The Symbolism/Spirtuality Behind the Pinecone and possible 3rd Eye Connection

[HungerNThirst4R]

So I was reading an old thread in which the idea of activating your pineal gland (referred to sometimes as the third eye) for spiritual achievement was discussed in regards to Catholicism. forums.catholic-questions.org/showthread.php?t=764022

But upon reading up on the topic further, (EXLAIMER : I am not trying to practice this I understand the function of the gland on a logical level and how the hormonal effects can definitely make people feel something perceived as “spiritual” especially when DMT comes into play.), the pine cone symbol which is also the shape of the gland is found in numerous cultures. Now, while seeing this symbol repeated in numerous pagan religions/cultures is to be expected, what peaked my curiosity is its alleged occurrence in Catholicism.

For example, the Fontana della Pigna (Fountain of the Pinecone), in the Vatican. Now it was supposedly made in pre-Christian Rome but still stands there today. I choose not to dwell on this too much being that much Pagan Roman Art was also saved and placed in Vatican Museums and such to preserve the culture.

But, the pinecone is also found in other symbols. Some skeptics compare the old Papal Crown to a pinecone because it is literally the same shape, it is also depicted on the Papal coat of arms. We also see pinecones in many Christmas time decorations.

So my question is, is there some type of Catholic symbolism behind the pinecone? Is it related at all to what other religions/cultures/spiritualties believe about the pinecone?

 

[HungerNThirst4R]

I guess no one wanted to take a stab at this one

 

[Schrodinger]

I guess no one wanted to take a stab at this one

Good question and I am sorry no one seems to have an answer.

I found this thread in my own search for trying to understand why there are so many pagan symbols within Catholicism and in Rome.

I am a confused Protestant that is sincerely curious about the Catholic view of things and open to the idea of eventually feeling compelled to convert.

Unfortunately, I have allowed myself to take in some pretty vicious articles and YouTube videos about the pagan roots and symbols found in Catholicism (the type of stuff put out by angry KJV only guys) and it has left me in a real mess.

I am hoping a little pro-Catholic dialogue and balanced research will give some proper context and clear some stuff up.

And with that I am bumping this thread…

 

[Schrodinger]

Thank you.

That is what makes it hard to pin down. The meanings of symbols can change with time while concealing what is ( or was) at the core.

One drawing can have several subjective interpretations. I can draw a simple fish and one guy might think “fishing allowed here,” another “food,” another “Christian,” and yet another might go off the deep end with fertility and mandorlas.

One theme that I got from the inflammatory stuff that I read and that I am having trouble letting go of is the idea that symbols usually have a couple of meanings. One for the masses and a deeper meaning for the select few.

 

[Schrodinger]

Thanks again, but I am not sure I completely understand the end of the last sentence.

You are right, of course, the owners of these vitriolic websites do appear to consider themselves special as in a “select few” but with an air of pride at being a whistleblower.

I see what you mean about a symbol not immediately having to be called evil. A hammer can either be a tool or a murder weapon as it is all about context, intent, and application.

I will knock off this symbolic witchhunt and put time into reading something more fruitful that will help me grow.

I appreciate it.