You often call it luck when life seems to bend in your favor.
But what if what you call luck is really alignment, a moment when your energy meets the universe halfway?
Everything in this universe moves through energy, vibration, and frequency. When your energy resonates at the right vibration, you naturally attract good fortune, harmony, and peace into your life.
There are many ways to align your energy with this universal rhythm, but the ancients discovered one of the most powerful methods of all: symbols. They understood that these sacred emblems spoke directly to the subconscious mind, bypassing logic and helping you align your energy to the vibration of good luck.
In this article, let’s look at 54 ancient symbols of good luck that were believed to open the pathways of prosperity and invite the universe to work in your favor.
Find a symbol that calls to your spirit. Keep it close, meditate on it, or use it into your daily spiritual practice. Let its energy awaken your inner power and draw blessings into your life that you truly deserve.
So let’s begin.
54 Ancient Symbols of Good Luck from Around the World
1. Double fish
The double fish is one of the eight auspicious symbols (Astamangala) in Buddhism and Hinduism. It represents happiness, fertility, good luck, and freedom. The fish are shown to swim in a circular motion with one following the other representing the infinite cyclic nature of the universe. In some interpretations, they also represent the Divine Masculine and Divine Feminine that form the basis of all creation.
Fish, particularly, Koi Fish, Goldfish and Arowana are seen as a lucky symbols in Chinese, Hebrew, Ancient Egyptian, Tunisian, and Japanese cultures.
In Feng Shui, fish are used to activate yang energy, which is associated with wealth and abundance. Similarly, in Vastu Shastra, fish are thought to absorb negative energies and invite positivity when kept in the home.
2. Magic squares
Magic squares are numerical arrangements where the sum of each row, column, and diagonal is the same. In various cultures, they’re believed to have mystical properties and believed to bring good luck.
A popular magic square is the Lo Shu Square (as shown in the image below) from ancient China. It is a 3×3 square containing the numbers 1 to 9, where every row, column, and diagonal adds up to 15.
This square is associated with good luck and divine balance of the five elements (as the number of the central square is 5). In Feng Shui, it is used as an energetic map to bring alignment to a space. In Hinduism, this square is linked to the Sun God.
Another well-known magic square is the Chautisa (34) Yantra, a 4×4 square found in many ancient Hindu temples. It contains the numbers 1 to 16 arranged so that every row, column, and diagonals adds up to 34.
This square is associated with the planet Jupiter and is believed to attract prosperity and wisdom.
What’s interesting about this square is that in addition to the rows, columns, and diagonals, each 2×2 sub-square also sums to 34. Even the four corner numbers and the four central numbers add to 34. This makes it one of the most mathematically balanced magic squares known.
Another popular square in Hindu tradition is the Kuber-Lakshmi Yantra, associated with the deities of wealth, Kuber and Lakshmi. This magic square totals 72 and is believed to enhance wealth and prosperity.
Historically, people carried magic squares as amulets for protection and good luck or placed them in their homes to harmonize energies, and attract good fortune.
3. Yuanbao
Yuanbao are gold or silver ingots that were used as currency in ancient China. Now, they’re popular symbols of wealth and prosperity. Often given as gifts during Chinese New Year, these boat-shaped ingots are believed to attract financial luck. You might see decorative Yuanbao in homes or businesses, or find them as charms on bracelets and necklaces.
4. Omamori
Omamori are Japanese amulets sold at Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples. These small, decorated pouches contain prayers or lucky charms for various purposes – health, love, good luck, safe travels, and more. They’re meant to be carried but not opened, to keep the luck inside. At the end of the year, many people return their old Omamori to the shrine and get new ones.
There are several items in different cultures that serve similar purposes to the Japanese Omamori. These are often small, portable objects believed to bring good luck or protection. Here are some examples:
- Nazar amulets (Middle East and Mediterranean): A blue eye-shaped amulet believed to protect against the evil eye. It’s commonly seen hanging in homes, cars, or worn as jewelry.
- Gris-gris (West African and Voodoo traditions): Small cloth bags containing herbs, oils, and other items, created for various purposes like protection, luck, or love.
