence of fallen angels however, their sigils are not seen in person in the games.

**Torii**. A torii or **bird abode** is a traditional Japanese gate most commonly found at the entrance of or within a Shinto shrine, where it symbolically marks the transition from the mundane to the sacred. The torii is one of a few symbols strongly associated with multiple alignments, in this case both chaos and neutral. Showing up for chaos in smti with douman, and for the entrance to the gaian temple in imagine. This has to do with chaos' ties to a radicalized version of japanese history, and its more nature oriented focus in general.

**Nature**. While they do not tend to use nature based symbols as direct symbols, one of the main motifs of chaos is nature and its association with nature, and their overall designs and dynamics tend to have this worked into it. They are called gaians to literally reflect their association with earth, and the natural world. While law based civilizations tend to focus on built structures or gardens, chaos spaces will literally have untamed nature surrounding them. And even the actual locations demons live will often be more natural structures, or ones designed to look natural like caves.

**Wrathful deities** or **fierce deities** are the fierce incarnation of enlightened beings in buddhism. They are a large part of the iconography of mahayana and vajrayana buddhism. While having a demonic appearance, they are seen as good beings who persecute evil in the name of buddhism. They are also associated heavily with tantric traditions, where they embody a kind of inner primal power one can unleash. Wrathful deities are a large tone for chaos, both showing up as statues in chaotic temples, as well as showing up as bosses for them at times. This imagery being conflated with that of the demonic.

**Asura** are violent gods in hinduism and buddhism. Although it also shows up as an actual enemy, in II an asura statue is seen on the altar an the gaian temple. The asura lord being the main chaos leader in I shows not just an eastern slant, but representing the violent gods as a positive force. The asuras are also conflated with zoroastrian ahuras in-game, with ahura mazda being depicted as the godly form of the asura lord, even though zoroastrianism as a whole is more orderly. Although asura are an entire class of being in buddhism and hinduism, in the games you tend to only see it as a singular entity, or occasionally referenced in the name of hitoshura.

**Devils**. In gaian temples there tend to be general devil looking statues for the obvious reasons. Note that although demons and devils are many of the main gaian figures in most of the games, they are not really depicted using many real life satanist symbols, save for devil statues. The closest they come being using the star symbol. The statues by their temples seem to be a combination of devils and the buddhist idea of nio statues, and in practice their use of them seems to symbolize both. Showing a blurring of the tantric practices into western demonolatry.

**Yab-Yum**. (literally, "father-mother") is a common symbol in the Buddhist art of India, Bhutan, Nepal, and Tibet. It represents the primordial union of wisdom and compassion, depicted as a male deity in sexual union with his female consort. The male figure represents compassion and skillful means, while the female partner represents insight. In the chaos ending of strange journey it shows huge figures depicted in a yab-yum-like pose. And although not tied to dharmic depictions, crowley is shown trying to perform sex rituals in multiple games.

**The** **third eye** is a mystical and esoteric concept of a speculative invisible eye which provides spiritual perception beyond ordinary sight. In certain dharmic spiritual traditions. the third eye also refers to the ajna, or brow, chakra. The third eye refers to the gate that leads to inner realms and spaces of higher consciousness. While associated with dharmic religion, other eastern religions have equivalent though less common ideas, and it was later copted by theosophic groups. It shows up on many chaos figures as a symbol not just because of the many dharmic tantra chaotic figures, but also on mem aleph. However, it is not exclusively used by chaos, but also shows up as a symbol for various law figures as well, such as satan, shekinah, or ganesha.

**Paranirvana pose**. Note that mem aleph, and her statue also look like buddha statues. Specifically that in the paranirvana pose. To represent ceasing to exist as an individual, which is what she does in SJs chaos ending. Based on maitreya's lines in iva, as well as the long term existence of buddhist chaos associations, it seems that some gaians likely seek this as a goal, to destroy their self identity and become part of the flow of the world in general. Presented as chaotic since it is dissolving into nature itself in a sense. Tde is also based on ending a cycle of rebirth to exist outside the world system.

**Mother earth**. In Iv there is a large statue of mem aleph. Though she is not just mother earth, but a composite figure of mother earth and various other influences. In practice she does come off a bit like a mother earth type figure. As well as representing primal chaos of creation.

