Buddhist tattoos and their meaning. Symbols of Buddhism: main signs and their meaning Symbolic image of Buddha

1.Good Umbrella. Just as an ordinary umbrella protects from the sun and rain, this symbol represents the protection of the mind from the sultry heat of obscurations, and also protects you from suffering.

A symbol of good deeds performed to protect living beings from diseases, harmful forces, obstacles, as well as the suffering of the three lower and three higher worlds. Just as an ordinary umbrella protects from rain and heat, so a precious umbrella provides protection from the adversities and misfortunes of samsara.

2. They are called so because of the shine emanating from their scales, similar to the shine of gold. Usually, fish is a decoration and a sign of the well-being of rivers and lakes. So these fish represent full-fledged wealth.

A symbol of deliverance from suffering and achievement of spiritual liberation. Just as a fish swims in water without knowing any barriers, so a person who has achieved enlightenment knows no boundaries or obstacles.

3. Precious Vase. The storehouse of all realizations, which is the basis of priceless virtues and pure virtues.

Symbol of long life, wealth and prosperity. Used in Buddhist ceremonies and rituals.

4. Lotus. Like a lotus flower, born unsullied from mud, so here it personifies non-attachment to samsara, although it resides in it.

In Buddhism, this is a traditional symbol of purity. The lotus is born in muddy swamp water, but emerges unsullied and pure. Likewise, beings born in one of the worlds of samsara, but who sincerely practice the noble teachings of the Buddha, are able to get rid of delusions over time.

5. White shell, with a curl turned to the right. This shell is very rare. It is believed that a mollusk acquires it after five continuous births as an ordinary mollusk. The sound of the conch shell represents the euphonious voice of Dharma.

A symbol of spreading the Buddha's teachings and awakening from the sleep of ignorance. Just as the sound of a conch shell flies unhindered in all directions, so the teachings of the Buddha spread everywhere, awakening sentient beings from the sleep of ignorance.

6. Just as this knot has no end, so this symbol personifies the complete acquisition of the Immeasurable Virtues and the Five Types of Primordial Wisdom.

A symbol of the interdependence of all phenomena and living beings in the Universe.

7. Victory banner. It means victory over the enemy and obstacles, and represents victory over demons, mara and adherents of false views.

A symbol of the victory of the Buddha's teachings over death, ignorance, as well as over everything harmful and destructive in this world.

8. Wheel of Dharma. This is the wheel of Chakravartin, the Lord of the world, just as it is the means of his transportation, with eight sharp spokes that cut through obstacles on the way, so this symbol personifies the means of advancement towards Enlightenment. The spoke means Wisdom, experience, concentration, the axis means morality. Also three types of Higher Education, Three Baskets of Teaching. The eight spokes signify the Eightfold Path.

The eight spokes of the wheel symbolize the “noble eightfold path” of Buddha Shakyamuni:

1. Right View.
2. Correct thinking.
3. Correct speech.
4. Correct behavior.
5. Correct lifestyle.
6. Correct effort.
7. Right awareness.
8. Right contemplation.

Other images of 8 good symbols:

Set #2:

Set #3:

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The word “Buddha” itself comes from the Sanskrit root budh, which means “to comprehend, realize, awaken, heal consciousness.” It means spiritually awakened entities freed from the “death of the living.” Born in Nepal around 563 BC. Prince Siddharha Gautama Shakyamuni lived in luxury, completely isolated from the outside world. One day it occurred to him to visit the city. His father wanted to hide from him the ugliness and ugliness of the city and the rest of the world, but he still saw old age, illness and death - the frailty of the world. It was a shock for him to meet an ascetic who had renounced the world and collected alms, who declared that the prince should follow him and lead the same life.

The prince escaped from the palace and began to wander around the world. Over many years of wandering, he created a creed that is still followed by many millions of his followers.

The Brahmins were the enemies of his teaching, since they considered it heretical, since the Buddha did not recognize the spiritual priority of the Brahmins, condemned their belief in the sacred action of Vedic rituals, blind devotion to every word of the Vedas and animal sacrifice, denied caste inequality and all this undermined the authority of the priestly class. After Buddhism ceased to be dangerous for the Brahmins and due to the fact that it had a great influence on Hinduism and was significantly modified under the influence of the latter, Buddha was recognized as an avatar of Vishnu and included in the pantheon of Hindu deities. However, Buddhists oppose this.