- Milagros (Latin America): Small metal charms in various shapes, often pinned to religious statues or carried as personal talismans for specific blessings.
- Red string bracelet (Kabbalah, Judaism): Worn around the wrist for protection and to ward off misfortune.
- Phra Kruang: In Thailand, these sacred amulets blessed by monks are very popular for protection and good fortune.
- Anting-anting: These are amulets or talismans in the Philippines, often containing Latin prayers or occult symbols.
5. Daruma Doll
Daruma dolls are Japanese good luck charms based on Bodhidharma, the founder of Zen Buddhism. These round, red dolls come with blank eyes. When making a wish or starting a goal, you paint in one eye. When the wish comes true or the goal is achieved, you paint in the other eye.
Daruma dolls are also symbols of perseverance and resilience, as they always return to an upright position when knocked down.
6. Endless knot
The Endless Knot (also known as lucky knot or eternal knot) is one of Buddhism’s eight auspicious symbols. Its intertwined lines represent the interconnectedness of all things and the cyclical nature of existence.
In Hinduism, this symbol is called SreeVatsa which means ‘connected to Shree’. Shree refers to goddess Lakshmi – the goddess of wealth and prosperity.
As a symbol of good luck, it’s believed to bring long life and prosperity.
7. Lotus (Padma)
The lotus flower holds deep significance in many Asian cultures, particularly in Buddhism and Hinduism. Rising from muddy waters to bloom in beauty, it symbolizes purity, enlightenment, and rebirth.
As a symbol of good luck, the lotus represents spiritual growth and the strength to overcome obstacles.
8. Conch Shell
The conch shell is considered auspicious in Hinduism and Buddhism. Its spiraling shape is associated with the expanding universe, and its sound is believed to dispel negative energy.
In Hindu tradition, blowing a conch shell is thought to bring good fortune and ward off evil spirits. As a symbol, it represents the divine sound of creation and is often seen in religious imagery and ceremonies.
9. Dharma Chakra
The Dharma Chakra, or Wheel of Law, is a significant symbol in Buddhism and Hinduism. Its eight spokes represent the Noble Eightfold Path of Buddhism as taught by the Buddha. These are as follows:
- Right View: Seeing life clearly, understanding reality as it is.
- Right Intention: Choosing thoughts rooted in kindness and clarity.
- Right Speech: Speaking truthfully and avoiding harm with words.
- Right Action: Acting in ways that are ethical and non-harmful.
- Right Livelihood: Earning a living without causing harm to others.
- Right Effort: Directing energy toward what is good and constructive.
- Right Mindfulness: Being fully aware of the present moment.
- Right Concentration: Training the mind to stay focused and steady.
Together, these eight form a path toward inner peace, and awakening, and thereby attracting positive energy and good fortune into your life.
10. Celtic Shield Knot
This ancient Celtic symbol consists of interwoven knots forming a shield-like shape.
In ancient Celtic culture, this symbol was carved into stones, worn as amulets, and placed on homes for protection. It was believed to act as a shield, warding off negative energy and bringing safety, strength, and good fortune.
11. Shree Yantra
The Shree Yantra is a complex geometric figure in Hindu Tantra, representing the cosmos and the human body. It’s considered one of the most powerful good luck symbols, believed to attract wealth, prosperity, and positive energy.
Meditating on its intricate design is said to bring balance and harmony. Many keep a Shree Yantra in their homes or workplaces to enhance fortune and success.
12. Star of Lakshmi
This eight-pointed star is associated with Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth and prosperity. It is created by two overlapping squares and is said to represent the 8 forms the goddess. These are as follows:
- Adi-Lakshmi – Goddess of new beginnings.
- Dhairya-Lakshmi – Goddess of courage.
- Dhaniya-Lakshmi – Goddess of food and nourishment.
- Gaja-Lakshmi – Goddess of force and influence.
- Santana-Lakshmi – Goddess of fertility and familial wellbeing.
- Vijaya-Lakshmi – Goddess of victory and achievements.
- Vidya-Lakshmi – Goddess of knowledge and wisdom.
- Dhana-Lakshmi – Goddess of material wealth.
