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In the [[Halo Universe]], there are many '''Forerunner Symbols''' -- that is, pictograms made by the [[Forerunners]]. These symbols can be found above doors, on [[Elite]] [[Sangheili Combat Harness|armor]], virtually anywhere on the [[Installations]], and in the [[Covenant]].


== Usage ==
[[File:Main-Forerunner.png|thumb|200px|The Eld, the glyph symbolizing the [[Mantle|Mantle of Responsibility]], one of the most common Forerunner glyphs.]]
The exact nature of Forerunner writing remains a mystery. The symbols are most likely [[Wikipedia:Logograms|logograms]], rather than parts of an [[Wikipedia:Alphabet|alphabet]] or [[Wikipedia:Syllabary|syllabary]]. There also seems to be more dimensions to Forerunner writing than traditional methods, with the individual glyphs holding multiple meanings, likely making them entirely contextual -- when combined with different glyphs, a symbol might have radically different meanings, making individual glyphs [[Wikipedia:Pictogram|pictograms]] or [[Wikipedia:Ideogram|ideograms]].
The [[Forerunner]]s used several forms of '''symbols and glyphs''' to convey a variety of meanings. These symbols can be found on Forerunner technology and within Forerunner installations, including the [[Halo Array]]. The [[Covenant]] later adopted these symbols for their writing system as well as [[Covenant religion|religious]] imagery and as such, they are also commonly seen in Covenant technology and architecture.
 
==Background==
While the specifics of Forerunner languages such as [[Jagon]] and [[Digon]] remain a mystery, with only a handful of words known, the writing system they used to convey meaning is far better understood.  
 
The Forerunners appear to have used two different writing methods; the first was a system of glyphs or [[Wikipedia:Logograms|logograms]], rather than parts of an [[Wikipedia:Alphabet|alphabet]], highly contextual in nature, with the meaning of different glyphs altered by order and context, and further meaning could be derived if the reader used more three-dimensional interpretations; when combined with different glyphs, a symbol might have radically different meanings, making individual glyphs [[Wikipedia:Pictogram|pictograms]] or [[Wikipedia:Ideogram|ideograms]].
 
The second mode seems to be a more conventional writing system, using two-dimensional characters. There appear to be at least two variations of this conventional script. One type, observed in Forerunner relics on [[Installation 00]], either inscribed onto stone relics<ref>'''Halo 3''', multiplayer map, ''[[Sandtrap]]''</ref><ref>'''Halo 3''', multiplayer map, ''[[Sandbox]]''</ref> or in holographic form,<ref>'''Halo 3''', multiplayer map, ''[[Epitaph]]''</ref><ref>'''Halo 3''', multiplayer map, ''[[Construct]]''</ref> involves highly complex characters resembling digital patterns or bar codes written vertically. In the other writing system, the characters are considerably simpler, consisting of a series of dots, squares, bars and triangles. The Covenant [[Sangheili (language)|script]] is derived from the latter, although they use highly embellished variations of the original characters used by the Forerunners.<ref>'''Halo: First Strike''', ''page 197''</ref>


Other symbols found on Forerunner relics and structures are even less obvious in their meanings. They are obviously decorative in nature, but they are often larger and more elaborate in nature than their glyphs, and may depict specific shapes and forms, and may have more in common with [[Wikipedia:Petroglyph|petroglyphs]] than logograms.
Other symbols found on Forerunner relics and structures are even less obvious in their meanings. They are obviously decorative in nature, but they are often larger and more elaborate in nature than their glyphs, and may depict specific shapes and forms, and may have more in common with [[Wikipedia:Petroglyph|petroglyphs]] than logograms.


== Symbol Analysis ==
The glyph system was also adopted by the Covenant as religious symbols, despite having little idea as to the true meanings of the original symbols; the most notorious example is their mistranslation of the "[[Reclaimer]]" glyph as meaning "Reclamation". Forerunner glyphs are found on Covenant [[Luminary|Luminaries]] as indicators of Forerunner relics, as the Reclaimer glyph was seen to represent humans on [[Harvest]]. Humans in general have had little success in translating Forerunner texts, with the notable exception of Dr. [[Catherine Halsey]].<ref>''[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]]''</ref> Indeed, it took nearly five years to decode glyphs recovered during the [[Battle of New Mombasa]].<ref name="ope">'''[[Halo: Spartan Strike]]''', ''[[Operation E: Brother’s Keeper]]''</ref>
The symbols are primarily composed of circles and curves. Each glyph appears to use a circle as a base shape, often combined with either a [[Wikipedia:concentric|concentric]] circle or [[Wikipedia:Circular arc|fragments]] of one. Another common trait is the presence of one or more [[Wikipedia:circular arc|circular arc]]s whose [[Wikipedia:osculating circle|osculating circle]]s' centers lie on the base circle. Non-circular arcs and small non-concentric circles can be seen on some glyphs. The filling in of areas is uncommon but has been seen in Forerunner glyphs.
 
==Specific symbols==
===Eld===
The glyph representing the [[Mantle|Mantle of Responsibility]],<ref name="requiem">'''Halo 4''', campaign level, ''[[Requiem (level)|Requiem]]''</ref> the main belief system of the Forerunners, is perhaps the most ancient and ubiquitous Forerunner glyph. Known as the ''Eld'' or the ''Tree-mark'' due to its resemblance to a heavily stylized tree,<ref>'''Halo: Silentium''', ''page 142-143''</ref> the symbol appears frequently on Forerunner structures and installations due to the Mantle's all-encompassing nature in Forerunner society.
 
Among many other sites, this symbol appears inside and outside [[Installation 04]]'s [[Silent Cartographer]],<ref>'''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''', campaign level, ''[[The Silent Cartographer]]''</ref><ref>'''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]''', campaign level, ''[[The Silent Cartographer]]''</ref> as well as on [[Installation 05]] in various areas.<ref>'''[[Halo 2]]'''</ref> It also appears on [[Installation 00|the Ark]]'s surface, if viewed from space. It also makes an appearance in the [[Terminal (Halo 3)|Terminal]]s throughout the Ark. The symbol also appears on top of a [[Monitor]]'s "head" and behind the "eye" on the center orb. The surface of [[Requiem]] also bears the symbol,<ref>'''[[Halo 3]]''', ''Epilogue''</ref> and the symbol is found in a wall on Requiem, accompanied by the inscription ''"Guardianship for all living things lies with those whose evolution is most complete. The Mantle of Responsibility shelters all."''.{{Ref/Reuse|requiem}} A similar symbol was found on [[Installation 03]] and moved to [[Ivanoff Station]] to be studied.<ref name="Composer">'''Halo 4''', campaign level, ''[[Composer (level)|Composer]]''</ref>
 
<gallery>
File:Silent Cartographer Eld.png|Eld under Installation 04's [[Cartographer]].
File:Halo_CE_Derelict.jpg|The Mantle symbol in the [[Deep-Space Anomaly#0198]].
File:Ark_symbol.jpg|The Mantle symbol on the Ark's surface.
File:H2-Uprising Eld.png|An engraving of the [[Mantle#Symbol|Mantle symbol]] on Installation 05.
File:Forerunner Spaceship eld.png|Eld on one of the "fins" of the [[Babd Catha Forerunner vessel]].
</gallery>
 
===Shield World===
[[Shield World]]s are represented by a symbol described as a "double-lobed icon". The symbol was described when [[Catherine Halsey|Dr. Halsey]] was compiling her data with the [[Artificial intelligence|AI]] [[Endless Summer]]. While Dr. Halsey was working, [[Franklin Mendez|CPO Mendez]] asked her what the symbols on the screen are. Dr. Halsey replied that they are Forerunner symbols from the ruins on Onyx, and their theoretical translations. As she continued to work, Mendez then asked the meaning of a double-lobed glyph. Dr. Halsey replied that the symbol, roughly translated, means Shield World.<ref name="goo">'''[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]]''', ''page 181''</ref>
<gallery>
File:HW 10021 symbol.JPG|[[Shield World 10021]]
</gallery>
 
===Reclaimer===
The Forerunner glyph representing a [[Reclaimer]] is identical to the ''[[Marathon]]'' symbol,<ref>''[[Halo: Contact Harvest]]''</ref> although the same symbol appears to have been in common use in Forerunner constructs, including the "eye" of [[343 Guilty Spark]], as well as the frontal section of an [[Enforcer]]. However, after ''[[Halo: Reach]]'', later media featured a more vague appearance of the original symbol.
 