**Phallic imagery** is common in many cultures, and especially japan. It often symbolizes fertility, both in the sense of crops as well as humans and animals, though it occasionally has other meanings. In the negative sense it can imply indulgence. In bhutan, it is a buddhist symbol associated with protection from the evil eye. On the side of chaos, the most obvious example is mara who is depicted this way based on a japanese way of using his name, and represents indulgence, but also the associated elements of life. And may derive from these buddhist images. Penis imagery also shows up in other areas, such as the cathedral of shadows.

**The chariot** is a buddhist simile about the illusion of self. Chaos inverts it with the figure of mara, showing the self as a thing to be embraced, even if illusory.

**Shimenawa.** Ropes (usually with paper sticking out) called shimenawa decorated with paper streamers called shide often surround yorishiro to make their sacredness manifest. These often show up in gaian temples. These are also used by the neutral side.

**Monstrance**. While it may not be deliberate, in iva lucifer's chair is designed in a way that looks closely like a catholic monstrance. Note that other abrahamic symbols like the menorah are also used for chaos.

## Summoning symbols

These are symbols the games associate with summoning in general, rather than with any particular side.

**The hexagram of solomon.** The hexagram of solomon is detailed in the lesser key of solomon, described as coming from solomon himself. It is used in game associated with demons, and other sigils with five points are likewise shown. Other symbols associated with summoning in
game are a triangle with a cross in it, or a cross with a five
pointed star over it.

The symbol is also used for the series in general. The summoning sigil they use to represent the series in the early games is taken from the goetia, with a few edits. Note that summoning symbols often have divine names on them. This is done with the goal of protecting the summoner from the demons with holy energy.

**The great pentacle** is another symbol from the key of solomon. In game it is seen in the beginning of nocturne at the hospital having been used for some kind of summoning ritual presumably.

At different points in the series various demon summoning sigils show up, many of which are based on real ones from real grimoires. Note that since in game people tend to summon using some kind of technology, most of the characters aren't using these symbols most of the time. At least in any visually seen way. Part of the plots revolving around how technology makes summoning much easier than it was in the past due to being able to make the conditions repeatable perfectly each time.

**Circle of Solomon and Triangle of Solomon**, magical objects/symbols used in the evocation of the seventy-two spirits of the Ars Goetia. In medieval and Renaissance Europe, goetia, or demon summoning was generally considered evil and heretical, in contrast to theurgia (theurgy) and magia naturalis (natural magic), which were sometimes considered more noble (although it is worth noting that many still considered those to be heretical as well in more orthodox circles). Heinrich Cornelius Agrippa, in his Three Books of Occult Philosophy, writes "Now the parts of ceremonial magic are goetia and theurgia. Goetia is unfortunate, by the commerces of unclean spirits made up of the rites of wicked curiosities, unlawful charms, and deprecations, and is abandoned and execrated by all laws."

This symbol on the right used for summoning the seventy two demons shows up on the bottom screen in soul hackers, in keeping with the idea of the summoming as generally having ties to solomonic magic. Due to seeing different symbols in different games, it is consistent enough to presume it is common in many cases even when not explicitly seen.

**Seal of solomon**. The **Star of David**, known in Hebrew as the **Shield of David** or **Magen David** is a generally recognized symbol of modern Jewish identity and Judaism. Its shape is that of a hexagram, the compound of two equilateral triangles. Unlike the menorah, the Lion of Judah, the shofar and the lulav, the Star of David was never a uniquely Jewish symbol, and was even used in christian churches before its first known modern use in a synagogue.

Atlus deliberately conflates this with a shinto symbol of the same appearance called the **Kagome crest.** This is related to the later games being based on jewish japanese common ancestor theory.

Interestingly, while you only see the messians use it when combined with a cross, the star of david used by itself is only seen in the jaykou manor at times, representing the general hexagram for demonic fusion similar to the demon summoning sigil as seen above. This comes from the seal of solomon, which as a legend about him having the power to control demons came from islamic literature, before making its way into later kabbalistic lore. It was originally known as the seal of solomon before getting its modern name, and was first used in reference to this alleged magical aspect before becoming a general symbol of jewish identity in general. Which is why it is associated with this in game.

