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The Scout emblem which
has been worn by an estimated 250 million Scouts since the
Movement was founded and is today still used by 16 million
Scouts in 150 countries and territories, is one of the world's
best known symbols. But Scouts and members of the public often
ask how the emblem originated.
Lord Baden-Powell
himself gave the answer, "Our badge we took from the 'North
Point' used on maps for orienteering them with North". Lady
Baden-Powell said later, "It shows the true way to go."
So, the emblem helps to
remind Scouts to be as true and reliable as a compass in keeping
to their Scouting ideals and showing others the way.
In Scouting, we take the
three tips of the emblem to represent the three main points of
the Scout Promise. The two decorative five-pointed stars are
taken in some countries to stand for truth and knowledge.
In the World Scout
Emblem, the basic motif is encircled by a rope tied with a reef
or square knot symbolizing the unity and brotherhood of the
Movement throughout the world. Even as one cannot undo a reef
knot no matter how hard one pulls on it so, as it expands, the
Movement remains united.
The colour of the World
Scout Badge is a white on a royal purple background. These, too,
are symbolic. In heraldry white represents purity and royal
purple denotes leadership and helping other people. |