The original ''Marathon'' symbol is also used by humans in various instances, and it is the [[ship emblem]] of the {{UNSCShip|Pillar of Autumn}}. It is unknown if this is simply a coincidence, or if there is a relation to their status as Reclaimers.
 
<gallery>
File:Reclaimer - H4.png|The Reclaimer glyph.
File:Spartan_Ops_Reclaimer_Control_Pannel.png|The Reclaimer glyph on a Requiem control panel.
</gallery>
 
==Defined types of circle symbols==
===Sigils===
A ''sigil'' is a symbol representing a specific Forerunner,<ref name="s85">'''Halo: Silentium''', ''page 85''</ref> [[ancilla]], or any other entity. They were often used to label transmissions,<ref>'''Halo 3''', ''[[Terminal (Halo 3)|Terminals]]''</ref> or to indicate affiliation with a given individual; for example, members of [[Master Builder]] [[Faber]]'s personal security carried his sigil.{{Ref/Reuse|s85}}
 
Forerunners and ancilla have been known to change their sigils on some occasions; for example, the [[Ur-Didact]]'s sigil being changed to an "unbound" state at some point after his fall from grace, and the [[Warden Eternal]]'s sigil gaining a second ring.
 
<gallery>
File:IRIS Avatar Chrysopteron.gif|The second avatar of [[AdjutantReflex]] on [[Bungie.net]].
File:IRIS Avatar MB05032.gif|Hijacked AdjutantReflex
File:Librarian.png|The [[Librarian]]
File:Didact.png|The [[Ur-Didact]]'s original sigil, later adopted by the [[IsoDidact]]
File:Didact_unbound.png|The Ur-Didact's unbound sigil
File:FilialDevotionSymbol.png|[[Filial Devotion]]
File:Mendicant Bias.svg|[[Mendicant Bias]]
File:Not_Rampant_Medicant_Bias.png|Another Mendicant Bias Sigil
File:MendicantBias (Rampant).png|Rampant Mendicant Bias
File:Offensive Bias.png|[[Offensive Bias]]
File:FOR-343GS-logo2.png|[[343 Guilty Spark]]
File:FOR-ArkAI-logo2.png|[[000 Tragic Solitude]]
File:HM-solitude sigil.png|Another 000 Tragic Solitude sigil
File:Gravemind.png|The [[Gravemind]]
File:HtS Forerunner symbol.png|A [[Guardian]]
File:Exuberant_Witness_Sigil.png|[[031 Exuberant Witness]]
File:H5G-Kamchatka Warden Eternal glyph.png|The [[Warden Eternal]]'s original sigil
File:Warden Radio Tag.png|The Warden Eternal's current sigil
File:Enc22 AdjutantRevendicate Emblem.svg|[[Adjutant Revendicate]]
Enc22 InvariantBias Emblem.svg|[[Invariant Bias]]
</gallery>
 
===Installation symbols===
In [[Installation 00|the Ark]]'s [[Forerunner Citadel|Citadel]], where the [[Prophet of Truth]] attempted to fire the [[seven]] Installations, each Installation is shown in detail. Each Halo has its own hologram showing its structure and status, as well as a holographic symbol identifying each Installation.
 
If the installation's fail safe protocol is activated, when the installations are all in communication the symbols all come back as white. In the case an installation is destroyed or contact is fully lost with it, the symbol used to describe it is red as shown with Installation 04.
<gallery>
File:HOSFM Installation 00 forerunner symbol.png|Ark (Installation 00) symbol
File:Installation01S.png|Beta Halo ([[Installation 01]]) symbol
File:Installation02S.png|Epsilon Halo ([[Installation 02]]) symbol
File:Installation03S.png|Gamma Halo ([[Installation 03]]) symbol
File:Installation04S.png|Alpha Halo ([[Installation 04]] , [[Installation 08]], and [[Installation 09]]) symbol
File:Installation05S.png|Delta Halo ([[Installation 05]]) symbol
File:Installation06S.png|Kappa Halo ([[Installation 06]]) symbol
File:Installation07S.png|Zeta Halo ([[Installation 07]]) symbol
File:White installation symbol.png|Kappa Halo's communication confirmed symbol.
File:Red installation symbol.png|Alpha Halo's communication failed symbol.
</gallery>
 
==Symbol types==
The Forerunners have been currently shown to use 7 different type of writing systems. The following are shown below. These symbols can often be found in hexagons.
 
===Rectangle type===
The first type is the rectangle ones. The rectangle ones are seen in records the Forerunners have made.
 
Rectangle type symbols commonly have a bracket round them. Inside the brackets are small boxes. These range from 1-6 small ones, 1 to 4 medium ones, 1 to 3 medium sized ones, 1 to 2 big ones, or none at all. It has been noted that the top bracket is not always there. In that case there is either no boxes at all, or small boxes 1-6 would be inside the bracket.
 
Forerunner sigils are able to be used as normal characters in this.
<gallery>
File:Rectangle_Forerunner_alphabet.png|All known rectangle-type symbols.
File:Forerunner holo shapes text.png|Possibly all known variants of the symbols (Found in the bottom right corner of a Halo 3 Forerunner hologram Atlas texture which was also used in Halo: Reach for covenant weapons).
File:H3 Terminal Error.png|The rectangle type symbols in a terminal with hexagon-type images.{{Ref/Note|The Rectangle type symbols in the Halo 3 terminals are all random and do not go towards any specific letter or number. This can be assumed that the terminal is struggling to translate the English words, giving an error with the wrong symbols popping up.}}
File:Forerunner Symbols with Weapons.jpg|A record of Forerunner weaponry, with the rectangle-type symbols making the names of the weapons.
File:Rectangle_codes.png|Symbols used during the ''Halo 4'' #EvilAwakens marketing campaign.
File:Lines Halo.png|Close analysis of the symbols used during the ''Halo 4'' #EvilAwakens marketing campaign.
File:Lines_Halo_2.png|Expanded analysis of the symbols used during the ''Halo 4'' #EvilAwakens marketing campaign.
</gallery>
 
===Hexagon type===
The second type is the hexagon type ones. The hexagon ones can appear without a hexagon around them but are more mostly seen with them around. These are seen in Forerunner signals and codes, and also control panels. Images are also known to be inside the hexagon type symbols as images in terminals.
<gallery>
File:Classified_Glyphs.png|Forerunner symbols that can make an alphabet if used in certain ways. Used in numerous places including control panels on forerunner devices.
File:Hexagon_Cyphers.png|Two possible ciphers for the hexagon symbols used in the [[Section 3 ARG]].
File:Hunt_the_Signal_Glyph.png|A glyph used in [[Hunt the Signal]] that was used to find the Signal that led to the discovery of the [[Guardian]] sigil.
File:Section_3_Glyph.png|A glyph used in the ''Section 3 ARG''.
File:Cote_D%27Azur_transmission.png|A transmission from the [[Sigma Octanus IV artifact|artifact]] on [[Sigma Octanus IV]] with the hexagon symbols in it.
File:ActivationConsole.png|[[Trove]]'s [[Apex Site]] control panel with the hexagon symbols in it.
File:Operation_C.png|[[X50]]'s control panel with the hexagon symbols in it.
File:White installation symbol.png|Installation symbol with two hexagon symbols at the top corner of it.
</gallery>
 
===Circular type===
The third type is the circular type. The circular type can be seen with being in a circular pattern and has been seen on their own. These are seen in Forerunner co-ordinates, control panels, and several Forerunner artifacts. These are often circle round a Forerunner sigil. This type was also seen in the [[Halo 4: Promethean Weapons Trailer]], where the Promethean weapons were looked over.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=15Ksq4dvLuk ''Halo 4: Promethean Weapons Trailer'']</ref>
 
