Tibetan symbolism. Non-Silk Road

Hello, dear readers – seekers of knowledge and truth!

Today we invite you to talk about Buddhist attributes. We will talk about objects that are often used during Buddhist practices, as well as about the attributes of Buddhas and bodhisattvas in iconography. For your convenience, we have arranged them in alphabetical order.

You will also learn about the eight noble symbols of Buddhist teachings.

Attributes of practice

The attributes of the practice are used by monks and lay Buddhists during various rituals - events held in temples.

Bumpa- a special jug without a handle, filled with water during cleansing rituals. It is often decorated with precious metals and stones. In normal times it is kept near the altar.

Damaru- Tibetan drum used in rituals. Previously, they were made from two skulls - male and female, which showed the impermanent nature of samsara and duality. When the damar was struck, a single sound was produced that united the two parts of the dual world. Nowadays the frame is usually made of wood wrapped in leather.

Lamp- a candle with a bowl into which ghee is poured during rituals. The light of the candle symbolizes the future enlightenment of the worshiper.

Lungta– one flag or several multi-colored flags on which mantras, passages of scriptures, yantras are applied. When it comes to several flags, the colors alternate: yellow, green, white, blue, red. They are hung on roofs, between trees, in the mountains, and every time the wind blows the canvases, the mantras written on them are read.

Copper plates- an instrument used in music in the form of two metal bowls. Also known as dulcimer. Emitting a loud ringing sound when played, they personify the sound as a whole. They are often placed on the altar, acting as offerings to the deities.

Prayer drum– inside the drum there are scrolls on which the mantra is written several thousand times. It is believed that every time a person spins the drum clockwise, he repeats this mantra out loud repeatedly and fills the space with its energy. Buddhism also has small hand drums.

– icon painting in Tibetan. It consists of paintings depicting Buddhas and Bodhisattvas. They can even be made of gold and silver - such masterpieces are very expensive.

Beads– special beads for reading mantras. 108 beads are strung on a thread and fastened together. They are crowned by the main, 109th bead, which is also called the “Buddha’s head”.

Attributes of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas

Buddhas are depicted with these attributes on thangkas; they symbolize some special ability or feature. Some of them are also used in rituals, and in addition, deities are depicted with them.

Amrita- nectar that promises immortality.

Battle ax- found among the warlike creatures of the pantheon and illustrates deliverance from the attachments and passions of our world. The ax handle is often decorated with a vajra.

Vajra– translated means “lightning strike” or “diamond stone”, also known as “dorje”. Initially, it was an enduring attribute of the god Indra, but then it became widespread in Buddhist iconography and began to personify indestructibility, the inability to destroy.

It looks like this: the central part is in the form of a ball, from which two ends with 5 petals emanate as a reflection of the five wisdoms. You can see it in this photo.

The vajra is used in Tibetan Buddhist rituals. It is often supplemented with a bell. In this case, the bell is squeezed in the left palm, and the vajra in the right.

Digug– also known as a cutter. This knife, bent in the shape of a crescent, is common in Tibet. Previously, it was used as a tool for butchering animals, but now it has more of a symbolic character - it cuts off internal poisons and helps to get rid of one’s own ego.

Mirror– reflects the purity of the teaching and its boundless knowledge. It is also known as melong and is shaped like a circle and is usually framed with a copper alloy.

Kapala- a bowl that was made from the top of a human skull. In Buddhist paintings, angry or warlike deities are usually depicted with a kapala in their hands. It may seem strange at first glance, but dripping is considered a sign of compassion.

Nowadays such bowls are made of metal, covered with bronze, and sometimes even with gold and jewelry. They are used in tantric rituals, filled with wine and presented to deities as offerings.

Book- as an attribute of many Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, it is associated with the Prajnaparamita Sutra and symbolizes the wisdom of the Buddha’s teachings as a whole.

Bell– often goes in tandem with a vajra, which is attached to the handle of the bell. Buddha Vajradhara is always depicted with a bell and a vajra. In tantra it is associated with the feminine principle.

Khatwanga– a rod with two skulls, a vajra, a trident and a vessel on top. This vessel is filled with a liquid that grants immortality. Initially it was possessed by Shiva, and now Padmasambhava and the dakini Vajravarahi are depicted with a khavatanga in their hands.

Lute- a musical instrument with seven strings. He is an integral companion in the images of Saraswati - the goddess of knowledge, wisdom and art.

