Meaning of the Cohen family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
Crown
The crown is one of the oldest and most recognizable symbols of nobility. Its use was prevalent since medieval times and signified authority in relation to those of royal lineage, high societal standing and military ranking.
Meaning of the Cohen coat of arms colors
Silver
The silver or white color on the coat of arms, (known as 'Argent'), signifies sincerity and peacefulness. It is one of the oldest colors known in ancient heraldry.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Cohen name meaning and origin
Cohen is a Jewish surname of Hebrew origin, meaning "priest" or "religious leader." It is traditionally associated with the descendants of the Jewish priestly caste.
History of family crests like the Cohen coat of arms
Family crests and coats of arms emerged during the Middle Ages, mostly in wider Europe. They were used as a way to identify knights and nobles on the battlefield and in tournaments. The designs were unique to each family and were passed down from generation to generation.
The earliest crests were simple designs, such as a single animal or symbol, but they became more elaborate over time. Coats of arms were also developed, which included a shield with the family crest, as well as other symbols and colors that represented the family's history and achievements.
The use of family crests and coats of arms spread throughout Europe and became a symbol of social status and identity. They were often displayed on clothing, armor, and flags, and were used to mark the family's property and possessions.
Today, family crests and coats of arms are still used as a way to honor and celebrate family heritage.
Cohen name variations and their meaning
The family name Cohen has various variations across different regions and cultures. In Jewish communities, it is commonly spelled as Kohen or Kohanim, which refers to the priestly caste in ancient Israel. This variation signifies a lineage of religious leaders and scholars. In some cases, the name is spelled as Cohn or Kohn, which are more common among Ashkenazi Jews. These variations might have emerged due to different pronunciations or transliterations of the original name. Additionally, there are variations like Cowen or Cowan, which are more prevalent among English-speaking populations. These variations might have originated from Anglicization or assimilation processes. It is interesting to note how the spelling of the name has evolved over time and across different regions, reflecting the diverse cultural and linguistic influences on the Cohen family. Regardless of the spelling, the name Cohen holds significance and represents a rich heritage for those who bear it.
Find your family crest
Learn how to find your family crest.
Other resources:
- Get your official family crest here.
- Learn about heraldry at britannica.com
- See an introduction at wikipedia.com
