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Why Do We Associate the Heart with Love? The Fascinating Origins of a Universal Symbol
How the Heart Became the Symbol of Love
The heart is one of the most recognized symbols of love and affection. From medieval poetry to modern emojis, its stylized shape instantly evokes feelings of passion and devotion.
But how did the human heart — an essential organ of the cardiovascular system — become associated with love? The answer lies in a long history shaped by myths, cultural traditions, and artistic influences.
The Heart in Ancient Times: Symbolism and Mythology
Long before it was linked to romantic love, the heart carried deep meanings in various ancient cultures. The ancient Egyptians believed the heart was the center of thought, emotions, and the soul. In the afterlife judgment ritual, the god Anubis weighed a person’s heart to determine their worthiness for eternal life.
In Ancient Greece, philosopher Aristotle considered the heart the source of all emotions, while the brain was merely a cooling organ. This idea reinforced the belief that the heart was deeply connected to human feelings and passions.
In Roman mythology, Cupid (Eros in Greek mythology) was associated with love and desire. While there…