Often used in Yantra designs or as a decorative element, the Star of Lakshmi is thought to open pathways to success and material comforts. Some people place it in their homes or businesses to invite positive energy and financial luck.
13. Paper fan
In Chinese culture, the paper fan is more than just a cooling device – it’s also a symbol of good fortune. The way it expands is thought to represent growing prosperity and opportunities.
Decorative fans often feature auspicious symbols or lucky phrases. Gifting a fan is considered a gesture of wishing someone good luck and a bright future.
14. Hexagram
The hexagram, or six-pointed star, is a powerful symbol in various cultures. In Judaism, it’s known as the Star of David and in Hinduism as the Shiv-Shakti Star.
The hexagram consists of two equilateral triangles, one pointing upward and the other downward, joined at the center. The upward triangle represents the divine masculine, while the downward triangle represents the divine feminine. Their union symbolizes source energy and creation.
Carrying the hexagram or meditating on its form is believed to bring balance within, which in turn helps attract good luck and prosperity.
In Hinduism, this star is drawn in front of homes to attract wealth and prosperity.
15. Tree of Life
The Tree of Life is a universal symbol found across many ancient cultures and religions. It represents growth, renewal, and abundance.
The Tree of Life also reflects the principle of correspondence: As above, so below; as within, so without.
Though unseen, the roots are what sustain the tree. The stronger they are, the more the branches can grow and flourish. In the same way, your inner state shapes your outer reality.
That is what the Tree of Life reminds you: to reconnect with your inner self for creating an outer reality that attracts luck and prosperity.
Check out this article to explore 15 different versions of the Tree of Life found across cultures around the world.
16. Solar Cross
The Solar Cross, a circle divided into four equal parts, is an ancient symbol representing the sun and the four seasons or cardinal directions. As a solar symbol it is associated with light, life, growth, abundance, and vitality. Also, the circle surrounding the cross represents protection and unity,
Across cultures, the Sun Cross has been linked to powerful deities such as Sunna and Odin in Norse tradition, Sol in Roman belief, and Taranis in Celtic mythology.
Because it represents abundance, protection, and alignment with the cycles of nature, the Solar Cross was used as a good luck charm believed to bring stability, prosperity, and positive energy to those who carried or displayed it.
17. Koru
The Koru is a spiral inspired by a young fern unfurling. Rooted in Māori culture of New Zealand, it represents new beginnings, growth, strength, and peace, and is believed to attract positive change and good fortune.
18. Fu Lu Shou
In Chinese culture, Fu Lu Shou represents the three stars of fortune, prosperity, and longevity. Often depicted as three wise men, these figures symbolize good luck in different areas of life.
- Fu brings happiness and blessings
- Lu offers career success and wealth
- Shou grants health and long life
Displaying Fu Lu Shou figurines or images in homes or businesses is believed to invite prosperity, success, and long life.
19. Rudraksha beads
These natural beads come from the Rudraksha tree and are sacred in Hinduism. Believed to be tears of Lord Shiva, they’re thought to bring peace, prosperity, and spiritual enlightenment. Wearing a Rudraksha mala (necklace) is said to reduce stress, block negativity, and attract positive energy.
Rudraksha beads are sorted by the number of natural lines (called mukhis) on them. Each type is believed to offer specific benefits and connect to certain planetary energies.
20. Witch’s Knot
The Witch’s Knot, also known as the Celtic Goddess Knot, is a protective symbol used in various magical traditions. Its intricate, interwoven design is believed to trap negative energies and deflect curses. As a good luck charm, it’s thought to create a barrier against ill fortune.
Check out this article to see the right way to draw the Witch’s Knot symbol and its hidden significance.
21. Brigid’s Cross
This Irish symbol is associated with goddess Brigid. Traditionally made from rushes or straw, it’s believed to protect homes from fire and evil. As a good luck charm, it’s thought to bring Brigid’s blessings of love, healing, and good fortune.
Many Irish households make new crosses each February 1st (St. Brigid’s Day) and hang them by the door or in the rafters for year-round protection.