Sword- the weapon of the bodhisattva Manjushri, helps to cut off passions and attachments, thereby relieving suffering. It also reflects wisdom.

Swastika– refers to the 65 Buddha symbols. It was seen on the foot of Buddha Shakyamuni, and later he was often marked with a swastika on his chest, as well as on his throne.

Despite the obsessive associations of the swastika with Nazi Germany, this attribute appeared in Buddhism much earlier, symbolizing good luck. This is confirmed by the translation of the word “svasti”, which means “success”.

Mortar- a place where the relics of great Buddhists are kept, and therefore it is considered sacred. Worship takes place here. Also called "chaitya", they are constructed with a circle or square base.

They have a center and four sides, which correspond to the cardinal directions and the five dhyani buddhas - the wisdom buddhas. can be found especially often in Thailand, Bhutan, Nepal, Cambodia and the rest of the Buddhist world.

Eight Noble Symbols

As a supplement, we also suggest that you familiarize yourself with the eight most common symbols of Buddhism. They are often used as talismans - they decorate the home with them and carry them with them. They remind a person to follow the spiritual path.

1. Two goldfish

Pisces in the sea represent a person’s struggle with attachments and further victory, because they are not afraid of water and go wherever they want. The golden hue indicates achievements during meditation and success on the path of Buddhism.

The number of fish speaks of the duality of our nature and the need to achieve harmony between two components: good actions and accumulated wisdom. There is another view on the symbolism of the two fish: some believe that this is the sacred river Ganges and the Yamuna, or Jamna, flowing into it.

First of all, it is a symbol of mercy, love and purity. A lotus flower grows in a swamp, I rise from the mud through dirty water, it reaches the top and opens, remaining clean. It’s the same with people who follow Buddhist philosophy: they may be surrounded by dirt and filth, but they themselves remain pure in thoughts and deeds.

The shades of the value depend on the color of the bud:

• pink - leads to a bodhisattva or to the Buddha himself;
• white – conveys spirituality and immaculate purity, morality, openness.

3. White sink

It is twisted to the right side and symbolizes the awakened state, the appearance of the Buddha and his teachings, which brings light to the lives of thousands of people. The white shell itself becomes a sign of good news and reminds sentient beings that Buddhahood can be achieved.

It is not for nothing that the shell used to be a wind instrument - it awakened the soul, just as Buddhist philosophy awakens a person from the sleep of ignorance.

4. Precious vessel

His images can be found everywhere: on thangkas, in the stucco moldings of monasteries, in sculpture. It accompanies many deities, because it promises a healthy, rich, happy life and longevity.

5. Wheel of Law

It is also called the Wheel of Dharma or Dharmachakra. This is a wheel with eight spokes that represent the essence of the Eightfold Path, sacred to Buddhists. The best character traits of a true Buddhist and wisdom converge at the central point.

6. Victory banner

It symbolizes the power of Buddhist teachings, which constantly defeats the shackles of ignorance. Dharma will live as long as the Universe lives. The victory banner is located on the top of the sacred Mount Meru, or Sumeru - where the center of the universe is located.

7. Infinity knot

The symbolism of this attribute is multifaceted. It reflects the continuous series of rebirths in samsara, the infinity of our world, and the inexhaustibility of Buddhist knowledge. The knot indicates the mutual dependence of all things in nature, and in particular wisdom and mercy.

In modern culture, the infinity knot is considereddecorationand a miraculous accessory that brings good luck to its owner. Often a knot is woven with one’s own hand: by tying a thread, you can capture energy, and by untying the knot, on the contrary, you can release it.

An umbrella, as you know, in ordinary life helps a person escape from the rain on the way somewhere. The precious umbrella works in the same way in Buddhist thought - it accompanies people on the path of dharma, helping them cope with difficulties.

Conclusion

Thank you very much for your attention, dear readers! We hope you learned something new today. If you liked the article, share it with your friends and subscribe to the mailing list so as not to miss new interesting articles. Let knowledge fill your every day!

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After Buddha Shakyamuni achieved enlightenment under the bodhi tree, the deities presented him with 8 auspicious symbols: Brahma was the first of the deities to appear before the Buddha with the golden Dharmachakra - the Wheel of Teaching; the heavenly deity Indra brought a white shell to proclaim the true teaching; the earthly deity Stavar is a precious vessel full of the nectar of immortality; other deities brought Buddha two goldfish, a lotus flower, a victory banner and a precious umbrella (Chemitdorzhiev). This is how the legend interprets it.

