The first use of the symbol was in Malta, possibly c. 3600 BC. This
symbol was also seen in Newgrange in Ireland. It is believed that the timeline
was 3200 BC, which was near the end of the Neolithic period (c. 4000-3000
BC).
While there are many interpretations of what the symbol
could mean, no one knows for sure. It predates the written word, and the oral
tradition surrounding the symbol has been lost. Some believe it was a spiritual
symbol that represented Celtic deities or nature. It may even have simply been
a symbol that was liked. It is even thought that the spiral triskele represents
continuousmovement.
Three is an important number in Celtic mythology and
culture. The Celts believed in the triad and that everything happened in
threes. They grouped several things into groups of three, from religion and
nature to family and elements of the south.
Today, it is seen as a Celtic symbol. Celts still use the
symbol frequently as decoration on stonework and metalwork. The symbol is seen
on the flag of the Isle of Mann.
Unfortunately, some versions of the triskele, primarily the “three
sevens” version, have been associated with hate groups and
white supremacy. Other non-hate groups use the triskele as well. As such, it is
important to look at the context in which the symbol is being used to ensure
its meaning.
The triskele has endured for thousands of years and is still
used today. It remains one of the most recognizable Celtic symbols.