Buddha figures are most often found in a sitting posture, padma asana, on a lotus pedestal, legs crossed and feet resting on the thighs.

If he teaches dharma, his eyes are closed; between his eyebrows is a small raised point of symbolic significance, sometimes made of a precious stone called an urna, or tilak (originally it was in the form of a curl of hair). The earlobes are strongly extended downwards.

It is believed that the Buddha always resisted having his image captured because he did not want him to be made into a human being. symbols worship.

Below are the main Buddhist Symbols:

Since ancient times, such symbolic objects as the Wheel with eight spokes and the Bodhi Tree have been considered signs personifying the Buddha.

The wheel with eight spokes, or “Dharmachakra” in Sanskrit, symbolizes the rotation by Buddha of the Wheel of Truth, or the Wheel of Law (“dharma” - truth, law; “chakra” - wheel). According to legend, soon after Buddha achieved Enlightenment, the god Brahma appeared to him from heaven and ordered Buddha to teach people, giving him the Dharmachakra.

The first sermon of the Buddha, held in the Deer Park in the city of Sarnath, is called “Dharmachakra Parivartan”, and the mudrasermon is called “Dharmachakra mudra”. The Buddha is also called the Wheel Spinner - by spinning the wheel, thereby starting a new cycle of his teachings, he subsequently reverses fate. The Dharmachakra has eight spokes, each symbolizing the eightfold noble path. At the center of the Wheel are three segments that represent the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha.

The Dharmachakra can also be divided into three more parts, each of which will personify the components of Buddhist teachings - the hub of the wheel (the culture of behavior), the spokes (the culture of wisdom) and the rim (the culture of meditation).

Very often, an image of the Dharmachakra surrounded by deer is placed above the entrances to Buddhist monasteries - this is a symbol of the presence of the Buddha’s teachings in such monasteries.

The symbol of the Bodhi tree is associated with the idea of ​​the tree under which Buddha visited Enlightenment.

After six years of wandering through the villages, the Buddha ended up in a forest on the banks of the Naranjara River, not far from the place where the city of Bodh Gaya is now located. Sitting under the Bodhi tree in deep meditation, he finally realized his true nature. The Buddha spent the next seven days under the same tree, experiencing a sense of freedom and comprehending the scope of his new knowledge. The Buddha spent the next four weeks under other trees - the banyan tree, the mukalinda tree and the rajayatana tree, and then again under the banyan tree. There are legends associated with each of these weeks spent under the tree. The Tree of Enlightenment is called ficus religiosa in Latin - “sacred tree”. It is also known as pipe tree. Buddhists most often call it the Bodhi tree, or Bo tree. The word "bodhi" means "enlightenment" in Pali. A descendant of the tree under which the Buddha sat still grows in Bodh Gaya, and Bodhi trees are commonly found in Buddhist centers around the world.

Buddha's footprints

These Buddhist symbols symbolize the path of gods, saints or demonic spirits, etc. Footprints of Buddha and Vishnu are found throughout India. Kühn, in his book Rock Art of Europe, says that the footprints of the Virgin Mary can be seen in a chapel in Würzburg, and those of Christ in a hut in Rosenstein, Swabia.

Means the divine presence or visit of a holy person, some predecessor, as a hint for a follower or adherent. Footprints going in opposite directions signify coming and going, past and present; past and future.

There are seven things imprinted on the Buddha's feet: a swastika, a fish, a diamond staff, a conch shell, a flower vase, the Wheel of the Law, and Brahma's crown. This is the trace of the deity that man must follow. Islam: “If you do not know the way, look where its traces remain” (Rumi).

Donations and offerings

In the East, the practice of donations is very common. Each offering has its own meaning. Thus, matches or candles are offered to dispel the darkness of human ignorance, and incense is offered to increase a person’s spirituality. The practice of giving is believed to be a good way to combat greed and attachment to things.

