The original Sanskrit word/symbol means "good luck." It hasn't completely fallen into disrepute in Asia, where it has retained its that meaning. Of course, there was a minor uproar when a Pokeman trading card with the symbol hit the U.S. The ancient Romans were also fond of it.

It took truly disgusting minds to adopt as their sign a backwards symbol for good luck. I'd say that's a good sign they knew they were evil.