Forerunner sigils can be used as normal characters in this writing type.
<gallery>
File:Forerunner Symbols Alphabet 1.png|A complete alphabet of this language.
File:Halo CEA Terminal Glyphs 1.png|"Assertion of control" Seen when [[343 Guilty Spark]] contacts the {{UNSCShip|Pillar of Autumn}}.
File:Halo CEA Terminal Glyphs 2.png|"Bio Scan Begin - End" Seen in a transmission in which 343 Guilty Spark lowered [[Installation 04]]'s security to let the UNSC ''Pillar of Autumn'' though.
File:H4 Promo Forerunner symbols.jpg|"Trespass is doom Reclaimer". Forerunner symbols put on numerous official Facebook pages during Halo 4's marketing.
File:H4 Eld with circle symbols.png|Eld with the inscription, "Guardianship for all living things lies with those whose evolution is most complete. The Mantle of Responsibility shelters all."
File:H4 ELD transcribed.png|How the Eld says "Guardianship for all living things lies with those whose evolution is most complete. The Mantle of Responsibility shelters all."
File:H4-DelRio-Infinity-Bridge-04.jpg|The co-ordinates to [[Requiem]] that were found on [[Gamma Halo]]. That make a almost complete alphabet. Note letters "I", "J", "K", "L" don't appear.
File:H4 Spartan Ops Slipspace artifact glyphs.png|"Techlink Established Forerunner" on one of the [[Requiem slipspace artifacts]].
File:H4 Control Panel.png|A symbol on a control panel on Requiem.
File:H4 Requiem Control Pannel.png|A different Control panel on Requiem. The words "Shield", "On", "Off", and "Power" appear on it.
File:H4 Spartan Ops Starmap.png|A Forerunner starmap with the circular type symbols near a system.
File:H4Suppressorsymbols.png|Eld inscription on the [[Z-130 Suppressor]] Refractive skin
File:Halo 5 Binary Rifle Zoom Hexagon symbols.png|Binary Rifle zoom symbols. Small hexagon equals medium range zoom. Large hexagon equals long range zoom.
</gallery>
 
===Scripture type===
The fourth type is the scripture type. These are found on Forerunner ruins and holograms.
 
There are three distinct sets: broad glyphs, LED-like glyphs, and circuit board-like glyphs.
 
It is likely this was [[Digon]], an ancient Forerunner script utilized for sacred and ceremonial purposes.{{Ref/Book|Id=Epi|Halo: Epitaph|5}}
 
<gallery>
File:Scripture.png|Forerunner script engraved onto a stone structure with energy going though it.
File:Hologram Scripture.png|The same scripture as the one on the stone, but as a hologram wall.
File:Scripture type Installation 05.png|Forerunner script on a hologram of the Halo rings on Installation 05.
File:Scripture Old Analysis.png|An old analysis of the scripture-type glyphs.
</gallery>


According to [[Bungie]] employee [[Joseph Staten]], the blue and red signs denote the safety of the area -- that is, whether or not the [[Flood]] are there.{{verify}} Taking a closer look at the symbols, their locations, and what has been said by Bungie, we can deduce the following:
===Planet type===
The fifth type is the planet type. These are only found on planet records.
<gallery>
<gallery>
Image:CRsymbol1.png|The glowing cyan symbols are found on the control panel in the Halo control room.
File:Infestation.jpg|Infestation of a planet with the planet type symbols at the top.
Image:CRsymbol2.png
Image:CRsymbol3.png
Image:Elitesymbol1.png|The non-glowing cyan symbol is found on the back of higher-ranking Elites.
Image:Plasmasymbol.png|The yellow symbol is found on the Covenant plasma grenade.
Image:Forerunner_lift_Symbols.png|It can be deduced that the purple symbol means Elevator or Lift, most likely, as it is seen above doors leading to elevators.
Image:Floodsymbol1.png|Above the doors where large Flood storage rooms are, two of the red symbols always appear, which backs up what Staten said about red and green symbols.
Image:Floodsymbol2.png
Image:CFsymbols.jpg|A number of symbols that have been discovered in ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' and ''Halo 2''.
Image:Chrysopteron.gif|The avatar of [[AdjutantReflex]] on [[Bungie.net]].
</gallery>
</gallery>


All of the others are found in various Forerunner structures, mostly on the levels [[343 Guilty Spark (Level)|343 Guilty Spark]], [[The Silent Cartographer (Level)|Silent Cartographer]], and [[The Library (Level)|The Library]].
===Line type===
The sixth type is the line type. These are seen on Forerunner control panels and co-ordinate.
<gallery>
File:Forerunner_Numbers.png|Translation of the line-type glyphs
File:Type_6_Forerunner_symbols.png|"01910876" as seen on Requiem control panels.
File:Requiem signal Jam.png|"1" used to signify a signal on Requiem.
File:Line Symbols Knights.png|"117" is seen when Cortana is confused about the Knights appearing for the first time.
File:H4-DelRio-Infinity-Bridge-04.jpg|The line type symbol 0-9 seen round the co-ordinates to Requiem.
File:Roland_translating_numbers.png|[[Roland]] translating the co-ordinates to [[Genesis]].
</gallery>


== Cropped Symbols Analysis ==
===Small line type===
[[Image:Forerunner_Symbols_5.png|100px|left|thumb|Examples of rotated symbols]][[image:Forerunner_Symbols_4.png|thumb|Example of cropped symbols]]
The seventh type has only appeared in the stone object found at [[Côte d'Azur Museum of Natural History]]. This type is known to transmit hexagon type symbols out of it.
Several of the symbols are variations of each other. There are a total of 16 unique symbols; the other 8 are rotations or croppings of the 16 main symbols. Of note is the fact that the cropped versions may not have been intended to be cropped; their in-game textures may have been inadvertently placed such that they extended beyond the edges of the polygons they were on, causing the parts that couldn't fit to be clipped. For sake of being thorough, however, they have been included as separate symbols.
<gallery>
File:Line symbols.png|Analysis of existing small line type symbols.
File:Halo 2- Tartarus-brutes wallpaper.jpg|Brute wallpaper for ''Halo 2'' with the symbols.
File:Sadies story symbols.png|Symbols that appear in ''[[Sadie's Story]]''.
File:Sigma Octanus Artifact.jpg|A look as the artifact.
File:Halseys Forerunner research.png|Halsey checking to see if there is a link between this and the standard circle glyphs.
</gallery>


== Numbers ==
==Round symbol analysis==
[[Image:Glyphs.gif|150px|thumb|Numbers from one to five, as well as the base symbol.]]
The symbols are primarily composed of circles and curves. Each glyph appears to use a circle as a base shape, often combined with either a [[Wikipedia:concentric|concentric]] circle or [[Wikipedia:Circular arc|fragments]] of one. Another common trait is the presence of one or more [[Wikipedia:circular arc|circular arcs]] whose [[Wikipedia:osculating circle|osculating circles]]' centers lie on the base circle. Non-circular arcs and small non-concentric circles can be seen on some glyphs. The filling in of areas is uncommon but has been seen in Forerunner glyphs.
Only the Forerunner symbols for numbers one through five are known, though a base symbol with unknown meaning has also been found. It is probable that they also have a symbol for 0, but they may use a base 6 system and not have any more numbers. The base symbol may be the number 0, or the Forerunners [[Wikipedia:Zero#Early history|may not have had a number zero]].


The visual features of numerical glyphs differ slightly from those of normal Forerunner glyphs. Like the other glyphs, numerical glyphs use a circle as a base. However, the only features seen on numerical glyphs are concentric circles and arcs, [[Wikipedia:radial line|radial line]]s, and the occasional radial line with a small circle on its end.
According to [[Bungie]] employee [[Joseph Staten]], the blue and red signs denote the safety of the area — that is, whether or not the [[The Flood|Flood]] are present.{{verify}} However, this has only been noted when there are two red symbols together. As singular red symbols can mean something else as noted by them appearing in numerous locations on Installation 04 not linked to the Flood.


== Installation Symbols ==
Several of the symbols are variations of each other, or simply rotated versions of one.
In ''[[Halo 3]]'', a number of details about the [[Halo Array]] arise. In the [[Installation 00|Ark]]'s [[Citadel (Forerunner)|Citadel]], where the [[Prophet of Truth]] attempted to fire the [[seven]] Installations, each Installation is shown in detail. Each Halo has its own hologram showing its structure and status, as well as a holographic symbol identifying each Installation. Some notes say that there are two versions of each symbol, one where you enter the ring room and the view from the pedestal.