22. Acorn
The acorn is a symbol of potential and good fortune in many cultures. As a tiny seed that grows into a mighty oak, it represents strength, perseverance, and future prosperity. In Nordic traditions, acorns were associated with Thor, god of thunder, and thought to protect homes from lightning.
Today, many keep acorns as pocket charms for luck, especially in financial matters or new beginnings.
23. Solomon’s Knot
Also known as the Infinity Knot, Solomon’s Knot is an ancient symbol found across many cultures. Its interwoven design, with no beginning or end, represents eternity, connection, and wholeness.
It is also seen as a symbol of the union between human and the divine. In-fact, the name “Solomon” is linked to Sol (Sun) and Mon (Moon), symbolizing the balance of masculine and feminine energies. This balance is believed to bring alignment, positive energy, and good fortune.
The knot is also thought to offer protection from negativity while attracting harmony and positive influences.
24. Kaheksakand – Estonian 8-Pointed Star
The Kaheksakand, also known as Auseklis in Latvia, is a powerful ancient Baltic symbol of good fortune and protection. This eight-pointed star is deeply rooted in Estonian and Latvian folklore and mythology. It’s believed to represent the morning star or Venus, symbolizing rebirth and the triumph of light over darkness.
In pagan traditions, the Kaheksakand was associated with Austras koks, the celestial tree connecting different worlds. It’s believed to bring harmony between earthly and celestial realms. Today, many Estonians and Latvians wear or display this symbol not only for luck but also as a connection to their cultural heritage and ancestral wisdom.
25. Diya
Diya is small earthen oil lamp used in Hindu rituals and festivals. Lighting a diya is believed to ward off negative energies and invite prosperity and divine blessings.
Diyas also symbolize the five elements, with the earthen base representing earth, the oil representing water, the flame representing fire, the cotton wick representing spirit, and the surrounding air representing the air element.
Often seen during the festival of Diwali, these lamps symbolize the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.
26. Pomander
A pomander consists of an orange studded with cloves, used as a natural air freshener and decoration. It is commonly used during winter and festive seasons like Christmas in European traditions.
It’s believed to bring good luck and ward off illness when hung in the home.
27. Kanatitsa
Kanatitsa is an ancient Bulgarian symbol made up of triangular shapes. It is believed to protect the family and bring love, harmony, good luck, and peace to the household. This symbol is often worn to support a happy marriage and strengthen familial bonds.
28. Mandala
A mandala is a circular, geometric design rooted in Hindu and Buddhist traditions. Used both as decoration and in spiritual practice, creating or displaying a mandala is believed to bring good luck and support personal growth.
It represents wholeness and the cycles of life, and is popular as a symbol of good fortune and transformation.
29. Algiz rune
Runes are ancient symbols used by early Germanic cultures, often believed to hold spiritual meaning.
The Algiz rune is a symbol of protection and good luck. Its shape represents reaching upward, and it is thought to guard against negativity while attracting positive energy.
30. Trinity Knot
The Trinity Knot, also known as the Triquetra, is a Celtic symbol representing sacred trinities, most commonly mind, body, and spirit. It is also associated with the Christian Trinity – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. When these three aspects are in harmony, they are believed to bring balance, guidance, and positive energy into your life.
That is why the Triquetra is seen as a powerful symbol of good luck, protection, and prosperity.
31. Sign of Laimas
This Latvian symbol is a cross with curved arms, associated with Laima, the goddess of fate and fortune. It represents fertility, growth, and eternal life. Believed to bring good luck and protection, this symbol is often used in jewelry and traditional decorations.
The sign is said to help align one’s destiny with positive outcomes and is particularly popular during summer solstice celebrations.
32. Galloping horses
In Feng Shui, images of galloping horses, especially in groups, are seen as powerful symbols of strength, success, freedom, and good fortune.
They are commonly placed in living rooms or offices to encourage growth, motivation, and achievement.
However, they are not recommended for bedrooms, as the dynamic, high-energy movement of running horses can disturb the calm and restful atmosphere needed for sleep.
33. Sun god with horses
In Hinduism, the Sun god Surya, also known as Ravi, is often depicted riding a chariot drawn by seven horses. These seven horses symbolize the seven colors present in white light.
