The original ancient Hermetic Sigil (pronounced: Sij-ill), or symbol, for "Love" was conveyed in a hand signal where the thumb and fingers formed the main constructs of the symbol. It was the sign of the Hierophant. In the highest spiritual context, the Hierophant represents a human being who has united all aspects of duality within themselves, an archetype representing the culmination of human development.

One of the earliest acclaimed Hierophants was Thoth, known in mythos as a God of the Egyptians. As a God-Being, he was venerated in Egypt from at least 3000 BC. He was given credit for inventing hieroglyphic writing. The ancient Egyptians often depicted Thoth as Ibis-headed, although he was also portrayed at times with the head of a baboon. The Greeks called Thoth "Hermes Trismesgistus," the latter name meaning "Thrice Great".

Throughout history both the sigil and the hand sign have taken on new identities. The sigil evolved to mean "astral world" before disappearing from common use altogether. The number and arrangement of fingers held aloft in Tarot images of the Hierophant throughout history varied according to existing culture.

Pagan practices were woven into modern religions to weld the new believers to their new home. The hand sign became notorious as The Devil's Triad - also known as il cornuto, cornuto the horn, horned hand, devil salute, horned devil, and twin-horned salute. The name "Il Cornuto" was first used in Sicily where the sign was used to cast spells and stop the "Evil Eye" cold.

The original meaning of the hand sign has sustained many reincarnations though today still remains a powerful symbol with diverse meaning to different people.

• The Devil's Triad is a sign of recognition among Satanists and Witches.

• Many people in the rock and roll world use this symbol, even in some "Christian" rock circles! The first band to use the Il Cornuto sign (and backmasking) was the Beatles! Motley Crue says it only means "Long Live Rock & Roll." Some concerts that you will see this sign used are: The Beatles, Ozzy Osbourne, Meatloaf, Rick James, Kiss, Utopia, Heart, Cheap Trick, Motley Crue, Frankie Goes to Hollywood, Coven, Kiss, Todd Rundgren, Dio, the Christian rock band Petra and Amy Grant.

• The sign language for "I love you", where the thumb is openly extended bears a resemblance to the original sign for "Love" used millenia ago. The sign for "love" is made by crossing both hands over your heart. (Middle of your chest.) Your hands may be closed or open, but the palms should face toward you.