ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Adinkra symbols

Adinkra symbols are like little pictures that people in West Africa use to express different ideas and feelings. They are usually made up of simple shapes, like triangles, circles, and squares, and each one has a special meaning.

For example, the "Sankofa" symbol, which looks like a bird with its head turned backwards, means that we should always remember our past and learn from it. The "Gye Nyame" symbol, which looks like a sun with a minute stick, means that God is all-powerful and nothing happens without his knowledge.

People use these symbols in lots of different ways, like on clothes, in art, and in decorations around their homes. They are a really cool way to express important ideas and to connect with the traditions and culture of their ancestors.