===Installation 04 symbols===
<gallery>
<gallery>
Image:Int1.jpg|Installation 07 Symbol
File:Halo anniversary cartographer Glyphs.png|Symbols that appear on Installation 04's [[Cartographer]].
Image:Int2.jpg|Installation 06 Symbol
File:Control Pannel Glphs.png|These symbols are seen on [[Control Room (Installation 04)|Installation 04's control room]].
Image:Int3.jpg|Installation 05 Symbol
File:343 Guilty Spark Glyphs.png|Glyph patterns seen in one of Installation 04's [[Flood containment facility|Flood containment facilities]].
Image:22086255-Full.jpg|Installation 04 Symbol
File:Halo CE Multiplayer Glyphs.png|Glyph pairs for all ''Halo Combat Evolved's'' maps.
Image:Int5.jpg|Installation 03 Symbol
File:Halo CE Forerunner exclusive Glyphs.png|All glyphs seen on Installation 04.
Image:Int6.jpg|Installation 02 Symbol
Image:Int7.jpg|Installation 01 Symbol
</gallery>
</gallery>


== Reclaimer ==
===Line Installation glyphs===
[[File:Marathon logo.jpg|thumb|100px|The Reclaimer glyph.]]
These symbols appeared throughout [[Line installation]]s, specifically [[Line Installation 1-4]]:
The Forerunner glyph representing a [[Reclaimer]]<ref>''[[Halo: Contact Harvest]]''</ref> is identical to the [[Marathon]] symbol, although the same symbol is seen on various places throughout Forerunner installations and constructs, including the "eye" of [[343 Guilty Spark (Monitor)|343 Guilty Spark]], as well as the frontal section of an [[Enforcer]].
<gallery>
File:Forerunner Echo.png|Glyphs that appeared before ships are shot down.
File:Line_Installation_Glyphs.png|Circle glyphs that appeared in Line Installation 1-4's systems.
File:Forerunner_Line_Installation_Glyphs.png|More glyphs that appeared in Line Installation 1-4's systems.
</gallery>


This symbol is also used by humans in various instances, and it is the [[Ship Emblem|emblem]] of the {{UNSCShip|Pillar of Autumn}}. It is unknown if this is simply a coincidence, or if there's a relation to their status as Reclaimers.
===Domain glyphs===
In several places linked to the [[Domain]] several glyphs appear after [[Fireteam Osiris]] activate a console in them. Currently glyphs of this type have appeared on [[Kamchatka]] and [[Genesis]]. The following glyphs and sigils have appeared.
<gallery>
File:H5G-Kamchatka Guardian glyph.png|The Guardian sigil on Kamchatka.
File:H5G-Kamchatka Warden Eternal glyph.png|A blue glyph similar to the Warden Eternal's sigil on Kamchatka.
File:H5G-Kamchatka unknown glyph 1.png|An unknown Forerunner glyph on Kamchatka.
File:H5G-Kamchatka unknown glyph 2.png|An unknown Forerunner glyph on Kamchatka.
File:H5G-Kamchatka unknown glyph 3.png|An unknown Forerunner glyph on Kamchatka.
File:Genesis Glyph.png|An unknown Forerunner glyph on Genesis that appeared when a auxiliary station was activated.
</gallery>


== Undefined Symbol ==
===Iris-like glyphs===
These Forerunner symbols are featured on some installations, and also used as a key to open [[door]]s in [[Trove]].
[[Image:Fr_universal_symbol.png|thumb|right|200px|The unknown, but commonly seen symbol.]]
<gallery>
A certain symbol exists that has appeared on virtually every Forerunner installation and on the cover of ''[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]]''.
File:Iris icon.gif|The glyph on itself.
File:IRIS Avatar Chrysopteron.gif|The avatar of [[AdjutantReflex]] on [[Bungie.net]].
File:Glyphs.png|The glyphs discovered in [[Iris]].
File:IRIS SOTA symbol.jpg|The Iris symbol [[N'chala]] saw and carved on Earth.
File:Halo Wars Iris Glyphs.png|The glyphs used to open the interior doors of Shield World 0459.
File:Iris_-_Origins.png|A glyph in [[Cortana]]'s eye.
File:Waypoint-Mendicant-Bias-Rampant.jpg|Iris symbol on Mendicant Bias.
File:IRIS_Planet.png|The Iris-like symbols on an Forerunner planet as seen in 343 Guilty Spark's memory before it is wiped.
</gallery>


It has been theorized<ref>http://blog.ascendantjustice.com/2008/05/09/terminal-visuals/</ref> to be the Forerunner symbol for "Forerunner", or either represent either the [[Halo Array]] and all of its additional componets as a whole, as it can be interpreted as "Shield and Sword", which was a Forerunner analogy, the "Shield" meaning the [[Shield World]]s, and the "Sword" the Halo installations.
===Other symbols===
These are symbols seen throughout Forerunner locations.
<gallery>
File:Halo 3 Bestriarum Glyphs.png|Glyphs seen in the [[Bestiarum]] and ''Halo 3'' manuals.
File:Door symbols.png|Symbols used to open doors on [[Halo Wars]]'s multiplayer level [[Release]].
File:Halseys Forerunner research.png|Halsey's research into several of the circle glyphs.
File:Cortana_going_over_Forerunner_Glyphs.png|Cortana going into several of the circle glyphs.
File:Halo_CEA_Terminal_Unknown_Glyph.png|Unknown glyph located in the room the Monitors met before they left the Ark.
File:Pg 24 glyph.png|Glyph seen on page 24 of the [[Halo 3 manual]]
</gallery>


It has also been theorized that the symbol would solely represent a Shield World, as the Shield World symbol was described as "double-lobed" in ''Ghosts of Onyx'', and because the symbol appears in the cover of the book. However, this doesn't explain the symbol's frequent appearances on Forerunner facilities completely separate from the Shield Worlds.<ref name="goo">''[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]]''</ref>
==Wall symbols==
Around several Halo installations and Forerunner relics there are numerous murals and symbols on walls.
<gallery>
File:H2-UprisingSymbol.png|An undefined Forerunner symbol on Installation 05.
File:H2-UprisingForerunnerMural.png|A mural engraved in a wall on Installation 05. A similar mural was present in [[Installation 04]]'s [[Silent Cartographer]].
File:Hologram_Mural.png|Holographic version of the mural that is engraved on numerous locations on Forerunner relics.
File:Halo 2 anniversary red mural.png|A mural engraved in a wall on Installation 05. This has been seen in red, blue, yellow, green, and without colour.
File:Forerunner_circle.png|A circle symbol seen on numerous Forerunner planets and relics.
File:Sandtrap Murals.png|Murals seen on the ''Halo 3'' map ''[[Sandtrap]]''.
</gallery>


This symbol appears inside [[Installation 04]]'s [[Silent Cartographer|Map room]],<ref>''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]</ref> as well as on [[Installation 05]] in various areas.<ref>''[[Halo 2]]''</ref> It also appears on [[Installation 00|the Ark]]'s surface, if viewed from space. It also makes an appearance in the [[Terminals]] throughout the Ark. Curiously, the surface of the [[Legendary Planet]] also bears the symbol.<ref>''[[Halo 3]]''</ref>
==External uses==
===REQ Emblems===
In ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]'', numerous Forerunner symbols are applied into [[Requisition system|REQ card]] emblems.
<gallery>
File:H5 Default Librarian Emblem.png|The Librarian emblem in its original default colors.
File:Reclaimer Emblem.png|The Reclaimer emblem and banner in ''Halo 5'' in its original default colors.
File:Glyphs REQ Card.png|Unknown symbols on a REQ card called "Glyphs".
File:Glyphs_Emblem.png|Symbols on the emblem called "Glyphs" in a green color.
</gallery>


== Shield Worlds ==
===Covenant uses===
The [[Shield World]]s are also known to have a symbol, as evidenced in ''[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx|Ghosts of Onyx]]''.
The Covenant have adapted many Forerunner symbols to their own uses. Some uses include putting the symbols on armor and weaponry.
====External====
<gallery>
File:Halo2.com_Forerunner_symbols.png|Covenant Forerunner symbols as seen on ''[[Halo2.com]]''.
File:Covenant Line symbols.png|Small line-type symbols as seen on a ''Halo 2'' marketing poster.
File:Speaking_Elite.jpg|[[Sangheili (language)|Sangheili speech]] represented by Forerunner glyphs.
File:Harvest Covenent chatter.png|Symbol pattern used by the Covenant for [[Harvest]].
File:Covenant Switch.png|Cyan symbol that appears on a switch in ''Halo Reach''.
File:Glyph of Faith.JPG|The Glyph of Faith carved on the surface of [[Kholo]].
File:Covenant_Node_Halo_CE.png|Two Forerunner type glyphs appearing on a [[Covenant communication node]].
File:Sunaion_Guardian_Symbol.png|A Sangheili interpretation of a Guardian sigil.
</gallery>


