What is Saint Teresa of Avila's symbol?

Answer 1

St. Theresa's symbols are a heart, an arrow, and a book. The heart and arrow are her symbols because she is said to have had a vision where an angel pierced her heart with an arrow. The book is her symbol because she is one of the Doctors of the Church.

Answer 2

I can only guess at this. Years after she died the body of Teresa was exhumed and found to be uncorrupted. Upon close examination, her heart showed signs of Transverberation (piercing of the heart). This is a very special gift from Our Lord for those saints who had a very special devotion to him. The heart piercing does not kill the person but leaves behind a permanent scar of the cardiac tissue which is clearly visible if the body is autopsied after death.

Answer 3

Teresa of Avila is represented by:

nun wearing the habit of a Discalced Carmelite

Carmelite nun with her heart pierced by an arrow held by an angel

Carmelite nun holding a pierced heart, book and crucifix

Carmelite nun with book and quill

Carmelite nun receiving a message from a dove

Answer 4

Saint Teresa of Avila's symbol is a heart pierced by an arrow, which represents her profound love for God and her suffering in her spiritual journey. It also symbolizes her passion and dedication to the Catholic faith.