All these eight symbols became Symbols of Dharma, indicating its direct connection with people's lives. These symbols are also called the Eight Symbols of Fortune, since the Wisdom of the Buddha's Teachings allows one to achieve well-being and happiness. They are also considered the best and most powerful talismans.

If you possess all eight symbols, then complete success will definitely come - from spiritual harmony to material well-being.

But you can purchase one that you think you need most.

Of course, you have a question: “How to choose exactly that auspicious item?”

You need to choose the most “favorable subject” for you by listening to your inner voice. To do this, look at eight pictures depicting “auspicious objects” and choose the one you like best. Let your thoughts flow freely, but don't think too much - let it be a gut reaction.

The symbol of the Golden Wheel of Teaching with a thousand spokes, or also called the “Wheel of Drachma,” is a symbol of the giving of the liberating Teaching by the Buddha. Buddhas spin the golden wheel of Dharma in all worlds to help beings get rid of ignorance, the source of all suffering. This wheel is usually depicted with eight spokes and symbolizes the achievement of peace of wisdom and mind.

This talisman is suitable for those who are in search of a soul mate who can give happiness and wisdom.

This symbol generates the energy of tolerance and harmony. It is better to place it in the northeast corner of the house.

A pair of goldfish - Double fish - symbolizes independence, rejection of conventions, emancipation. This symbol is a symbol of fearlessness and joy with which the fish swims in the ocean of samsara, independently choosing the direction of its movement and not being afraid of suffering. A symbol of the ease and success of the bodhisattva’s rebirths in the worlds of samsara and the ability to joyfully and unhinderedly glide along its waves.

A pair of fish is an excellent protection against accidents, evil thoughts and sidelong glances. In addition, the talisman will bring you much-needed material prosperity.

In exotic goods shops, this “auspicious item” is most often sold in the form of keychains and pendants. You can also carry them in your wallet - then the most powerful direction of influence of a pair of fish will be to protect your well-being from scammers and waste.

Symbol A pair of golden fish is an excellent protection against accidents, sidelong glances and evil thoughts. In addition, the talisman will also bring material prosperity.

The victory banner symbolizes activity, energy, sociability, the victory of the Buddha's teachings over ignorance and death. This is a symbol of victory over all internal and external limitations, overcoming all obstacles - mainly these are two veils: the five interfering feelings (and their combinations) and rigid ideas.

The victorious banner is a sign of military superiority. Means victory over suffering, death and ignorance.

The Victory Banner talisman brings good luck in the form of a happy occasion that you just need to be able to take advantage of. It should be placed where you think luck is more desirable: in the car, in the office, at home

You don’t have to go to an exotic goods store to get this talisman. You can make yourself a beautiful flag, the main thing is that it contains three colors from top to bottom - scarlet, green and white.

Endless or Mystical Knot - symbolizes balance, unity of wisdom and compassion, devotion and harmony.

The endless knot is a symbol of the infinity of intellectual knowledge and the non-conceptual depth of the Teachings of the Buddha (Dharma). It demonstrates the interdependence of all conditioned things and phenomena manifesting in the world, as well as the unity, non-duality of manifestations and emptiness.

The mystical knot is depicted on pendants and other jewelry, on objects of decorative and applied art (boxes, vases, screens), embroidered on clothes, and woven into carpet patterns. Whether you use it for interior decoration or as a toilet accessory, it will work equally well.

This symbol is sometimes called the "happiness knot". It attracts the energy of health and longevity, protects against disappointment in people. It also guarantees a long and happy life with your loved one.

A precious white umbrella symbolizes protection from negative influences; it attracts the energy of universal respect and success. It is better to place such an umbrella in the house diagonally from the front door to prevent any negativity.

A precious umbrella is a symbol of royal grandeur and protection, wealth, power and social status. The coolness provided by the precious umbrella protects from the scorching rays of suffering, irresistible unfulfilled desires, neuroses and harmful forces.

An umbrella implies protection from negative influences. In addition, it is an emblem of dignity and high rank (an umbrella in the East was always held over nobles as a sign of respect for them). This "auspicious object" attracts the energy of career success and universal respect - provided it is red or purple and made of pure silk.