**Banners of east and west**. The order of the golden dawn uses the banners of the east and west to represent the duality of light and dark, being associated with dawn and dusk. The east is the aspect of a temple in which the spiritual forces are seen as entering, and the west is where they are existing.

The symbolism of the banner of the east shows the fire of creation descending on the primordial waters. The cross represents the self, and the tau represents the individual it resides inside. And the self is seen as being reflected in the macrocosm. While the banner of the east uses a six pointed star, versions of it also show up in the game using a five opinted star, such as in nocturne. Though the six pointed version does show up in SMTII, both being used in the summoning doll room, and being used by the adept and neophyte units.

The banner of the west contains a logo associated with the golden dawn itself. This logo reflects the divine light which emanades down to bring stability to reality. The triangle also represents the top three sephirot, seen as the primordial ones giving rise to the others.

## The cycle

These are symbols associated primarily with the world-cycle of rebirth.

**The womb realm** is the partner mandala to the diamond realm, inhabited by the five compassion buddhas. It represents the active world, and the potential for growth. It is associated with the young stage of vairochana, to contrast the diamond realm being associated with the final realization.

It shows up in the title screen for smti, and it shows up as the vortex world in nocturne. In addition to this, the cycle of gods is called the mandala system. Making the universal cycle take on a tone resembling vajrayana buddhist mandala symbolism across the series. While neutral uses the diamond realm as a spiritual realm, there is no direct evidence of them using the womb realm in association with it.

**The cosmic egg,** or **world egg** or is a mythological motif found in the creation myths of many cultures and civilizations. Typically, the world egg is a beginning of some sort, and the universe or some primordial being comes into existence by "hatching" from the egg, sometimes lain on the primordial waters of the Earth.

In megaten, it is often used as a depiction of how a new world comes about. In iva they call it this outright. In nocturne, though they don't use the term, kagutsuchi is meant to look slightly like an egg at first, and the magatushi one collects looks like sperm, treating the creation of the new world like a new being. And in strange journey, the cosmic eggs are a little different, being things one needs not to make an entirely new world, but to change the connotations of the existing one heavily. This relation calling to mind a microcosm / macrocosm type pattern, by associating a world with the concept of an individual.

**Buddhas**. In both nocturne and V, the cycle is depicted using symbolism of buddhas. In nocturne, the miroku sutra is depicted as personifying the cycle of rebirth as the entity maitreya. Maitreya here isn't necessarily any single entity, but lumps together those who give rise to the new world, and kagutsuchi, which gives them the power of being. Kagutsuchi itself is depicted as the sun, in the center of the womb realm, which associates it with vairochana. Hence, the relationship of the reason creator to kagutsuchi is akin to that of a buddha and vairochana. Likewise, in V, the cycle is depicted as watched over by amitabha.

**Angels**. While angels are primarily associated with the law side, angels are sometimes also associated with the cycle itself, with some shown to remain, working for the ushering in of a new paradigm regardless the alignment.

**Sephirot**. Kagutsuchi also functions as a representation of sephirot, inasmuch as you are recreating the story of the shattering of the vessels when making a new world.

## Other Symbols.

**Suns and stars** tend to of course be used as a common symbol by every side. Showing up used by amaterasu, virochana, lucifer, maria, elohim, etc. This is because these symbols are common in religion in general, especially for high figures, to represent lighting the way somewhere. One example being khonsu in v, using the egyptian sun disk.

**The Chi Rho** is one of the earliest forms of christogram, formed by superimposing the first two greek for christ in such a way that the vertical stroke of the rho intersects the center of the chi. The symbol was however used before the time of christ. Being one of the early symbols, it was popular before even the cross became used as a common christian motif.

While the symbol is not being seen used by the messians, in part due to their downplaying of jesus in particular, in persona 1 it is seen being used by a christian highschool. Note that persona is in an alternate world where the real religions still exist, rather than forming into the ones that are seen in mainline.

**Alpha and omega** are the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet, and a title of Christ and God in later versions of the Book of Revelation. This pair of letters are used as Christian symbols, and are often combined with the Cross, Chi-rho, or other Christian symbols, signifying being all-encompassing and as both the source of and the goal of existence.

