Toba Batak houses are rich in symbolism and decoration.  The bindu matoga, a diagramatic representation of the perceived cosmic order, is a model for spatial organization and orientation.  The tow snakes represent the naga, or sea creature on which the world rests, while the 8 points represent the 8 cardinal directions perceived by the Toba.  The house is also divided into the underworld, human world, and spiritual world. 

The buffalo and the singa, which is a mythical animal figure, are important symbols included in the decoration of the house whose function is suggested to be protective.  Elements of the entire house are symbolically related to a buffalo's body.  The singa ornamentation is often placed at the end of the long sidewalls,  which provide even more protective symbolism. 

The continuous carved lines, which run the length of the walls, ensure unbroken good fortune for the house's inhabitants.