Symbol White lotus flower - symbolizes restraint and sympathy, purity of teaching. The Lotus Flower indicates Awakening - the full blossoming of the Buddha's potential. Just as a lotus flower grows from mud and mud and opens, preserving its beauty unsullied on the surface of a swamp, so too are beings breaking through the defilements and obscurations of samsara, carrying through life the shining qualities of the absolute - “mind”, such as intuitive wisdom, joy , fearlessness, active compassion and love.

Lotus is an image of purity and perfection. Its energy promotes a feeling of peace and tranquility, prevents betrayal and betrayal, and directs thoughts to good goals. Buying a painting or something with a lotus image is not a problem, and it will bring the greatest benefit if you place it in the living room or bedroom.

This talisman is best placed in the living room or bedroom.

A white shell twisted clockwise symbolizes musicality, romance, and emotionality. This is a symbol of the vibrating sound of Dharma, awakening beings from the sleep of ignorance. Reaching the ears of beings with different abilities and predispositions, the sounds of the Buddha's Teaching resonate with the inner Buddha nature of beings, opening the path to liberation for everyone, encouraging everyone to listen to the best in themselves, to reflect, and subsequently to enter the Bodhisattva Path.

To attract “reputation luck,” it is better to place this symbol in the southern part of the house, and to improve love affairs, it is better to place it in the southwestern part.

Only the shell with a light inner surface is positive. This is an excellent talisman for those whose work requires the ability to get along with people and who benefit from fame.

A precious vessel that fulfills all desires (vase) symbolizes sophistication, generosity and prudence. It is a symbol of a secret treasure, a repository of the nectar of prosperity, health and long life. Jewels pour out of it in an inexhaustible stream, giving those who develop on the spiritual path protection from poverty and untimely death.

A crystal or porcelain vase is a reservoir for storing good energy. If a beautiful vase is filled with valuable items (jewelry or banknotes), it will attract wealth.

Any auspicious symbol placed in a vase will enhance its effect.

A porcelain or crystal vase is a vessel for storing positive energy. If such a vase is filled with valuable items, it will attract wealth. If you put a pine branch in it, it will ensure a happy life for a married couple.

Leontyeva E.V. A Guide to Buddhism: An Illustrated Encyclopedia. M., 2012. p.243-245.

Chimitdorzhiev V.L. Fundamentals of Buddhist culture. Grades 4-5//Textbook for educational institutions. M., 2010.

There is a legend that when the Divine Sage of the Shakya family achieved Perfect Awakening, he was presented with eight auspicious symbols ( Skt. aṣṭamaṅgala; Tib. bkra shis rtags brgyad): golden fish, conch shell, precious vessel, lotus flower, wheel, victory banner, endless knot and umbrella. These symbols are popular in Tibet and in countries where Buddhism spread through the northern branch.

Two goldfish is a symbol of overcoming the Ocean of Samsara and achieving Nirvana. The achievement of Nirvana in Buddhist sutras is compared with the achievement of That Shore. What does "that shore" mean? There is this shore here. “This shore” means the rough world, the World of Passions. It can also be said that this is the world of six paths. Further, our subconscious has a close connection with the World of Forms and is directly related to our rebirth, and it is called the ocean of rebirths. The one who sailed into this ocean is again and again carried into the World of Passions - this is how the process of rebirth repeats again and again. Where is That Shore? This is the World Without Forms. If we have many worldly desires, when we try to reach That Shore, they will become an insurmountable obstacle, like raging waves in the ocean. And for a saint who has entered this ocean of rebirth, no obstacles will arise, since he has won victory over his own worldly desires. Therefore, goldfish are also a symbol of victory over worldly desires: fish are not afraid of the ocean and swim wherever they want. The golden color symbolizes merit gained through spiritual practice.

Precious vessel - This is a symbol of long life and health. It is also considered a symbol of wealth and prosperity. "Kumbha" in Sanskrit means water pot, pitcher, so the precious vessel has a corresponding shape. The lid of the vessel is crowned with a large jewel, which means that this is a precious vessel. The jewel crowning the lid of the vessel is a jewel that fulfills its intended purpose ( Skt. cintamani). There are two interpretations regarding the contents of the vessel. The first is the nectar of immortality inside. According to another interpretation, a precious vessel is a vessel filled with jewels. What do these jewels represent? This is a good reward for the virtuous deeds that we perform. If we accumulate good karma, we will definitely reap the fruits of happiness. And more about the meaning of cintamani. A jewel that fulfills its intended purpose is an attribute of Buddha Ratnasambhava and the Ratna family. Beings who have accumulated merit through strong will enter the World of Ratnasambhava. This means that, in parallel with virtuous actions, we should strengthen ourselves in patience, steadfastly enduring the return of bad karma for our negative deeds committed in the past. A jewel that fulfills a plan is a symbol of great merit acquired as a result of correct spiritual practice, a symbol of merit that makes it possible to carry out a plan.