While it does not show up as a seperate symbol, it is seen as part of summoning symbols, including the one used as the series logo itself. And yhvh's theme in mtii is called omega. Interestingly these summoning symbols are not exclusively used by followers of yhvh, being used by all the sides.

**The ankh** is a cross with a looped top which, besides the
concept of life, also symbolized eternal life, the morning sun, the male
 and female principles, the heavens and the earth. Its form embodied
these concepts in its key-like shape; in carrying the *ankh*, one
 was holding the key to the secrets of existence. The union of opposites
 (male and female, earth and heaven) and the extension of earthly life
to eternal, time to eternity, were all represented in the form of the
looped cross. Some suggest that its popularity was a heavy inspiration
on the christian symbol of the cross. Osiris is seen using one in game,
and there is a magatama called ankh in nocturne. Akira is also seen wearing one in if...

**Zeus' lighting bolt**. One of the most well known religious symbols in general is the lightning bolt of zeus. while zeus himself does not often show up in the games, with yhvh often acting as a stand in for father gods in general, he does show up in the remake of strange journey with his normal lightning bolt, and occasionally in other games. In this appearance he seems to be working under mem aleph on the chaos side as one of the prison wardens. Though in his v appearance he seems to be less chaotic.

**Chinese dragons** are legendary creatures in Chinese mythology. These dragons have many animal-like forms such as turtles and fish, but are most commonly depicted as snake-like with four legs. They traditionally symbolize potent and auspicious powers over nature, especially over water. The dragon is also considered a symbol of power, strength, and good luck for people who are worthy. During the days of Imperial China, the Emperor of China usually used the dragon as a symbol of his imperial power and strength. They are seen as many different demons, but not associated with any one side in particular. A side mission in iv does suggest they have a chaotic leaning however.

**The valknut.** Odin uses the valknut, a symbol
associated with death, the transition from life to death, and Odin.
Note that odin is implied to be a neutral leaning character in iva. Albeit one of an odd sort who wants humans to be set up so that an equal amount follows each god. And so which is very different from standard neutral ideology. Odin also uses norse runes as symbols.

**Buddhist prayer wheels**. Amala drums Look like buddhist prayer wheels. These seem to relate to control over some aspects of the universe in general, rather than being a thing used by any given side.

**Eye of horus**. While they are not associated with any of the in-game sides in particular, in many of the games the egyptian gods show up using the eye of horus symbol. In addition to this, Osiris is seen using the ankh and the crook and flail. Note that while crowley also used the eye of horus mixed with the eye of providence as a symbol, crowley in game is just seen using the eye of providence in its normal form.

**Wings of rebellion**. In persona 5 the phrase wings of rebellion is used to specify freedom, since wings imply ability to move in any direction. In interesting contrast, in two different games law is referred to as clipped wings. Which is ironic, since the law side has the most winged entities.

**Tripundra** is a symbol in hinduism that represents shiva's three qualities of will, knowledge, and action. It also occasionally represents shiva's trishula, or the three gods shiva, brahma, and vishnu. While shiva himself is often depicted with this symbol, his followers often apply it to their own heads as well as a sign of respect. Since it is often applied using ash, it has a similar meaning to christian ashes on ash wednesday, of one day returning to dust. In-game, the later versions of shiva seen past soul hackers are shown with this on their head, and in V he has an attack that makes it appear as a symbol. While shiva is sometimes seen as a chaos demon, the most notable appearance of him, in V, does not have him aligned with chaos, and so this can be seen as a distinct symbol from those used by the sides.

**Tilaka**. Krishna in iva has a U shape with a dot
inside of it as his own symbol. This is known as a tilaka, and
krishna in hindu artwork is often seen depicted with one like he has in game. (note this is a different symbol from the
simple dot on forehead called bindi, despite also generally being
used on a forehead, neck or hand). Note that krishna is a law leaning
character, who like shijima is meant to bear similar ideological connotations without being called law in particular. He also has a lotus symbol on his belt, as well as
holding one also. The tilaka is also used as a symbol by maya, one of the chaos mothers.

**A stupa** is a buddhist mound-like or hemispherical structure containing relics that is used as a place of meditation. Baal avatar's head in nocturne may be meant to reflect one.

