Stories behind Palestinian symbols of resistance

Stories behind Palestinian symbols of resistance

Throughout history, symbols have been present in the artwork of every country. Symbols have always been central to Palestinian art. The vast traditional legacy of the Palestinian people combined with the political circumstances they have faced and continue to face make them have unbeatable symbols of resistance.

Old key

Since the Palestinian people were forced to flee their homes and lands in 1948 and take refuge in camps, the old key has been associated with Palestinian memory. They haven't stopped waiting or dreaming of going back to their hometowns.

According to Daf Beirut, the Palestinian refugee crisis became just as significant as the issues of independence, peace, and the land. They tell about how crucial it is to get back to their homes and how they cannot accept being banished from their homeland.

Keffiyeh

Ummah reported that the keffiyeh, a traditional headscarf, is more than just a piece of apparel. It is a clear representation of Palestinian solidarity around the world, embodying the warmth and deeply ingrained cultural identity of the Palestinian people.

The fishnet, sea waves, and bold patterns are the three primary sections of the keffiyah's patterns, each standing for a distinct facet of Palestinian identity. The fishnet symbolizes the link with the sea, the waves stand for bravery and resiliency, and the bold is for the historic trade routes.

Watermelons 

After Israel took control of the West Bank and Gaza during the Six-Day War in 1967 and outlawed the public flying of the Palestinian flag in those regions, watermelons appeared to become a symbol of Palestinian resistance, according to Business Insider.

Although watermelons are grown extensively in Gaza and the West Bank, the fruit's hues appear to have served as inspiration for Palestinian resistance. The colors of watermelons and the Palestinian flag are the same: red, green, and black.

Jerusalem

Every Palestinian has a piece of Jerusalem in their hearts. Poets, singers, and artists have drawn inspiration for their works of art from the holy city of Jerusalem. The city is ingrained in the hearts and thoughts of the Palestinian people, although they are unable to show it their affection due to the Israeli occupation keeping it largely out of their reach.

Jerusalem has come to be linked with the spectacular ornamentation and distinctive architecture of the Dome of the Rock, which is considered one of the most exquisite structures in the entire world. The majority of Palestinian artists now employ it as a symbol in their creations. Palestine and the land of peace are symbolized by Jerusalem and the Dome of the Rock, according to Daf Beirut.

Olive tree

In Palestine, olive trees are a living symbol of endurance. These ancient trees, which are scattered throughout Palestinian territory, represent the people's unwavering spirit and enduring bond with their homeland, Ummah reported. 

As a symbol of peace and resiliency, the olive tree stands sentinel over the Palestinian territories. Its origins are deeply ingrained in the history of the region, signifying insistence and determination.

Handala 

Revolutionary art is one means of resistance, and Handala is one example.

Political cartoonist Naji Al Ali invented the character Handala, a young refugee who watches policies and events unfold with his back to the public at all times. Today, the world views Handala as a symbol of Palestinian defiance and a fight against injustice, Freedom Archives reported.

From the river to the sea

Last but not least, the map of Palestine from the river to the sea is one of the most significant symbols of Palestinian roots and concrete connection despite the ongoing displacements.