Lotus flower - a symbol of holy love and holy compassion. And holy love and compassion, which are included in the four immeasurables, point to the soul of a bodhisattva. If the lotus is white, then it also symbolizes spiritual purity and holiness. The pink lotus symbolizes the Savior, and therefore the Buddha himself.

golden wheel with eight spokes symbolizes the Dharma, the Word of the Buddha. The eight spokes of this wheel symbolize the Noble Eightfold Path. The turning of the Wheel of Dharma in Buddhism is associated with the discovery and presentation of the true Law.

Victory Banner symbolizes the victory of Dharma over ignorance, and at the same time - overcoming the obstacles of Mara.

Endless knot has several interpretations. Some interpret it as a representation of the endless cycle of existence, others as a symbol of eternity, and still others as a sign of the inexhaustibility of the Buddha’s knowledge. This is also a symbol of the interdependence of all phenomena in the Universe. This is also the complex relationship between wisdom and compassion in the process of achieving Buddhahood.

Precious umbrella - a symbol of good deeds performed in order to protect living beings from diseases, harmful forces, obstacles, as well as the suffering of the three lower and three higher worlds.

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In the Hindu religion there are eight symbolic objects - ashtamangala, which means “eight auspicious”. At first, these items were used during the coronation of kings. Among them were: a throne, a swastika, a vase, a hooked scepter, a bottle... But over time, the set of such signs and symbols changed. The most popular are eight symbols that developed in the traditions of Buddhist mythology. An ancient legend says that all the items were brought as a gift to Prince Guatama when he achieved enlightenment. Each item has its own history and meaning. The set of all of them is called the eight emblems of glory or the eight signs of happiness.

(Shankha) The shell is similar in shape to the “horn of Triton”. This is the name in Europe for the shell of large mollusks that live in the seas off the coast of Southeast Asia. In the myths of ancient Greece, Triton is the son of Poseidon and Amphitrite. He is often depicted with a shell that acts as a forge. From the shell of the “horn of Triton” you can really make something like a musical wind instrument - a large horn. Therefore, the image of shankha in Buddhism is a symbol of the call to realize the precepts of the Buddha during his lifetime.

An auspicious symbol of Ashtamangala are shells twisted only in a spiral to the right; this direction gives a hint of the movement of the heavenly bodies. Modern stores sell a variety of gastropod shells. When giving such a gift, tell about the ancient meaning of this symbol in Buddhism.

(Srivatsa) Another name is the Tibetan knot. The knot symbol is depicted in the form of an intertwined ribbon, bent at right angles and which has no end. In modern Chinese souvenirs, the cords are so skillfully intertwined that they resemble an “endless knot.”

It is generally accepted that the prototype of the knot was an ancient symbol - a ball of intertwined snakes, which are associated with the kundalini energy and its movement along the right and left channels of the human body. In the traditional cultures of India, China, Tibet and Mongolia, the “endless knot” has its own meaning, symbolizing the endless cycle of existence, and the complex interrelation of opposite principles, as well as the wisdom of the Buddha, which is inseparable from his compassion. There are other interpretations related to the passage of time and complex spiritual quests.

The Western horoscope also contains the sign of Pisces, but unlike it, in this symbol the Pisces are turned with their heads towards each other. In a more ancient interpretation, they were compared to the two sacred rivers of India - the Ganges and the Yamuna. In the modern interpretation - with the eyes of Buddha. In Hindu mythology, fish is the first of the main ten avatars of the god Vishnu. By incarnating as a fish, Vishnu saved the founder of the human race from the flood. The most common interpretation of the symbol of two fish is associated with Samsara - the ocean of the cycle of life and endless rebirths. For fish, water is their native element, so they are compared to sages, for whom the storm of life is not terrible. Two fish mean liberation from the burden of passions; their gold color is a symbol of victory.