**Yggdrasil** in Norse cosmology, is an immense and central sacred tree. Around it exists all else, including the Nine Worlds. It is also used as a symbol of death and rebirth. The branches of Yggdrasil extend far into the heavens, and the tree is supported by three roots that extend far away into other locations. It is especially known for being the place odin hung himself for a prolonged period. In the games it shows up as a demon, but notably the demon is implied to only be a small part of the whole, rather than the entirity of the tree itself. And as such it functions as something with an implied wide scope relevance.

**Star of Ishtar** or **Star of Inanna** is a Mesopotamian symbol of the ancient Sumerian goddess Inanna. Note that while ishtar and inana are sometimes hypothesized to have had an origin as different gods, on the historical record they are treated as synonyms. The owl was also one of Ishtar's primary symbols. Ishtar is mostly associated with the planet Venus, which is also known as the morning star. In the games, ishtar and inana show up as two seperate demons. Inana is seen using the symbol of the star,as well as having a curved reed, another symbol associated with ishtar. Though the demon called ishtar is not seen using either of these symbols.

**Athame** is a term for a ceremonial dagger used by neopagans and occultists. They can be gotten in several of the games.

**Buddha eyes** show up as a symbol being used by the fortune teller in II. Presumably to highlight some type of transcendental ability of vision. Dagda's face may also be based on this symbol, but it is too vague to say.

**Stonehenge** like structures show up as places of power in II. Mars pillar, etc. They are referred to as a structure called The Seven Pillars of Solomon, and are needed to open the gate to the expanse.

**Inkblots**. In nocturne, when aradia appears on yuko she takes the form of the inkblots you would tend to see in a Rorschach test.

**Caduceus** is the staff carried by Hermes in Greek mythology and consequently by Hermes Trismegistus in Greco-Egyptian mythology. The same staff was also borne by heralds in general, for example by Iris, the messenger of Hera. Although commonly in modern day used as a symbol for medicine, this is based on the confusion of it with a similar symbol, the Rod of Asclepius. The caduceus itself was not associated with medicine in ancient mythology. Anubis is seen holding one in-game in reference to Hermanubis, a roman merging of the figures of hermes and abubis. Hermanubis tending to look like anubis, but holding the caduceus. One is also used by baphomet. And maruki's originais persona in p5r is shaped like one, likely in reference to him wanting to heal the world through a medical lens. It is also a law aligned weapon in smti.

**Kitsune**. Foxes are worshiped as kami and are the messengers of the rice-god, Inari. The kami of food, specifically grains, is the chief deity of Inari shrines. Therefore, the Inari fox is the symbol of fertility and rice. Foxes are often seen at the entrances of shrines as guardians and protectors and are considered to be the sign of good luck. Various references to this appears in the games, such as with the fox in persona 4, the outfit of yusuke in p5, and kitsune occasionally showing up as a demon, although this is relatively uncommon.

**The red dragon** in the book of revelations refers to satan, implied to be in a struggle against a woman and her son. The story also details how he fought against michael, ultimately being cast down. While the satan of the story is more analogous to the figure of lucifer in the games, the satan of revelations is often equates more to the figure satan. While satan is normally a law demon, when he shows up in the figure of the red dragon, it is in the game apocalypse, where he implies he doesn't care what direction the world ends up going, being more interested in seeing whether you and your party can be a valid guide for it.

**Saturn's sickle**. The astrological symbol for saturn based on saturn's sickle is shown printed on the macca coins that demons use for currency. Interestingly, the description in iva instead says that it has the mark of jupiter imprinted on it that represents jupiter's thunderbolt or eagle. Whether this means that there is different coins or it is a mistake is unknown. While the coins are minted by lucifuge and were originally used only by demons, it is not a chaotic symbol per say, being used just for currency. After the apocalypse, even humans begin using macca as currency.

**The wheel of fortune** was a common allegorical symbol in European iconography. Usually it is shown with the goddess fortuna from roman mythology presiding over it. In game she is shown being made of part wheel. In later esotericism it became merged with the idea of the wheels of ezekiel.