The symbol is described in the book on page 181, when [[Catherine Elizabeth Halsey|Dr. Halsey]] is compiling her data with the [[Artificial Intelligence|AI]] [[Endless Summer]]. While Dr. Halsey is working [[Franklin Mendez|CPO Mendez]] asks her what the symbols on the screen are, Dr. Halsey replies that they are [[Forerunner Language|Forerunner language]] symbols, from the ruins on Onyx, and their theoretical translations. As she continues to work Mendez then asks what a symbol means as he points at a double-lobed icon. Dr. Halsey replies that the symbol, roughly translated, means Shield World.  
====Armor====
<gallery>
File:Elitesymbol1.png|The non-glowing cyan symbol is found on the back of [[Stealth Sangheili]] and [[Sangheili Zealot]]s.
File:Covenant_Halo_3_Elite_Symbols_forerunner.png|[[Sangheili Minor]] harnesses emblazoned with Forerunner glyphs.
File:Sangheili forerunner symbol.png|White symbol that appears on the Sangheili armor in ''Halo Reach''.
File:Grunt Symbol.png|White symbol that appears on Grunts in numerous games.
File:Halo 2 anniversary Armor Glyphs.png|Two symbols painted on Sangheili armor.
File:Prophet_chair_symbol.png|Symbol used on the Prophets' [[anti-gravity chair]]s.
</gallery>


From this page, it can be theorized that the icon on the cover of ''Ghosts of Onyx'', which also appears on a multitude of other Forerunner installations, could possibly be the symbol for Shield World. However, it is still possible that the symbol in the cover is separate from the one described in the book, as it is never described in great detail.<ref name="goo"/>  
====Weapons and vehicles====
<gallery>
File:HaloCE-PlasmaGrenade.png|Green {{Pattern|Anskum|plasma grenade}} symbol in ''Halo CE''.
File:H2-PlasmaGrenade.png|Green plasma grenade symbol in ''Halo 2''.
File:PlasGren.png|Green plasma grenade symbol in ''Halo 3''.
File:Sword_Study_HRB_1.jpg|Energy sword hilt with Forerunner symbols on it.
File:Reach T1 Plas Grenade.png|Green plasma grenade symbol in ''Halo Reach''.
File:Phantom_forerunner_symbol.png|Symbol that appears on the {{Pattern|Ru'swum|Phantom}} in ''Halo Reach''.
File:Forerunner_symbols_Covenant_weapons.png|Weapons in ''Halo Reach'' with Forerunner symbols on them.
File:Brute_Forerunner_tatoo.png|Forerunner mural tattooed on a Brute in ''Halo Reach''.
File:Halseys Journal Covenant IRIS symbol.png|A symbol that appears in the inner-workings of the [[Kig-Yar point defense gauntlet]] that closely resembles that of the [[Iris]] artifact glyphs.
File:Halo 4 Sword Symbols.png|Energy sword symbols in ''Halo 4''.
File:H2A Render PlasmaGrenade.png|Green {{Pattern|Anskum|plasma grenade}} symbol projecting the symbol for [[Installation 04]].
File:QWMW3BgpZn crop.jpg|alt=Grey metal background, with a light-grey circular symbol|Circular glyph seen near the handle of a {{Pattern|Pek|plasma cannon}} in ''Halo Reach''.
</gallery>


==Written Language==
===Graffiti===
[[File:Frglyphs 1.jpg|thumb|Forerunner script.]]
Covenant [[Huragok]] have during the [[Battle of Mombasa]] been noted to graffiti Forerunner symbols on the walls of New Mombasa. Some of the symbols depict the [[New Mombasa]] [[Superintendent]]'s [[avatar]] along side the Forerunner symbols. The symbols were first seen in the Halo 3 [[ViDoc]] trailers and during gameplay as the symbol for the [[Regenerator]].
While the '''Forerunner Language''' remains a mystery, with only two words known, the writing system they used to convey meaning is far better understood. The Forerunners appear to have used two different writing methods; the first was a system of glyphs, highly contextual in nature, with the meaning of different glyphs alterred by order and context, and further meaning could be derived if the reader used more three-dimensional interpretations. The second mode seems to be a more conventional writing system, using two-dimensional characters written vertically. While the glyph system is common to Forerunner relics, the writing system seems to have been used far less frequently, and the only known examples of its use have all been found on Forerunner relics on [[Installation 00]], either inscribed onto stone relics<ref>''[[Halo 3]]'', [[Sandtrap (Level)]]</ref><ref>''[[Halo 3]]'', [[Sandbox (Level)]]</ref> or in holographic form<ref>''[[Halo 3]]'', [[Epitaph (Level)]]</ref><ref>''[[Halo 3]]'', [[Construct (Level)]]</ref>
<gallery>
File:Huragok_Patterns_2.png|All known symbols
File:Y_glyph.jpg
File:GlyphA.jpg
File:GlyphB.jpg
File:Super_Y_glyph.png
File:SuperTriglyph.jpg
File:SuperMonoGlyph.jpg
File:Sad_Monoglyph.png
File:O_glyph.jpg
File:TheSuperCircle.jpg
File:Transmission_glyphs.png
</gallery>


The glyph system was been adopted by the Covenant as religious symbols, and was also used as the basis for their [[Covenant Language#Written Language|own scripts]] , despite having little idea as to the true meanings of the original symbols. Humans in general have had little success in translating Forerunner texts, with the notable exception of Doctor [[Catherine Elizabeth Halsey]].<ref>''[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]]''</ref>
===Unknown origin===
The following glyphs are used in several locations, but it is unknown who put them there.
<gallery>
File:Halo_2_Aniversary_Warlord_symbols.png|Hand-drawn glyphs on the map [[Warlord]].
</gallery>


== Trivia ==
==Development gallery==
*It is unknown if the [[Mark of Shame]] is a Forerunner Symbol.
<gallery>
*The base numerical glyph was used as an avatar by [[AdjutantReflex]].{{fact}}
File:Forerunner_Terminals_Glyphs.jpg|Cut symbols in the ''Halo Combat Evolved Anniversary'' Terminals.<ref>[http://youtu.be/mTwkrMUkNyk '''YouTube:''' ''BTS: Anniversary Terminals'']</ref>
File:Lightriflehud.jpeg|Cut render of the Lightrifle that had the Line type symbols "34-1112" on it.
File:H4-Concept-Forerunner-Holoscreens.jpg|Forerunner control panel concept art.
File:H4-Concept-TransitGrid-Holoscreen.jpg|Forerunner control panel concept.
File:Halo_4_Concept_Art_by_Albert_Ng_19a.jpg|Forerunner control panel concept art.
File:Draft_Forerunner_Terminal_Opening_2.png|Cut ''Halo 2: Anniversary'' Terminal symbols.
File:Art_of_Halo_5_Symbols.jpg|Forerunner and Sangheili symbols in the ''Art of Halo 5'' book.
</gallery>


== See Also ==
==Trivia==
*[[Forerunner Language]]
The base numerical glyph was used as an avatar by [[AdjutantReflex]].<ref>[[Iris]]</ref>
*[[Covenant language]]
 
==List of appearances==
*''[[Halo: The Fall of Reach]]'' {{1st}}
*''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''
*''[[Halo: The Flood]]''
*''[[Halo: First Strike]]''
*''[[Halo 2]]''
*''[[Halo Graphic Novel]]''
**''[[Second Sunrise over New Mombasa]]''
*''[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]]''
*''[[Iris]]''
*''[[Halo 3]]''
**''[[Terminal (Halo 3)|Terminals]]''
*''[[Halo: Contact Harvest]]''
*''[[Halo: Reach]]''
*''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]''
**''[[Terminal (Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary)|Terminals]]''
*''[[Halo 4]]''
**''[[Terminal (Halo 4)|Terminals]]''
**''[[Spartan Ops]]''
*''[[Halo: Escalation]]''
*''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]''
*''[[Halo: Spartan Strike]]''
*''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''
 
==Notes==
{{Ref/Notes}}
 
==Sources==
{{Ref/Sources}}
 
==Related links==
===Internal===
*[[Sangheili (language)]]
 
===External===
*[[wikipedia:Logograms|Logograms]]
*[[wikipedia:Logograms|Logograms]]
 
[[Category:Forerunner symbols| ]]
== Sources ==
[[Category:Languages]]
<references/>
[[Category:Forerunner artifacts]]
[[Category:Forerunner Artifacts]]
[[Category:Forerunner Symbols]]

Latest revision as of 00:53, November 16, 2024

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The Eld, the glyph symbolizing the Mantle of Responsibility, one of the most common Forerunner glyphs.

