The Seal of La Sierra University represents the core of our existence and our reason for being. Every element represents an important part of our mission.

The cross, as the pre-eminent symbol for Christ, is placed in the position of greatest importance in the design, and it superimposes the world. It is in the Greek form rather than the Latin, and the arms are made up of three strokes, symbolizing belief in the Trinity. This "threeness" is repeated in the triangular motif found in "La Sierra," the open books, the aim--To Seek, To Know, To Serve--and the braided strands of the border.

The opened books are displayed in deep perspective, as though on a scholar's desk, and their converging lines of projection focus at the center of the cross, indicating that Christ is at the heart of the University's life. The three books are "titled" by the three statements of the aim.

The symbol of two intersecting circles in the right-hand border is the mandorla, representing the person of Jesus Christ linking the two realms of heaven and Earth.

Finally, by joining the border to the motto--From Diversity, Community--to form a unified expression, the three strands sweep across the design to connect one side of the Pacific Rim with the other, and become unified and strengthened, in a braid that encompasses the University--and the world.