**The seashell**. The white conch shell is one of the eight auspicious symbols of mahayana buddhism. In nocturne, baal avatar's arm looks like it may be meant to be a seashell. Since nocturne is heavily based on buddhism, this is possibly on purpose, especially since baal already is associated with sea imagery.

**Om** is part of the iconography of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism (mainly hinduism) that has been around since ancient times. In Hinduism,
Om is one of the most important spiritual symbols (pratima). It
refers to Atman (soul, self) and Brahman (ultimate reality, universe, truth, divine, supreme spirit, cosmic
principles,). Om is also the primordial sound associated with the creation of
universe from nothing.

While the other form of the on is seen used by the gaians in smti, the more common form seen to the right is seen in digital devil saga as a symbol on the embryon base.

**The serpent's eye**, or **circumpunct** is a symbol that over time has represented a large variety of things, such as the sun, mist, or the eye of a snake or fish. In the later games it is seen being used as a symbol by Ame-no-Uzume, though the reason for her use of it is unknown. In an interview it states that her use of it is not normal, but gives no reason for the association. In the later games, amatukami are implied to be law leaning in many cases, and even in the earlier games they use the law theme when you see them. However, most times you see them they don't act like part of the law side, instead acting more neutral. So the particular alignment associations of the use of this symbol are left more ambiguous.

**Torch**. The torch has history as a symbolism of inspiration and knowledge, (when viewed in a promethean sense), as well as the idea of freedom or positive outcomes in general, when viewed in terms of lighting a way somewhere. While it is often used in a nonreligious context, sometimes you will see religious figures or symbolism using it to highlight the idea of a figure leading humanity. In persona 5 royal, maruki's treasure is a torch, which is used by him to convey this idea. Because he sees people as in need of someone to lead them, and his world as the idea of him doing so.

**Snowflake**. In keeping with his role as being king of the jacks, king frost has a snowflake symbol on a necklace around his neck. Notably, jack is a fairy, and there is often seen as seperate leaders of the fairies as a whole, leaving the role of kind frost ambiguous.

**Mandala.** Maitreya is seen using a
mandala, though in game this isn't depicted as a symbol per say, but a spell. Note that since the gaians in game follow him, and buddhist things lean chaos in most games, their symbols can indirectly be related to him and vice versa as well.

**Swastika**. The swastika is an ancient religious symbol found in various places across the globe. Although appropriated by the nazi party, it continues to be used in indian religions such as hinduism and buddhism. The word swastika comes from Sanskrit svastika, meaning "conducive to well-being". In Hinduism, the right-facing symbol is called *swastika*, symbolizing *surya* ("sun"), prosperity and good luck, while the left-facing symbol is called sauwastika, symbolising night or tantric aspects of Kali. In Buddhist symbolism it represents the auspicious footprints of the Buddha. In several major Indo-European religions, the swastika symbolises lightning bolts, representing the thunder god and the king of the gods, such as Indra, zeus, jupiter, or thor. In-game it is seen used by nemissa in soul hackers.

**Boli** are occult objects used by the Segu people to designate leaders, and which are seen as a microcosm of the universe. Their surfaces are formed by packing, layering, and blending sacrificial materials into an indeterminate form that is believed to be a source of mystical power deliberately inaccessible to the uninitiated. Such objects play an essential role within Bamana spiritual life. The primary function of a boli is to accumulate and control the naturally occurring life force called nyama for the spiritual benefit of the community. Their design is a likely inspiration for the design of noah in nocturne. Although for what reason is unclear. Possibly based on the fact that as boli are continually added to, the original design is lost, corresponding to the claim that noah is a forgotten god.

**Tokisada's banner**. Tokisada, also known as Amakusa Shiro, was the nominal leader of the shimabara rebellion, although as he was only 16 years of age, it was suspected that he was a mere figurehead for someone else. The shimabara rebellion was a rebellion of japanese catholics against the shogunate, due to its crackdowns on religious practice, which, although it initially achieved some sucesses, ultimately ended in failure, with them and all those with them being massacred. Tokisada shows up as a demon in the games, bearing a banner which looks like the one he bears in real life.

**Rainbow**. In soul hackers 2, the covenants are different colors in order to allude to the symbol of the rainbow from the noah story.