The Forerunners used several forms of symbols and glyphs to convey a variety of meanings. These symbols can be found on Forerunner technology and within Forerunner installations, including the Halo Array. The Covenant later adopted these symbols for their writing system as well as religious imagery and as such, they are also commonly seen in Covenant technology and architecture.

Background[edit]

While the specifics of Forerunner languages such as Jagon and Digon remain a mystery, with only a handful of words known, the writing system they used to convey meaning is far better understood.

The Forerunners appear to have used two different writing methods; the first was a system of glyphs or logograms, rather than parts of an alphabet, highly contextual in nature, with the meaning of different glyphs altered by order and context, and further meaning could be derived if the reader used more three-dimensional interpretations; when combined with different glyphs, a symbol might have radically different meanings, making individual glyphs pictograms or ideograms.

The second mode seems to be a more conventional writing system, using two-dimensional characters. There appear to be at least two variations of this conventional script. One type, observed in Forerunner relics on Installation 00, either inscribed onto stone relics[1][2] or in holographic form,[3][4] involves highly complex characters resembling digital patterns or bar codes written vertically. In the other writing system, the characters are considerably simpler, consisting of a series of dots, squares, bars and triangles. The Covenant script is derived from the latter, although they use highly embellished variations of the original characters used by the Forerunners.[5]

Other symbols found on Forerunner relics and structures are even less obvious in their meanings. They are obviously decorative in nature, but they are often larger and more elaborate in nature than their glyphs, and may depict specific shapes and forms, and may have more in common with petroglyphs than logograms.

The glyph system was also adopted by the Covenant as religious symbols, despite having little idea as to the true meanings of the original symbols; the most notorious example is their mistranslation of the "Reclaimer" glyph as meaning "Reclamation". Forerunner glyphs are found on Covenant Luminaries as indicators of Forerunner relics, as the Reclaimer glyph was seen to represent humans on Harvest. Humans in general have had little success in translating Forerunner texts, with the notable exception of Dr. Catherine Halsey.[6] Indeed, it took nearly five years to decode glyphs recovered during the Battle of New Mombasa.[7]

Specific symbols[edit]

Eld[edit]

The glyph representing the Mantle of Responsibility,[8] the main belief system of the Forerunners, is perhaps the most ancient and ubiquitous Forerunner glyph. Known as the Eld or the Tree-mark due to its resemblance to a heavily stylized tree,[9] the symbol appears frequently on Forerunner structures and installations due to the Mantle's all-encompassing nature in Forerunner society.

Among many other sites, this symbol appears inside and outside Installation 04's Silent Cartographer,[10][11] as well as on Installation 05 in various areas.[12] It also appears on the Ark's surface, if viewed from space. It also makes an appearance in the Terminals throughout the Ark. The symbol also appears on top of a Monitor's "head" and behind the "eye" on the center orb. The surface of Requiem also bears the symbol,[13] and the symbol is found in a wall on Requiem, accompanied by the inscription "Guardianship for all living things lies with those whose evolution is most complete. The Mantle of Responsibility shelters all.".[8] A similar symbol was found on Installation 03 and moved to Ivanoff Station to be studied.[14]

Shield World[edit]

Shield Worlds are represented by a symbol described as a "double-lobed icon". The symbol was described when Dr. Halsey was compiling her data with the AI Endless Summer. While Dr. Halsey was working, CPO Mendez asked her what the symbols on the screen are. Dr. Halsey replied that they are Forerunner symbols from the ruins on Onyx, and their theoretical translations. As she continued to work, Mendez then asked the meaning of a double-lobed glyph. Dr. Halsey replied that the symbol, roughly translated, means Shield World.[15]

Reclaimer[edit]

The Forerunner glyph representing a Reclaimer is identical to the Marathon symbol,[16] although the same symbol appears to have been in common use in Forerunner constructs, including the "eye" of 343 Guilty Spark, as well as the frontal section of an Enforcer. However, after Halo: Reach, later media featured a more vague appearance of the original symbol.

The original Marathon symbol is also used by humans in various instances, and it is the ship emblem of the UNSC Pillar of Autumn. It is unknown if this is simply a coincidence, or if there is a relation to their status as Reclaimers.

  • The Reclaimer glyph.

    The Reclaimer glyph.

  • The Reclaimer glyph on a Requiem control panel.

    The Reclaimer glyph on a Requiem control panel.

Defined types of circle symbols[edit]

Sigils[edit]

A sigil is a symbol representing a specific Forerunner,[17] ancilla, or any other entity. They were often used to label transmissions,[18] or to indicate affiliation with a given individual; for example, members of Master Builder Faber's personal security carried his sigil.[17]

Forerunners and ancilla have been known to change their sigils on some occasions; for example, the Ur-Didact's sigil being changed to an "unbound" state at some point after his fall from grace, and the Warden Eternal's sigil gaining a second ring.

Installation symbols[edit]

In the Ark's Citadel, where the Prophet of Truth attempted to fire the seven Installations, each Installation is shown in detail. Each Halo has its own hologram showing its structure and status, as well as a holographic symbol identifying each Installation.

If the installation's fail safe protocol is activated, when the installations are all in communication the symbols all come back as white. In the case an installation is destroyed or contact is fully lost with it, the symbol used to describe it is red as shown with Installation 04.

Symbol types[edit]

The Forerunners have been currently shown to use 7 different type of writing systems. The following are shown below. These symbols can often be found in hexagons.

Rectangle type[edit]

The first type is the rectangle ones. The rectangle ones are seen in records the Forerunners have made.

Rectangle type symbols commonly have a bracket round them. Inside the brackets are small boxes. These range from 1-6 small ones, 1 to 4 medium ones, 1 to 3 medium sized ones, 1 to 2 big ones, or none at all. It has been noted that the top bracket is not always there. In that case there is either no boxes at all, or small boxes 1-6 would be inside the bracket.

Forerunner sigils are able to be used as normal characters in this.

  • All known rectangle-type symbols.

    All known rectangle-type symbols.

  • Possibly all known variants of the symbols (Found in the bottom right corner of a Halo 3 Forerunner hologram Atlas texture which was also used in Halo: Reach for covenant weapons).

    Possibly all known variants of the symbols (Found in the bottom right corner of a Halo 3 Forerunner hologram Atlas texture which was also used in Halo: Reach for covenant weapons).

  • The rectangle type symbols in a terminal with hexagon-type images.[Note 1]

    The rectangle type symbols in a terminal with hexagon-type images.[Note 1]

  • A record of Forerunner weaponry, with the rectangle-type symbols making the names of the weapons.

    A record of Forerunner weaponry, with the rectangle-type symbols making the names of the weapons.

  • Symbols used during the Halo 4 #EvilAwakens marketing campaign.

    Symbols used during the Halo 4 #EvilAwakens marketing campaign.

  • Close analysis of the symbols used during the Halo 4 #EvilAwakens marketing campaign.

    Close analysis of the symbols used during the Halo 4 #EvilAwakens marketing campaign.

  • Expanded analysis of the symbols used during the Halo 4 #EvilAwakens marketing campaign.

    Expanded analysis of the symbols used during the Halo 4 #EvilAwakens marketing campaign.

Hexagon type[edit]

The second type is the hexagon type ones. The hexagon ones can appear without a hexagon around them but are more mostly seen with them around. These are seen in Forerunner signals and codes, and also control panels. Images are also known to be inside the hexagon type symbols as images in terminals.

  • Forerunner symbols that can make an alphabet if used in certain ways. Used in numerous places including control panels on forerunner devices.

    Forerunner symbols that can make an alphabet if used in certain ways. Used in numerous places including control panels on forerunner devices.

  • Two possible ciphers for the hexagon symbols used in the Section 3 ARG.

    Two possible ciphers for the hexagon symbols used in the Section 3 ARG.

  • A glyph used in Hunt the Signal that was used to find the Signal that led to the discovery of the Guardian sigil.

    A glyph used in Hunt the Signal that was used to find the Signal that led to the discovery of the Guardian sigil.

  • A glyph used in the Section 3 ARG.

    A glyph used in the Section 3 ARG.

  • A transmission from the artifact on Sigma Octanus IV with the hexagon symbols in it.

