GYE NYAME

"except for God"

Symbol of the supremacy of God

This unique and beautiful symbol is ubiquitous in Ghana. It is by far the most popular for use in decoration, a reflection on the deeply religious character of the Ghanaian people

ADINKRAHENE

"Chief of the adinkra symbols"

Symbol of greatness, charisma and leadership

This symbol is said to have played an inspiring role in the designing of other symbols. It signifies the importance of playing a leadership role.

DUAFE

"wooden comb"

Symbol of beauty and cleanliness; symbols of desirable feminine qualities

The meaning of this symbol is characterized slightly differently in "The Adinkra Dictionary" and "The Values of Adinkra Symbols"; the former emphasizes more abstract qualities of feminine goodness, love and care, while the latter has a more literal interpretation, looking one's best and good hygiene. In any case, the Duafe was a prized possession of the Akan woman, used to comb and plait her hair.

AKOBEN

"war horn"

Symbol of vigilance and wariness

Akoben is a horn used to sound a battle cry

AKOFENA

"sword of war "

Symbol of courage, valor, and heroism

The crossed swords were a popular motif in the heraldic shields of many former Akan states.

In addition to recognizing courage and valor, the swords can represent legitimate state authority.

AKOKO NAN

"the leg of a hen"

Symbol of nurturing and discipline

The full name of this symbol translates to "The hen treads on her chicks, but she does not kill them." This represents the ideal nature of parents, being both protective and corrective. An exhortation to nurture children, but a warning not to pamper them.