By Emir Medanhodžić
Many books have been written about Bosnian medieval tombstones, but the authors have not dealt in detail with the symbolism on these tombstones, usually only offering brief and sparse remarks. The reasons for this include the absence of original written sources, a lack of broad knowledge across multiple fields, and the precarious nature of the scholarly terrain, where errors can easily occur and a scientific career jeopardized.
The Foundation “Heritage Watchdogs – Bassania” plans to start writing in detail about this phenomenon, aiming to educate our members and open a dialogue with other authors and researchers. We consider this crucial for understanding the messages of our ancestors, the Good Bosnians, for all present and future generations.
As a brief introduction, all symbolism is oriented toward the spiritual world that the Bosnian Church was connected to, and all symbols should be understood and interpreted in this context. Everyday life (profane) symbols such as hunting, animals, dancing in circles, tournaments, and battles are in fact spiritual symbols.
The symbol of the “open right-hand greeting” is certainly one of the most well-known yet often unrecognized symbols, especially present at the Radimlja necropolis on Vidovo Polje in Stolac. The open hand indicates that the person has peaceful intentions, carries no weapons, and wishes welcome to all travelers. The five fingers represent the five elements of nature: earth, air, water, fire, and the thumb (which symbolizes love that permeates the other four elements). In the sky, the sun represents life, and sometimes a rosette is depicted as a symbol of stars representing the other heavenly realm. A bow and arrow symbolize spiritual struggle, as arrows are aimed toward the heavens, striking truth and justice. On the ground, a shield and sword symbolize peace. Sometimes a wife and children are depicted, symbolizing that the entire family shares these moral values.
Of course, there is also the same symbol with a sword in hand (tombstone near Uloško Lake), as the proud Good Bosnians knew well how to protect and defend their heritage and the Bosnian state.
We remain open to any additional questions, suggestions, and proposals regarding this topic.