    A transmission from the artifact on Sigma Octanus IV with the hexagon symbols in it.

  • Trove's Apex Site control panel with the hexagon symbols in it.

    Trove's Apex Site control panel with the hexagon symbols in it.

  • X50's control panel with the hexagon symbols in it.

    X50's control panel with the hexagon symbols in it.

  • Installation symbol with two hexagon symbols at the top corner of it.

    Installation symbol with two hexagon symbols at the top corner of it.

Circular type[edit]

The third type is the circular type. The circular type can be seen with being in a circular pattern and has been seen on their own. These are seen in Forerunner co-ordinates, control panels, and several Forerunner artifacts. These are often circle round a Forerunner sigil. This type was also seen in the Halo 4: Promethean Weapons Trailer, where the Promethean weapons were looked over.[19]

Forerunner sigils can be used as normal characters in this writing type.

  • A complete alphabet of this language.

    A complete alphabet of this language.

  • "Assertion of control" Seen when 343 Guilty Spark contacts the UNSC Pillar of Autumn.

    "Assertion of control" Seen when 343 Guilty Spark contacts the UNSC Pillar of Autumn.

  • "Bio Scan Begin - End" Seen in a transmission in which 343 Guilty Spark lowered Installation 04's security to let the UNSC Pillar of Autumn though.

    "Bio Scan Begin - End" Seen in a transmission in which 343 Guilty Spark lowered Installation 04's security to let the UNSC Pillar of Autumn though.

  • "Trespass is doom Reclaimer". Forerunner symbols put on numerous official Facebook pages during Halo 4's marketing.

    "Trespass is doom Reclaimer". Forerunner symbols put on numerous official Facebook pages during Halo 4's marketing.

  • Eld with the inscription, "Guardianship for all living things lies with those whose evolution is most complete. The Mantle of Responsibility shelters all."

    Eld with the inscription, "Guardianship for all living things lies with those whose evolution is most complete. The Mantle of Responsibility shelters all."

  • How the Eld says "Guardianship for all living things lies with those whose evolution is most complete. The Mantle of Responsibility shelters all."

    How the Eld says "Guardianship for all living things lies with those whose evolution is most complete. The Mantle of Responsibility shelters all."

  • The co-ordinates to Requiem that were found on Gamma Halo. That make a almost complete alphabet. Note letters "I", "J", "K", "L" don't appear.

    The co-ordinates to Requiem that were found on Gamma Halo. That make a almost complete alphabet. Note letters "I", "J", "K", "L" don't appear.

  • "Techlink Established Forerunner" on one of the Requiem slipspace artifacts.

    "Techlink Established Forerunner" on one of the Requiem slipspace artifacts.

  • A symbol on a control panel on Requiem.

    A symbol on a control panel on Requiem.

  • A different Control panel on Requiem. The words "Shield", "On", "Off", and "Power" appear on it.

    A different Control panel on Requiem. The words "Shield", "On", "Off", and "Power" appear on it.

  • A Forerunner starmap with the circular type symbols near a system.

    A Forerunner starmap with the circular type symbols near a system.

  • Eld inscription on the Z-130 Suppressor Refractive skin

    Eld inscription on the Z-130 Suppressor Refractive skin

  • Binary Rifle zoom symbols. Small hexagon equals medium range zoom. Large hexagon equals long range zoom.

    Binary Rifle zoom symbols. Small hexagon equals medium range zoom. Large hexagon equals long range zoom.

Scripture type[edit]

The fourth type is the scripture type. These are found on Forerunner ruins and holograms.

There are three distinct sets: broad glyphs, LED-like glyphs, and circuit board-like glyphs.

It is likely this was Digon, an ancient Forerunner script utilized for sacred and ceremonial purposes.[20]

  • Forerunner script engraved onto a stone structure with energy going though it.

    Forerunner script engraved onto a stone structure with energy going though it.

  • The same scripture as the one on the stone, but as a hologram wall.

    The same scripture as the one on the stone, but as a hologram wall.

  • Forerunner script on a hologram of the Halo rings on Installation 05.

    Forerunner script on a hologram of the Halo rings on Installation 05.

  • An old analysis of the scripture-type glyphs.

    An old analysis of the scripture-type glyphs.

Planet type[edit]

The fifth type is the planet type. These are only found on planet records.

  • Infestation of a planet with the planet type symbols at the top.

    Infestation of a planet with the planet type symbols at the top.

Line type[edit]

The sixth type is the line type. These are seen on Forerunner control panels and co-ordinate.

  • Translation of the line-type glyphs

    Translation of the line-type glyphs

  • "01910876" as seen on Requiem control panels.

    "01910876" as seen on Requiem control panels.

  • "1" used to signify a signal on Requiem.

    "1" used to signify a signal on Requiem.

  • "117" is seen when Cortana is confused about the Knights appearing for the first time.

    "117" is seen when Cortana is confused about the Knights appearing for the first time.

  • The line type symbol 0-9 seen round the co-ordinates to Requiem.

    The line type symbol 0-9 seen round the co-ordinates to Requiem.

  • Roland translating the co-ordinates to Genesis.

    Roland translating the co-ordinates to Genesis.

Small line type[edit]

The seventh type has only appeared in the stone object found at Côte d'Azur Museum of Natural History. This type is known to transmit hexagon type symbols out of it.

  • Analysis of existing small line type symbols.

    Analysis of existing small line type symbols.

  • Brute wallpaper for Halo 2 with the symbols.

    Brute wallpaper for Halo 2 with the symbols.

  • Symbols that appear in Sadie's Story.

    Symbols that appear in Sadie's Story.

  • A look as the artifact.

    A look as the artifact.

  • Halsey checking to see if there is a link between this and the standard circle glyphs.

    Halsey checking to see if there is a link between this and the standard circle glyphs.

Round symbol analysis[edit]

The symbols are primarily composed of circles and curves. Each glyph appears to use a circle as a base shape, often combined with either a concentric circle or fragments of one. Another common trait is the presence of one or more circular arcs whose osculating circles' centers lie on the base circle. Non-circular arcs and small non-concentric circles can be seen on some glyphs. The filling in of areas is uncommon but has been seen in Forerunner glyphs.

According to Bungie employee Joseph Staten, the blue and red signs denote the safety of the area — that is, whether or not the Flood are present.[verification needed] However, this has only been noted when there are two red symbols together. As singular red symbols can mean something else as noted by them appearing in numerous locations on Installation 04 not linked to the Flood.

Several of the symbols are variations of each other, or simply rotated versions of one.

Installation 04 symbols[edit]

Line Installation glyphs[edit]

These symbols appeared throughout Line installations, specifically Line Installation 1-4:

  • Glyphs that appeared before ships are shot down.

    Glyphs that appeared before ships are shot down.

  • Circle glyphs that appeared in Line Installation 1-4's systems.

    Circle glyphs that appeared in Line Installation 1-4's systems.

  • More glyphs that appeared in Line Installation 1-4's systems.

    More glyphs that appeared in Line Installation 1-4's systems.

Domain glyphs[edit]

In several places linked to the Domain several glyphs appear after Fireteam Osiris activate a console in them. Currently glyphs of this type have appeared on Kamchatka and Genesis. The following glyphs and sigils have appeared.

  • The Guardian sigil on Kamchatka.

    The Guardian sigil on Kamchatka.

  • A blue glyph similar to the Warden Eternal's sigil on Kamchatka.

    A blue glyph similar to the Warden Eternal's sigil on Kamchatka.

  • An unknown Forerunner glyph on Kamchatka.

    An unknown Forerunner glyph on Kamchatka.

  • An unknown Forerunner glyph on Kamchatka.

    An unknown Forerunner glyph on Kamchatka.

  • An unknown Forerunner glyph on Kamchatka.

    An unknown Forerunner glyph on Kamchatka.

  • An unknown Forerunner glyph on Genesis that appeared when a auxiliary station was activated.

    An unknown Forerunner glyph on Genesis that appeared when a auxiliary station was activated.

Iris-like glyphs[edit]

These Forerunner symbols are featured on some installations, and also used as a key to open doors in Trove.

  • The glyph on itself.

    The glyph on itself.

  • The avatar of AdjutantReflex on Bungie.net.

    The avatar of AdjutantReflex on Bungie.net.

  • The glyphs discovered in Iris.

    The glyphs discovered in Iris.