In ancient China, fish was given as a gift to the bride's parents on the occasion of their daughter's betrothal; amulets and talismans with a pair of fish are given to newlyweds for their wedding. It is believed that this amulet protects against misfortunes. It doesn’t matter at all what kind of fish are depicted, but if the fish has its own symbolism, then the effect of such an amulet is enhanced.

(Padme) It would be strange if among the symbols of Ashtamangala there was no lotus. Indian or sacred lotus is a common plant; thickets of its large rounded leaves can often be found in water bodies of Southeast Asia. In temples in India and Southeast Asia, you can see images of various deities seated on a giant lotus. Thus, lotus petals often surround the seated Prince Guatama, the founder of Buddhism. In this case, the lotus acts as a symbol of creative power, the place where it is born. Buddhist heaven is sometimes depicted as a place where people rest on lotus flowers. There is a myth in which a lotus emerges from the body of the god Vishnu, the petals of which give rise to mountains, valleys and rivers. In Indian mythology, the god Brahma was often depicted sitting on a lotus flower. The Indian goddess of fertility Lakshmi swam across the ocean on a lotus flower. Lotus figurine made of pink crystal is a symbol of love and good luck.

In Japanese culture, the image of a lotus is often used in jewelry. A crystal lotus is considered a positive amulet in Feng Shui. The transparent petals of the flower transmit negative sha energy through themselves, converting it into qi and evenly distributing it throughout the room. Crystal lotus fills the whole family with excellent health.

According to one Tibetan legend, when the Divine Sage achieved Perfect Awakening, he was presented with eight symbols called auspicious ones. Now they are very popular both in Tibet itself and in countries where Buddhism came through the northern branch. These signs are very ancient and are present in religions such as Hinduism and Jainism. They can also be found on the walls of Buddhist monasteries, and, of course, in the houses of believers. In this article we will look at eight symbols of Buddhism and reflect on their meaning.

1. Goldfish

This is a sign of achieving Nirvana and overcoming the Ocean of Samsara. In Buddhist sutras, achieving Nirvana is similar to achieving That Shore. What does it mean? To explain, it is necessary to define the opposite term, “This shore.” It symbolized the World of Passions, which consisted of six paths. Our subconscious interacts closely with the World of Forms and is directly related to rebirth (Ocean of Samsara). Those who sail on this ocean constantly find themselves in the World of Passion. This is how the process of rebirth occurs.

Where is That Shore located? He represents the World Without Forms. If a person has worldly desires, then they, like waves, will become a serious obstacle when trying to get to That Shore. And a saint who enters this ocean will overcome it without any problems, since he has conquered his worldly desires. This is where another meaning of the sign appeared: They have become above our worldly desires: fish have no fear of the ocean, they swim wherever they want. The golden color represents merit gained through spiritual practice. You may ask, why is there not one fish, but two? We think this is a hint hinting that in spiritual practice one must not only accumulate virtuous actions of thoughts, speech and body, but also develop wisdom.

There are other interpretations (that is, Buddhist symbols have multiple meanings). Historians believe that golden fish are two Indian rivers: the sacred Ganges and its deepest and longest tributary, the Yamuna. This is the pre-Buddhist explanation of this sign. In those days, the mentioned rivers personified the left and right channels in the etheric body of a person.

And in ancient texts, two goldfish were figuratively compared with the eyes of the Savior. Next we will look at other Buddhist symbols and their meanings. Some signs will also have multiple interpretations.

2. Lotus

The lotus flower is a symbol of holy compassion and love. And these two feelings are included in the four immeasurables and help to find the path to the soul of the Bodhisattva. The white lotus symbolizes holiness and spiritual purity. Pink is considered the sign of the Savior, that is, the Buddha himself.

It sinks into the silt, its stem passes through the water column, and its petals rise above it. They are open to the sun and clean. There is no defilement in the consciousness of an enlightened person. The three root poisons cannot poison the mind of a saint, just as dirty water cannot stay on the unsullied petals of a lotus.

3. Sink

Like other symbols of Buddhism, it has its own meaning. A white shell with a spiral twisting to the right is considered a sign of the Savior’s enlightenment, as well as good news to all beings about the opportunity to achieve his nature. In ancient times, the conch shell was a musical instrument (wind instrument). It is therefore not surprising that it symbolized sound that spread in all directions. Likewise, the teachings of the Buddha are transmitted everywhere, calling on all beings to awaken from the sleep of ignorance.