In Tibet, almost all types of donations are replaced by bowls of water, which symbolize the offering of water for drinking or washing feet. You can also offer flowers, incense, matches and candles, incense and food. This tradition originates from the ancient custom of receiving guests.

Lotus

The most important Buddhist symbol, the Lotus symbolizes complete purification of the body, speech and thoughts, as well as the prosperity of good deeds and freedom. The lotus, like a Buddhist, goes through many stages of the path: it grows from mud (samsara), striving upward through clear waters (purification) and rising from the depths, it gives birth to a beautiful flower (Enlightenment).

The white color of the petals represents purity, while the stem of the lotus is similar to the teachings of the Buddha, which lifts the mind from the dirt of everyday existence and helps it purify.

Blessed Knot

The Blessed Knot represents the nature of reality, where all events are interconnected and exist in the form of cells of a karmic web.

Having neither beginning nor end, this knot symbolizes the infinite wisdom of the Buddha, as well as the unity of teaching and wisdom.

Wheel of Dharma (Dharmachakra)

The Wheel of Dharma (Dharmachakra) represents the teachings of Buddhists.

According to legend, the Wheel was given to Buddha by Brahma after Buddha achieved Enlightenment.

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.

The Endless or Mystical Knot symbolizes balance, the 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 objects, 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.

In Buddhism, as in any other religion, there are religious symbols that signify any manifestations of universal life energy or aspects of teaching. Unlike the symbols of other cults, the symbols of Buddhism have a dual meaning - one of them relates to society and history, and the other is directly related to the spiritual component (usually enlightenment).

Good symbols of Buddhism

Among the symbols of Buddhism, there are eight most favorable (they are also called good). For Buddhists, they are what brings the protection of heaven and, accordingly, protects from various kinds of life’s misfortunes. Their significance for Buddhists is enormous.

The symbol of Buddhism, the Divine Good Umbrella, represents the spiritual protection of the Buddha, which he extends to all living beings. On a gross material level, the Umbrella represents a symbol of nobility, wealth and respect. For an ordinary person, this had a certain meaning - the more umbrellas a person’s servants carried, the higher his status in society.

On a spiritual level, the Umbrella was a talisman for everyone from their life’s sufferings, from all sorts of obstacles and illnesses, including mental ones. The yellow or white color of the Good Umbrella symbolizes the spiritual power of the Buddha. The dome of the Umbrella represents wisdom, and the decorations in the form of fringes or frills represent how compassion is shown in this world for all living on Earth.

Goldfish are not actually made of gold, but their scales sparkle in the sun in such a way that they dazzle with their brilliance. These are two sacred golden carps, which in the East are considered practically deities. For society they have the meaning of real natural resources, abundance, well-being of land and water spaces. Since Pisces is a couple, they are also considered a symbol of the spouses’ fidelity and their long life.

On a more subtle level, Pisces symbolize the achievement of spiritual wealth, and liberation from the boundaries and framework of earthly existence. Fish swim freely in river and ocean waters - like them, a person who has achieved true enlightenment is infinitely free and happy.

The Precious Vase or Vase of Abundance is a symbol of prosperity, a long happy life and the realization of your plans. This is a golden ceremonial vessel, decorated with lotus images and inlaid with precious stones. The neck of the Vase is sealed with a cork made of wood, which can fulfill any desire, and is tied with a silk scarf from the world of the gods. It is believed that the Precious Vase is always full, no matter how much is taken from it.

On a spiritual level, the Vase is the focus of spiritual merits and virtues, as well as a symbol of the embodiment of good intentions and desires. The Vase also has a meaning of peace, which is why these ceremonial objects are usually buried on the territory of temples.

The Lotus Flower is perhaps the most famous of all the symbols of Buddhism; it is familiar even to those who have no idea about this teaching. It is a symbol of perfection, holiness and spiritual purity. Quite often, followers of the Buddha are depicted as being on a lotus flower - this is an illustration of their involvement in holiness.

Just as a lotus flower grew out of the mud and turbidity of swamps, remaining pure and unsullied, a Buddhist adept who sincerely follows the path of his Teacher is able to purify himself physically and spiritually, and, in addition, get rid of the attachments imposed on a person by this world.

