The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs recognizes more than 30 symbols, including more than a dozen variations of the Christian cross and the atomic whirl used by atheists, but not the pentacle.

While some symbols associated with witchcraft – such as the pentagram – are universal, others are more unique. Perhaps the most personal of these are sigils, which Grossman describes as a ...

They include commonly recognized symbols for Christianity, Buddhism, Islam and Judaism, as well as those for smaller religions such as Sufism Reoriented, Eckiankar and the Japanese faith Seicho-No-Ie.

The witch marks are among the most identified at any of English Heritage's 400 sites, ... Gainsborough Old Hall has more than 20 ritual protection symbols carved into its walls, ...

Symbols include stars, pentangles and various letters, and you can find them all over England -- including the hometown of playwright William Shakespeare. See photos of these witch's marks: ...

Ritualistic protection symbols are not uncommon in Britain. Most are found near the entrance points – including doorways, windows and fireplaces – of historic churches.

During his first campaign for president, then-Texas Gov. George W. Bush told ABC's "Good Morning America" in 1999 that he was opposed to Wiccan soldiers practicing their faith at Fort Hood, Tex.