— Medicine bags – usually made out of animal hide, contains items such as a pipe, minerals, tobacco, sage, and other protective items. In ancient times, medicine bags were thought to have the power to protect in times of battle and war.

Egyptian, Celtic, Christian and Greek Symbols of Protection

Not only the protective realm of the Native American culture, ancient Celts also have a deep belief in animal spirits, from the bull, the sign of wealth, status, and fertility, to the salmon, which symbolizes wisdom and the sanctity of life.

While cultures have their unique protective symbols, there are some which reach across traditions, such as the cross, wreaths, hands, and eyes.

— Cross: Usually associated with Christianity and the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, and a sign of benediction, the cross also has significance in other cultures. The ancient Egyptian ankh is the representation of life, with the rounded top symbolizing a mirror of self-reflection. The Greek cross represents the four directions of the earth, as does the cross in Native American Cultures.

— Eyes are an important protective symbol in ancient Egyptian culture. The Eye of Horus, resembling the right eye of the falcon God Horus, and the Eye of Ra, or the Sun God, represent the universe, masculine/femine energies, and the sun and moon. The Eye of Horus is considered protective and healing and the eye as a universal protective symbol is also seen in the Masonic eye, as well as in the modern pharmaceutical symbol.