The Lotus flower, among other things, is a symbol of independence from Samsara - the endless circle of lives and deaths, and therefore is of great importance for followers of Buddhism.

The White Shell is an indispensable attribute of all ancient Indian gods, with the help of which they proclaimed victory over their enemies. The sound of the shell scared away evil demons, instilling in them fear of the power of the gods. This is a symbol of the great voice of Dharma.

The curl of the White Shell is turned not to the left, like in ordinary mollusks, but to the right. According to the teachings of Buddhism, in order to acquire the right curl, the mollusk must live five lives in a row as one of the ordinary creatures.

In Buddhism, the Shell has meaning as a symbol of the spread of the teachings of Buddhism and its superiority over other cults. The sound of the Shell spreads in all directions - also the teachings of Buddhism freely penetrate into all corners of the Earth, acquiring its true meaning.

The Endless Knot symbol represents the connection of all living beings and everything that happens in the Universe. The knot has neither beginning nor end - it is a symbol of a person’s absolutely complete acquisition of all wisdom and virtues.

The knot can have different shapes - it can be a swastika, which is located on the chest of Buddha, or a curl of happiness that Krishna wears. The Knot can also have the shape of a diamond, which closes at all its corners. In addition, Buddhists see the contours of the Endless Knot in the meaning of those marks located on the cobra's hood. At the spiritual level of Buddhism, the Knot is infinite compassion for all living things and the highest degree of wisdom.

The Banner of Victory or the Banner of Victory - on the material level symbolizes victory over obstacles and enemies, over ignorance and everything false that generally exists in the world. The Victory Banner existed back in the days of the ancient Indian kings and was a cylindrical banner with an emblem attached to a wooden pole.

For Buddhism, the Banner of Victory is a symbol of the Buddha’s superiority over all demons and the god of illusions, Mara, as well as over all world malice and aggression. It is believed that the Buddha's teachings conquered ignorance and death, since he was able to achieve divine enlightenment and break out of the circle of Samsara.

The last eighth good symbol is the Wheel of Dharma. It has meaning as a symbol of change and constant movement forward. This Wheel is a means of transportation for the Lord of the World, Chakravartin. It is shown with eight spokes, a hub with three or four scrolls and a rim decorated with ribbons and lotus flowers. The spokes are the eightfold path of the Buddha, the axis of the wheel represents morality as the foundation. The curls on the hub are overcoming desire, anger and ignorance (if there are three of them) or symbols of the teaching of the Four Truths (if there are four).

Eight spokes cut through all the obstacles in their path that prevent them from reaching true enlightenment. All eight qualities must be correct - view, thinking, speech, behavior, lifestyle, effort, awareness and contemplation. The faster the Wheel of Dharma moves, the faster a person's spiritual growth occurs if he follows the Eightfold Path.

There are other, less globally important Buddhist symbols. This is a mandala, which is a model of the Universe where deities live, a mantra is a mystical sound formula that can influence the material world, and a stupa is a sacred ritual structure, which is a model of the universe and the body of the Buddha himself. Also, Hindu symbols have taken root in Buddhism - the Vanaspati illusion mask, the swastika twisting to the right, the chakra, which in Hinduism was a symbol of the power of the gods, as well as the well-known mantra of compassion OM or, which has the meaning of an absolute syllable. So the symbolism of Buddhism did not appear out of nowhere.

This symbol represents the protection of the mind from the sultry heat of obscurations, and also protects from suffering. A symbol of good deeds performed to protect living beings from diseases, harmful forces, obstacles, as well as the suffering of the three lower and three higher worlds. Just as an ordinary umbrella protects from rain and heat, so a precious umbrella provides protection from the adversities and misfortunes of samsara.

The umbrella is a traditional symbol of noble birth and protection. Its shadow protects from the scorching sun, its coolness symbolizes protection from the painful heat of suffering, desire, obstacles, diseases and harmful forces. As a symbol of noble birth and special wealth, an umbrella indicates position in society: the more umbrellas carried by those around you, the higher the status. Traditionally, thirteen umbrellas corresponded to the status of a king, and early Buddhism in India adopted this number as a symbol of the Buddha's supreme position - the "universal monarch" or Chakravartin. Thirteen umbrella-shaped wheels connect to the conical spiers of the stupas, which mark the major events of the Buddha's life or contain his relics.