Most often in nature there are shells in which the spiral twists to the left. Shells with a right-handed spiral are very rare. It was they who were associated in the minds of people with special characteristics and were considered sacred. The direction of their spirals was associated with the movement of celestial bodies: stars, planets, including the Moon and the Sun.

4. Precious vessel

Belongs to the category “The most beautiful symbols of Buddhism”, pictures of which are present in any Buddhist temple. This is a sign of health, long life, as well as prosperity and wealth. The lid of the vessel is decorated with a jewel called cintamani (translated from Sanskrit - fulfilling one's plans).

You already know that Buddhist symbols can have several interpretations. So the contents of the jug have two interpretations. The first says that there is the nectar of immortality inside. Remember, Buddha Amitayus and Padmasambhava’s disciple Mandrava held such a jug on the thangkas. They gained eternal life and forgot what aging and death are. On the other hand, the Teachings of the Buddha say: in the Three Worlds, nothing can be eternal, only our true nature is eternal. By applying longevity practices, a practitioner can significantly prolong his existence and eliminate life’s obstacles. The main obstacle is energy shortage. Extending life is especially valuable if a person practices to achieve Liberation, improves in compassion and love, accumulates wisdom and merit, thereby becoming needed by other beings.

According to the second interpretation, this vessel is filled with jewelry. Moreover, you can take as many of them as you like, it does not become empty. What do the jewels symbolize? These are good rewards for beneficial deeds performed by people. One who accumulates positive karma will definitely reap the fruits of happiness.

5. Wheel of Dharma

The Wheel of Law is the fifth symbol of Buddhism, a photo of which is attached to the article. Its eight spokes reflect the essence of the teaching - adherence to the eight "noble principles": correct faith, behavior, speech, values, aspirations, earning a living, concentration and evaluation of one's own actions. The center of the wheel is a point of consciousness that radiates spiritual qualities.

6. Victory Banner

This symbol of Buddhism signifies the triumph of Dharma over ignorance, as well as the passage of the obstacles of Mara. This banner is located on the top of a mountain called Sumeru. As long as the Universe exists (the Heaven of Brahma and the World of Passion), this mountain of Perfection will be indestructible. Consequently, it is simply impossible to destroy the teachings of the Savior.

7. Endless knot

Some Buddhist symbols have multiple interpretations. And the endless knot falls into this category. For some it is the endless cycle of existence, for others it is a symbol of eternity, for others it is a sign of the inexhaustible knowledge of the Buddha. It is also a sign of the interdependence of all events in the Universe and the complex relationship between compassion and wisdom in the process of achieving Enlightenment. And to achieve it, you need to overcome the endlessly long path of the Mahayana. The path of the Bodhisattva is quite long and includes many kalpas.

There is also a hypothesis that the endless knot reflects another symbol, consisting of 2 intertwined snakes. The snake is one of the most ancient signs of kundalini, which came to India from Ancient Egypt. Most likely, the endless knot has a connection with the chandali. This is supported by the theory that the intertwining serpents are very similar to the movement of kundalini through the left and right channels of the etheric body.

8. Umbrella

The precious umbrella is the last auspicious symbol of Buddhism. While a person follows the path of Enlightenment (achieving Buddha nature), the sign helps him in overcoming obstacles.

Traditionally symbolized protection in India, as well as royal greatness. Since it was held above the head, it naturally symbolized respect and honor. For secular rulers, umbrellas were made from In the religious consciousness of most people, protection from bad weather was associated with protection from vices, pollution and passions that interfere with spiritual development. That is, just as a simple umbrella saves us from the rays of the sun or rain, its precious counterpart protects us from obstacles on the path to Awakening.

The Tibetan version of the umbrella shape was borrowed from the Chinese and Indians. The prototypes consisted of a silk dome and a wooden frame with spokes. There was fringe or frill along the edges. The silk was red, yellow, white or multi-colored, and the stem was dyed exclusively red or gold. In Tibet, the status of the owner could be determined by looking at the umbrella. Moreover, he was a symbol not only of secular power, but also of spiritual power. According to ancient legends, Teacher Atisha was revered to such an extent that he was given thirteen umbrellas to accompany him.

Conclusion

Now you know the main symbols of Buddhism. We hope you understand their meaning. Without meaning, they are just pretty pictures, decorations and trinkets. Use these symbols to achieve a state of Enlightenment.