  • The Iris symbol N'chala saw and carved on Earth.

    The Iris symbol N'chala saw and carved on Earth.

  • The glyphs used to open the interior doors of Shield World 0459.

    The glyphs used to open the interior doors of Shield World 0459.

  • A glyph in Cortana's eye.

    A glyph in Cortana's eye.

  • Iris symbol on Mendicant Bias.

    Iris symbol on Mendicant Bias.

  • The Iris-like symbols on an Forerunner planet as seen in 343 Guilty Spark's memory before it is wiped.

    The Iris-like symbols on an Forerunner planet as seen in 343 Guilty Spark's memory before it is wiped.

Other symbols[edit]

These are symbols seen throughout Forerunner locations.

  • Glyphs seen in the Bestiarum and Halo 3 manuals.

    Glyphs seen in the Bestiarum and Halo 3 manuals.

  • Symbols used to open doors on Halo Wars's multiplayer level Release.

    Symbols used to open doors on Halo Wars's multiplayer level Release.

  • Halsey's research into several of the circle glyphs.

    Halsey's research into several of the circle glyphs.

  • Cortana going into several of the circle glyphs.

    Cortana going into several of the circle glyphs.

  • Unknown glyph located in the room the Monitors met before they left the Ark.

    Unknown glyph located in the room the Monitors met before they left the Ark.

  • Glyph seen on page 24 of the Halo 3 manual

    Glyph seen on page 24 of the Halo 3 manual

Wall symbols[edit]

Around several Halo installations and Forerunner relics there are numerous murals and symbols on walls.

  • An undefined Forerunner symbol on Installation 05.

    An undefined Forerunner symbol on Installation 05.

  • A mural engraved in a wall on Installation 05. A similar mural was present in Installation 04's Silent Cartographer.

    A mural engraved in a wall on Installation 05. A similar mural was present in Installation 04's Silent Cartographer.

  • Holographic version of the mural that is engraved on numerous locations on Forerunner relics.

    Holographic version of the mural that is engraved on numerous locations on Forerunner relics.

  • A mural engraved in a wall on Installation 05. This has been seen in red, blue, yellow, green, and without colour.

    A mural engraved in a wall on Installation 05. This has been seen in red, blue, yellow, green, and without colour.

  • A circle symbol seen on numerous Forerunner planets and relics.

    A circle symbol seen on numerous Forerunner planets and relics.

  • Murals seen on the Halo 3 map Sandtrap.

    Murals seen on the Halo 3 map Sandtrap.

External uses[edit]

REQ Emblems[edit]

In Halo 5: Guardians, numerous Forerunner symbols are applied into REQ card emblems.

  • The Librarian emblem in its original default colors.

    The Librarian emblem in its original default colors.

  • The Reclaimer emblem and banner in Halo 5 in its original default colors.

    The Reclaimer emblem and banner in Halo 5 in its original default colors.

  • Unknown symbols on a REQ card called "Glyphs".

    Unknown symbols on a REQ card called "Glyphs".

  • Symbols on the emblem called "Glyphs" in a green color.

    Symbols on the emblem called "Glyphs" in a green color.

Covenant uses[edit]

The Covenant have adapted many Forerunner symbols to their own uses. Some uses include putting the symbols on armor and weaponry.

External[edit]

  • Covenant Forerunner symbols as seen on Halo2.com.

    Covenant Forerunner symbols as seen on Halo2.com.

  • Small line-type symbols as seen on a Halo 2 marketing poster.

    Small line-type symbols as seen on a Halo 2 marketing poster.

  • Sangheili speech represented by Forerunner glyphs.

    Sangheili speech represented by Forerunner glyphs.

  • Symbol pattern used by the Covenant for Harvest.

    Symbol pattern used by the Covenant for Harvest.

  • Cyan symbol that appears on a switch in Halo Reach.

    Cyan symbol that appears on a switch in Halo Reach.

  • The Glyph of Faith carved on the surface of Kholo.

    The Glyph of Faith carved on the surface of Kholo.

  • Two Forerunner type glyphs appearing on a Covenant communication node.

    Two Forerunner type glyphs appearing on a Covenant communication node.

  • A Sangheili interpretation of a Guardian sigil.

    A Sangheili interpretation of a Guardian sigil.

Armor[edit]

  • The non-glowing cyan symbol is found on the back of Stealth Sangheili and Sangheili Zealots.

    The non-glowing cyan symbol is found on the back of Stealth Sangheili and Sangheili Zealots.

  • Sangheili Minor harnesses emblazoned with Forerunner glyphs.

    Sangheili Minor harnesses emblazoned with Forerunner glyphs.

  • White symbol that appears on the Sangheili armor in Halo Reach.

    White symbol that appears on the Sangheili armor in Halo Reach.

  • White symbol that appears on Grunts in numerous games.

    White symbol that appears on Grunts in numerous games.

  • Two symbols painted on Sangheili armor.

    Two symbols painted on Sangheili armor.

  • Symbol used on the Prophets' anti-gravity chairs.

    Symbol used on the Prophets' anti-gravity chairs.

Weapons and vehicles[edit]

Graffiti[edit]

Covenant Huragok have during the Battle of Mombasa been noted to graffiti Forerunner symbols on the walls of New Mombasa. Some of the symbols depict the New Mombasa Superintendent's avatar along side the Forerunner symbols. The symbols were first seen in the Halo 3 ViDoc trailers and during gameplay as the symbol for the Regenerator.

  • All known symbols

    All known symbols

  • Y glyph.jpg
  • GlyphA.jpg
  • GlyphB.jpg
  • Super Y glyph.png
  • SuperTriglyph.jpg
  • SuperMonoGlyph.jpg
  • Sad Monoglyph.png
  • O glyph.jpg
  • TheSuperCircle.jpg
  • Transmission glyphs.png

Unknown origin[edit]

The following glyphs are used in several locations, but it is unknown who put them there.

  • Hand-drawn glyphs on the map Warlord.

    Hand-drawn glyphs on the map Warlord.

Development gallery[edit]

  • Cut symbols in the Halo Combat Evolved Anniversary Terminals.[21]

    Cut symbols in the Halo Combat Evolved Anniversary Terminals.[21]

  • Cut render of the Lightrifle that had the Line type symbols "34-1112" on it.

    Cut render of the Lightrifle that had the Line type symbols "34-1112" on it.

  • Forerunner control panel concept art.

    Forerunner control panel concept art.

  • Forerunner control panel concept.

    Forerunner control panel concept.

  • Forerunner control panel concept art.

    Forerunner control panel concept art.

  • Cut Halo 2: Anniversary Terminal symbols.

    Cut Halo 2: Anniversary Terminal symbols.

  • Forerunner and Sangheili symbols in the Art of Halo 5 book.

    Forerunner and Sangheili symbols in the Art of Halo 5 book.

Trivia[edit]

The base numerical glyph was used as an avatar by AdjutantReflex.[22]

List of appearances[edit]

Notes[edit]

  1. ^ The Rectangle type symbols in the Halo 3 terminals are all random and do not go towards any specific letter or number. This can be assumed that the terminal is struggling to translate the English words, giving an error with the wrong symbols popping up.

Sources[edit]

  1. ^ Halo 3, multiplayer map, Sandtrap
  2. ^ Halo 3, multiplayer map, Sandbox
  3. ^ Halo 3, multiplayer map, Epitaph
  4. ^ Halo 3, multiplayer map, Construct
  5. ^ Halo: First Strike, page 197
  6. ^ Halo: Ghosts of Onyx
  7. ^ Halo: Spartan Strike, Operation E: Brother’s Keeper
  8. ^ a b Halo 4, campaign level, Requiem
  9. ^ Halo: Silentium, page 142-143
  10. ^ Halo: Combat Evolved, campaign level, The Silent Cartographer
  11. ^ Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary, campaign level, The Silent Cartographer
  12. ^ Halo 2
  13. ^ Halo 3, Epilogue
  14. ^ Halo 4, campaign level, Composer
  15. ^ Halo: Ghosts of Onyx, page 181
  16. ^ Halo: Contact Harvest
  17. ^ a b Halo: Silentium, page 85
  18. ^ Halo 3, Terminals
  19. ^ Halo 4: Promethean Weapons Trailer
  20. ^ Halo: Epitaph, chapter 5
  21. ^ YouTube: BTS: Anniversary Terminals
  22. ^ Iris

Related links[edit]

Internal[edit]

External[edit]

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