**Various alchemic symbols** show up in game, such as ouroboros or Mercurius, often as actual demons. Mercurious represents not the god mercury, but mercury as quicksilver, the element which was considered important to alchemists.

Its form also represents the volatile transformative nature of alchemic work in general. Its heads combined as it appears in game also forms into the symbol for mercury. Alchemy is depicted as an important undercurrent of the games in general, often being related to demon fusions, or general element demons being considered as having a unique role of empowering others.

**Magatama**. Various members of various sides are seen using magatama beads. In addition to this, there is an entire race of small entities in nocturne that are called magatamas. One notable example is the yatagarasu is seen wearing them who shows up on the law side in strange journey.

**TV**. In persona 4, tvs represent sight. Specifically your ability to see false images, but also the ability to see truth. They represent the concern of giving up consideration of the truth in favor of seeing things how one wants to see them. Which is depicted as a tv, since tvs show you what you want them to, bringing up the question of whether what you want to see is the truth.

**Jizo statue**. Jizo (long name **Kṣitigarbha**) is a bodhisattva known for his vow to take responsibility for the instruction of all beings between the death of Gautama Buddha and the rise of Maitreya, as well as his vow not to achieve Buddhahood until all hells are emptied. He is therefore often regarded as the bodhisattva of hell-beings, as well as the guardian of children. His statues are often considered tied to the protection of or lamentation over the spirit of lost children. Since they are seen as dying without the chance to gain good karma, he is seen as protecting them or smuggling them into the afterlife in the sleeves of his robe. An item called mozzy jizo exists in the remake of smti that gives visionary information on douman's past.. Jizo himself shows up as a protector of the weak in the demon world in majin tensei ii, but again, isnt associated with any given side.

**The lotus** in buddhism and hinduism is a symbol of purity and enlightenment. In hinduism it is seen being held by various gods, especially vishnu. In Buddhist symbolism the lotus is symbolic of purity of the body, speech, and mind
 as while rooted in the mud, its flowers blossom on long stalks as if
floating above the muddy waters of attachment and desire. It is also
symbolic of detachment as drops of water easily slide off its petals.

The lotus is seen being used by various figures in the games. Law is seen using it combined with a cross as a symbol. And in apocalypse, vishnu flynn is seen using it as a symbol. This ties to it as a commonly used symbol in dharmic religion in general. Shesha's head in apocalypse is also meant to look like a lotus.

**Time and death**. Various demons have either scythes or hourglasses as symbols. Most notably pale rider who biblically is associated with death, or the demon macabre or father time who has an hourglass. The angel sariel also holds a scythe, looking like a death-like figure. So it is something that shows up for multiple alignments.

**Sun and horns**. The goddess hathor is generally depicted with horns, between which lies the circle of the sun with a cobra surrounding it. As a demon, hathor shows up in game likewise bearing this appearance. However, this appearance is not limited to only her. Lucifuge also shows up with a similar headdress, with something between horns that seems to represent the general shape. Though it is not made clear why this symbolis associated with lucifuge in particular. Since hathor is a law demon, that makes this symbol something that shows up for both sides.

**The letter V**. The velvet room seems to use a gold lettter V with a wreath around it as a symbol. Presumably in reference to the word velvet.

**Bat logo**. The vampire hunter Kresnik in game uses a logo which looks near identical to batman's except for its red color, and the fact that it has eyes. He also has a red cross on his forehead.

**Fractals**. In persona 5, mementos has red fractal designs on many of its floors. Although no explicit reasom for this is given, one possibility is to signify that there is a repeating pattern between the individual and society. In IV, there are also slightly fractal looking designs in purgatorium, representing the chaotic aspect of law.

**Blue butterflies**. In persona, the denizens of the velvet room and their leader philemon can take the form of blue butterflies. Since ancient greece, the winged form of a butterfly was a symbol for the human soul. In ancient Greek the word for butterfly is "psyche" which means "soul". As such, it is a symbol relevant to the human mind in general. Though note again however that in game the characters are not using this as a symbol directly, but rather it is something they are capable of taking the form of. In contrast, nyarlathotep appears as a black butterfly.