An umbrella over one's head naturally signifies glory and respect, which led to its emergence as a significant symbol in early Buddhist art. A precious white umbrella was once presented to Buddha by the lord of the gods, Mahadeva, as a head decoration. Symbolizes protection from disease, evil spirits and suffering in this and future lives. On a spiritual level, it dispels anger, passion, pride, envy and stupidity.

According to another version, it is believed that the Naga king presented the Buddha with an umbrella decorated with precious stones. The umbrella was made of gold, and the stones along its edges exuded nectar. Melodious bells hung from it, and the handle was made of sapphire. In the images there is often a large white umbrella of fine workmanship above the head of the Buddha, and this large white umbrella later evolved into the Vajrayana goddess Dukar. “White Umbrella” is one of the most complex yidams of the Vajrayana - thousand-armed, thousand-legged, thousand-headed and looking with “thousands of millions” of eyes. Her two-armed form is often depicted holding a white umbrella over a seated Buddha. A typical umbrella in Buddhism consists of a long white or red sandalwood handle or shaft, topped with a small golden lotus, a vase and a jeweled tip. Its dome-like frame is covered with white or yellow silk and folds of silk fringe edge the edges along with multi-colored silk pendants and frills. Sometimes the umbrella is also decorated with peacock feathers, hanging necklaces made of precious stones and pendants made of yak tails.

The ceremonial silk umbrella is usually just under one and a half meters in diameter, allowing it to be held at least a meter above the head. Square or octagonal umbrellas are also common, and large yellow or red umbrellas are often hung above the throne of the chief lama, as well as above the image of the central yidam in monasteries and temples. A white or yellow silk umbrella is a symbol of spiritual dominion, while a peacock feather umbrella more often represents temporal power. The umbrella's dome symbolizes wisdom, and its hanging silk frills represent various methods of compassion or skillful means. The white umbrella that was offered to the Buddha most symbolizes his ability to protect all beings from delusions and fears.

2. Goldfish

They are called so because of the shine emanating from their scales, similar to the shine of gold. Usually, fish is a decoration and a sign of the well-being of rivers and lakes. So these fish represent full-fledged wealth. A symbol of deliverance from suffering and achievement of spiritual liberation. Just as a fish swims in water without knowing any barriers, so a person who has achieved enlightenment knows no boundaries or obstacles.

In Sanskrit, two fish are known as matsyaungma, which means “pair of fish.” This indicates their origin from the symbol of the two sacred rivers of India: the Ganga and the Yamuna. Metaphorically, these rivers represent the solar and lunar channels or psychic nerves (nadis) that arise from the nostrils and carry the intermittent rhythms of breath or prana.

In Buddhism, golden fish represent happiness and as they have complete freedom of movement in the water. They are also fertile and can reproduce very quickly. freedom from caste restrictions, easy to mix, touch

Fish often swim in pairs and in China a pair of fish symbolizes marital unity and fidelity. The two golden fish, female and male, are usually depicted symmetrically and in the shape of a carp with graceful tails, fins and gills, and long antennae starting from the upper jaw. Carps are traditionally considered the holy fish of the east due to their elegant beauty, size and longevity, as well as their association with certain benevolent deities. Golden fish are an attribute of the Indian Mahasiddha Tilopa, and symbolize his realization as well as his ability to liberate people from the ocean of cyclical existence - Samsara. According to one version, a pair of golden fish was given to Buddha by the god Vishnu as an ornament for his eyes. Symbolizes freedom from the fear of drowning in the ocean of suffering and spiritual liberation.

3. Precious Vase

The precious vessel that fulfills all wishes was presented to the Buddha by the god Shadana as an ornament for his throat. Symbolizes the fulfillment of all desires, both temporary (gaining longevity, wealth and merit), and the highest - gaining liberation and Enlightenment. The storehouse of all realizations, which is the basis of priceless virtues and pure virtues.