As such, this imagery, especially when kept in your workroom, is believed to attract good luck, vitality, and success.
34. Laughing Buddha
The Laughing Buddha is a 10th-century Chinese folkloric figure based on a cheerful monk named Qieci, who was known for his compassionate, generous, and joyful nature, as well as the cloth sack he carried. Some consider him an incarnation of Maitreya, the future Buddha.
In Feng Shui, placing the Laughing Buddha facing the main door or in a living room or office is believed to attract positive energy, joy, and success, while keeping him in bathrooms or kitchens is generally avoided.
35. Lucky Bamboo
Lucky Bamboo is a popular plant in Feng Shui, believed to bring luck, prosperity, and harmony. Despite its name, it is not true bamboo but a type of Dracaena. The number of stalks carries meaning, with two symbolizing love, three representing happiness, wealth, and longevity, and five associated with health and balance.
Placing it in the east or southeast area of a home or workspace is thought to enhance positive energy and growth, while it is generally avoided in bedrooms to maintain a calm and restful atmosphere.
36. Chinese Coins
Chinese Coins are traditional round coins with a square hole in the center, symbolizing the harmony of heaven and earth. In Feng Shui, they are used as powerful symbols of wealth, protection, and prosperity.
Often tied together with a red string, they are placed near entrances, in wallets, cash boxes, or workspaces to attract financial luck and positive energy.
37. Troll Cross
The Troll Cross is a protective charm from Swedish folklore, made of a bent piece of iron forming an oval with a twist. People used to wear or hang it to ward off trolls, evil spirits, and bad luck. It’s said that the twisted shape confuses malevolent beings, preventing them from causing harm.
38. Hamsa hand
The Hamsa hand is a palm-shaped amulet popular in Middle Eastern and North African cultures. It’s believed to ward off the evil eye and bring good fortune. The hand often features an eye in the center, symbolizing protection. People hang Hamsa hands in their homes or wear them as jewelry for luck and defense against negative energies. Its five fingers are sometimes associated with the five senses or the five pillars of Islam.
39. Looped Square
The looped square has been used across many ancient cultures as a symbol of protection and good luck. It appears as the Swedish sankthanskors, the Danish johanneskors, the Celtic Bowen’s Knot, the Finnish hannunvaakuna, and the Adinkra symbol Mpatapo.
In these traditions, it was often drawn on homes, barns, and everyday objects to guard against negative energy and to attract good luck. Because it is formed from one continuous line with no beginning or end, it also represents unity, interconnection, love, and friendship.
40. Bagua mirror
The Bagua mirror is a powerful tool in Feng Shui, used to deflect negative energy. It’s typically octagonal, with a mirror at its center surrounded by eight trigrams. When hung outside above the frotn door or window, it’s believed to attract good luck and protect a home from harmful influences.
41. Huma bird
The Huma bird is a mythical creature in Persian folklore, similar to the phoenix. It’s said that if the Huma’s shadow falls on someone, they will have good fortune or even become royalty. This bird is often depicted in Persian art and literature as a symbol of paradise and spiritual ascension.
42. Ganesha
Ganesha is an elephant-headed Hindu deity, known as the remover of obstacles and patron of arts and sciences. Ganesha statues or images are often placed at the entrance of homes and businesses for good luck and to ensure success in new ventures.
43. Ladybug
Ladybugs are considered lucky in many cultures worldwide. Their bright colors and spots are thought to symbolize joy and good fortune. In some traditions, the number of spots indicates how many months of good luck you’ll have.
Finding a ladybug or having one land on you is often seen as a sign of incoming good news or wishes being granted.
44. Elephant with raised trunk
An elephant with its trunk raised is considered a powerful good luck symbol, especially in feng shui. Placing an elephant figurine with its trunk up near the entrance of a home or office is believed to bring luck and protect against negative energies. Some also view it as a symbol of good memory and intelligence.
45. Four-leaf clover
Perhaps one of the most recognizable symbols of luck, the four-leaf clover is a rare variation of the common three-leaf clover. Each leaf is said to represent something: faith, hope, love, and luck. Finding a four-leaf clover is considered a sign of incoming good fortune.
