In heraldry, the flaming heart is a vivid emblem of ardent love, religious devotion, zeal, courage, and sacrifice. The heart alone commonly represents sincerity, charity, loyalty, and human affection, but when it is shown enflamed or emitting flames, its meaning intensifies. It becomes a sign of burning faith, passionate commitment, and the inner fire of spiritual or moral purpose. In secular arms it may suggest bravery, constancy, or deep family loyalty. In religious and ecclesiastical heraldry, it often points to divine love, penitence, and the soul inflamed by grace.

The symbol is strongly associated with Christian imagery, especially the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary. These devotional emblems commonly show the heart aflame, sometimes pierced, crowned with thorns, or surmounted by a cross. While heraldic versions may be simpler, they draw from the same visual language of holy love and redemptive suffering. Flaming hearts appear in Catholic institutional arms, religious seals, and devotional badges, and they are also connected with saints noted for intense spiritual charity. The arms and insignia of many religious communities preserve this symbolism, and broader ecclesiastical context can be explored through resources such as the International Association of Amateur Heralds and the Heraldry Society.

As a charge, the flaming heart is often colored red with golden or natural flames, though heraldic tinctures vary. It may appear alone, held in a hand, pierced by arrows, joined with a cross, or combined with wings to suggest heavenly love and aspiration. Parker’s A Glossary of Terms Used in Heraldry offers useful terminology for charges such as hearts, flames, and devotional symbols, while examples of civic and institutional arms can be found at Heraldry of the World. In coats of arms, the flaming heart remains one of the most emotionally direct symbols, expressing love made active, faithful, and courageous.