What is the narcotics anonymous symbols meaning?

Answer 1

Narcotics Anonymous symbol (often called the service symbol) appears as a square in a circle. Some members suggest it means that the 'square peg' (the recovering addict) CAN fit into the 'round hole' of society, but this meaning is unsubstantiated NA folklore.

In truth the symbol is intended to represent a three dimensional figure of four sides of a pyramid rising from a circular base. This meaning is discussed in the NA book "Narcotics Anonymous", often called the Basic Text. On page vi and vii of the 5th edition the symbol is described in detail. Here is the full quote explaining the NA symbol:

"Our NA Symbol"

"Simplicity is the key to our symbol; it imitates the simplicity of our Fellowship. All sorts of occult and esoteric connotations can be found in it's simple outlines, but foremost in the minds of the Fellowship are easily understood meanings and relationships.

"The outer circle denotes a universal and total program that has room within it for all manifestations of the recovering person.

"The square, whose lines are defined, is easily seen and understood; but there are other unseen parts of the symbol. The square base denotes Goodwill, the ground of both the Fellowship and the members of our society. Good will is best exemplified in service; proper service is "Doing the right thing for the right reason." When Good will supports and motivates both the individual and the Fellowship, we are fully whole and wholly free. Probably the last to be lost to freedom will be the stigma of bing an addict.

It is the four pyramid sides that rise from the base in a three dimensional figure that represent Self, Society, Service and God. All rise to the point of Freedom. All parts are closely related to the needs and aims of the addict who is seeking recovery, and to the purpose of the Fellowship which is to make recovery available to all. The greater the base (as we grow in unity, in numbers, and in fellowship) the broader the sides of the pyramid, and the higher the point of freedom."

It is generally accepted that this description was written by an NA member named Greg P. who also wrote several other pieces of NA lit. Sadly, Greg passed away in the 1990's.

Answer 2

The Narcotics Anonymous symbol consists of a square encasing a circle, inside which are a diamond and a smaller square. The square represents a plan of action, the circle represents wholeness or oneness, the diamond represents self-discipline and self-awareness, and the smaller square represents service to others. Together, these elements symbolize the holistic approach to recovery advocated by Narcotics Anonymous.