**The Kuzunoha Clan emblem** seen in the devil summoner games looks similar to a yin yang symbol, but without the sides being different colors, and with the dot parts replaced with an open and closed eye.

**Chakras**. A chakra is an energy centre in the human body as taught
 in Indian yoga and some related cultures. Chakras are also believed in
by some New Age adherents. Chakra means 'wheel' in Sanskrit. A chakra is
 an area in the body connected with life energy. There are
 seven chakras in the body - each is an interface for the flow of life
energy. A chakra vitalizes a physical body and is associated with
interactions of a physical or mental nature.

In digital devil saga the
areas in the junkyard are named after the chakras, giving a tone of the
process as one of development. The junkyard also has various other hindu symbols in it, and those who lived there were referred to as asuras by those outside.

**Arimanius** is a term for the mithraic mysteries version of ahriman, seen in a more benign light. He is depicted as a lion faced deity, with statues of him being a fairly common motif found in the temples of the mysteries. Very little is known about the original symbol, save for a seeming association with time. It may also be mixed with the idea of the demiurge. This design gets used for mithra in his appearance for shijima, which has a mithraic mysteries tone. And is later used for mithra when on the side of chaos. It may also be an inspiration for the demon demiurge, who has a simialr snake wrapped around him.

**Fish**. In buddhism, the double fish are one of the eight auspicious symbols, and symbolize freedom and the lack of being stuck in samsara, due to the ability of fish to move in any direction. In east asia in general, the koi is a symbol of luck, or rebellion and willingness to stand out. While some random demons take the form of fish, the most notable uses are baal and maria using it as a symbol, in ties to historical uses from different areas. Although, notably, none of the in game used of the symbol seem to closely match the common depictions seen in east asia.

**Cat paw**. Neko shogun has banners with cat paws on them.

**Smiley face**. Both jack frost and king frost use smiley faces as symbols.

**Constructivism** is an early twentieth-century art movement founded in 1915 by Vladimir Tatlin and Alexander Rodchenko. constructivist art aimed to reflect modern industrial society and urban space. The movement rejected decorative stylization in favour of the industrial assemblage of materials. Constructivists were in favour of art for propaganda and social purposes, and were associated with Soviet socialism, the Bolsheviks and the Russian avant-garde. Many of the menus in p5 tactica draw on this artstyle in order to reflect the idea of revolution. This is not the only marxist reference in the game, since the persona ernesto also bears a yellow star, and is named after a marxist revolutionary.

**U.S.Flag**. While the sides themselves are not inherently tied to specific locations, SMTI does open with a situation where thor representing law is tied to the us, and the conspiracy is implied to be using it for its own ends. So while law's goal is ultimately not to propagate the continuation of the us, but to usher in a global society, the us flag is associated with the actions of thor in early game. This ties to the fact that while law's specific goal is not something that is propagated by many in the west, it is based on archetypal ideas of more western ideas, and so is depicted as having taken more root there. The US flag is one of the visionary items, giving you some backstory about thorman telling the president that the demon invasion had advanced too far, and so they needed to use nukes to contain it.

**Japanese flag**. In contrast with law's association with the us in early game SMTI, chaos is associated with imperial japan, and an exaggerated iteration of it (in contrast with neutral, which is meant to reflect a more moderate iteration). While law is not particularly tied to the us except in that it is where the conspiracy took root, chaos is more tied to japan in that gotou begins the game as a kind of radical japanese nationalist. However, once gotou is defeated, while chaos still retains a Japanese aesthetic, its ties to japan as a whole significantly weaken due to japan collapsing and becoming a wasteland. The soldiers called suicide unit who work under gotou have japanese flags on their hachimaki headbands.

**Rainbow flag.** The rainbow flag or pride flag is a symbol of LGBT pride and LGBT social movements. Using a rainbow flag as a symbol of LGBT pride began in San Francisco, California, but eventually became common at LGBT rights events worldwide. Although the original design had eight stripes, the main version which became the standard was cut down to six. Though different variants of it are still being developed, and there are many spinoff associated flags such as the bisexual pride flag. Though thought of as primarily a flag, pride flags are also often depicted on buttons and other clothes. While it is not highly noticeable, in the rerelease of persona 3, one of the students is shown with a rainbow pride pin on their bag.