In Celtic tradition, they were believed to grant the ability to see fairies and connect with hidden realms.
46. Peacock feathers
Peacock feathers have different meanings across cultures. In some Eastern traditions, they’re seen as lucky, representing beauty, integrity, and protection. The “eyes” on the feathers are thought to ward off evil.
In Hinduism, peacock feathers are associated with Lord Krishna and are seen as auspicious. They’re often used in home decor or as personal talismans for those who believe in their positive energy.
47. Mistletoe
Mistletoe is a small plant that grows on trees, known for its white berries. In many cultures, it’s hung in homes during winter holidays and thought to bring good luck, love, and fertility. The tradition of kissing under mistletoe comes from old Norse mythology, where it symbolized peace and reconciliation. Interestingly, mistletoe is also considered sacred in some Native American cultures.
48. Ibis
In ancient Egypt, the ibis was sacred to Thoth, god of wisdom and writing. Its curved beak resembles a crescent moon, linking it to lunar cycles and time. Today, the ibis is still considered a symbol of knowledge and good fortune. Some believe seeing an ibis brings luck in academic pursuits or creative endeavors.
49. Nandavarta
The Nandavarta is a labyrinth-like symbol in Jainism and Hinduism, representing joy and prosperity. Its intricate, maze-like design is said to confuse negative energies while attracting positive ones. Often used in rangoli designs during festivals, it’s believed to bring happiness and good fortune to the home. The symbol’s complexity is thought to reflect the journey of life.
This symbol is very similar to the Hindu Swastika which is also a symbol of good luck.
50. Nandipada (Hindu Symbol)
In Hinduism, the Nandipada represents the footprint (pada) of the sacred bull Nandi. Nandi is the loyal mount of Lord Shiva. and is believed to bring good fortune and divine blessings. In temples, you might see stone Nandis facing the main shrine, symbolizing unwavering devotion and strength.
51. Quatrefoil
The Quatrefoil is made of four overlapping circles and is seen as a symbol of good luck, harmony, and protection in various cultures across the world. This symbol also represents the four elements and is similar to the ancient Witch’s Knot and the Celtic Five Fold Symbol.
52. Kamadhenu
In Hindu mythology, Kamadhenu is a divine cow who is said to grant all wishes. She’s often depicted as a white cow with a woman’s head and peacock’s tail. Kamadhenu symbolizes abundance, prosperity, and the fulfillment of desires.
53, Kalpavriksha
The Kalpavriksha is a wish-fulfilling divine tree in Hindu and Jain traditions. It’s believed to grant any desire to those who approach it. This mythical tree is often depicted in art and literature, symbolizing abundance and the generosity of nature. Some temples have trees that are considered earthly representations of the Kalpavriksha.
54. Japanese crane
The crane holds significant meaning in Japanese culture as a symbol of good fortune and longevity. These elegant birds are often depicted in art and origami. In Japan, there’s a tradition of folding 1000 paper cranes for good luck or to grant a wish. The crane’s graceful appearance and monogamous mating habits also make it a symbol of fidelity and honor.
55. Fuzanglong
In Chinese mythology, Fuzanglong is one of the five dragon kings, associated with hidden treasures. He’s believed to guard buried wealth and bring good fortune. People often display Fuzanglong figurines or images in homes or offices to attract prosperity. This dragon is typically depicted with a pearl or treasure in its claws.
56. Amaltas flower
Known as the Golden Shower tree, Amaltas is considered auspicious in Indian traditions. Its vibrant yellow blossoms symbolize prosperity and positive energy. Many believe displaying these flowers at home attracts good fortune and success. The tree’s stunning beauty during full bloom is seen as a natural manifestation of abundance and joy.
Conclusion
As you navigate the modern world, these ancient symbols can connect you to ancestral wisdom and positive energy. If a symbol from this list resonates with you, consider making it your personal good luck charm by incorporating it into your life. You might carry it with you, wear it as jewelry, or use it during meditation. Wishing you good luck and prosperity!
