The Problem of Signifier Points about the Definition of "Signifier" in the Symbolic Theories of Anthropology

In semantic theories it is stated that a symbol is a combination of three elements: Signifier, Signified and Signification. Commonly the word of symbol “is used for any object, act, event, quality, or relation which serves as a vehicle for a conception – the conception is the symbol's "meaning"“. Most of thinkers did not discuss aspects of Signifier for the people and how they perceive it. This issue can be stated as "the problem of signifier".In this paper I explain that in my fieldwork among Shias in Lucknow, how this presupposition of symbol theory does not work. Ta'ziyeh or Zarih are central and important sacred symbols in this community. Not only they do not have fixed, shared or neutral idea for signifiers in these symbols, but also they have multiple forms (signifiers) in the devotees` perspectives that are commonly changeable and unfixed.Accordingly, it should be considered in anthropological and semantic theory about symbol that signifier in its pluralistic and variable forms is a positive and active factor in producing of meaning and the way in which people perceive and interpret a sacred symbol firstly depends on their physical and sensual perception of the form or signifier.