Symbol of long life, wealth and prosperity. The Vase of Jewels is mainly a symbol of some yids of wealth such as Dzambhala, Vaisravana and Vasudhara, it is their attribute and is usually placed at their feet. One form of the goddess of wealth Vasudhara stands on a pair of horizontal jewel vases from which flow an endless stream of precious stones.

As a sacred "vase of abundance" (Tib. bumpa zangpo), it has the property of spontaneous manifestation: no matter how many jewels are taken from the vase, it remains invariably full. A typical Tibetan jewel vase is depicted as an ornate golden vase with a lotus petal motif encircling its various parts. A single wish-granting jewel or a group of three jewels crowns its top edge as a symbol of the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha. The great vase of jewels, as described in the Mandala offering, is made of gold and adorned with numerous precious stones.

A silk scarf from the world of the gods is tied around its neck, and the top is sealed with a wish-granting tree. The roots of this tree exude concentrated water of longevity, miraculously creating all kinds of wealth. Sealed vases of jewelry can be placed or buried in sacred places of the earth, such as mountain passes, pilgrimage sites, springs, rivers and oceans. In this case, their function is to spread abundance and pacify the spirits living there.

4. Lotus

A white lotus flower with a thousand petals was given to Buddha by the god Kama as an ornament for his tongue. Symbolizes the purity of teaching and purification of body, speech and mind, leading to Enlightenment.

Like a lotus flower, born unsullied from mud, so here it personifies non-attachment to samsara, although it resides in it. In Buddhism it is a traditional symbol of purity. The lotus is born in muddy swamp water, but emerges unsullied and pure.

Likewise, beings born in one of the worlds of samsara, but sincerely practicing the noble teachings of the Buddha, are able to get rid of delusions over time. It represents the flowering of noble qualities that manifest themselves completely independently of the imperfections of cyclical existence. The lotus on which the buddha aspects sit or stand represents their sacred origin. They are spontaneously manifested, innately perfect and absolutely pure in body, speech and mind. These aspects appear in cyclical existence, but are completely uncontaminated by its shortcomings, emotional obstacles and mental veils. The lotus is the emblem of Amitaba - the red Buddha of the west and "the head of the lotus family or padma family."

The qualities of Amitaba are associated with the redness of fire, vital fluids, evening twilight, the summer season and the transformation of passion into discriminating wisdom. Amitaba's wife is Pandara and the red lotus is her attribute. The main bodhisattva of Amitaba is Padmapani Avalokiteshvara - “Lotus Holder” - the bodhisattva of great compassion. A lotus in Buddhism usually has four, eight, sixteen, twenty-four, thirty-two, sixty-four, one hundred or one thousand petals. These numbers symbolically correspond to the inner lotuses or chakras of the subtle body, as well as to the number of components of the mandala. As an attribute held in the hand, the lotus is usually pink or light red with eight or sixteen petals.

Lotus flowers can also be white, yellow, gold, blue and black. White Tara, for example, holds a sixteen-petalled white lotus utpala in her hands. The yellow or golden lotus is commonly known as padma, while the more common red or pink lotus is called kamala. The Sanskrit term utpala specifically refers to blue or black "night lotus", but its Tibetan equivalent under the same name can refer to any color lotus.

5. White shell, with a curl turned to the right

The white shell, twisted clockwise, was presented to the Buddha by the god Indra as an ornament for his ears. Symbolizes the sound of the Buddha's Teachings spreading freely everywhere and awakening disciples from the sleep of ignorance.

This shell is very rare. It is believed that a mollusk acquires it after five continuous births as an ordinary mollusk. The sound of the conch shell represents the euphonious voice of Dharma. A symbol of spreading the Buddha's teachings and awakening from the sleep of ignorance. Just as the sound of a conch shell flies unhindered in all directions, so the teachings of the Buddha spread everywhere, awakening sentient beings from the sleep of ignorance.

The white shell, whose spiral turns clockwise, is a famous Indian attribute of the heroic gods, whose mighty shells proclaimed their courage and victories in war. The fire-spewing conch of Vishnu was called Panchajanya, which means “having control over the five types of beings.” Arjuna's conch was known as Devadatta, which means "given by God" and its triumphant voice would strike terror into the enemy. The shell is akin to the modern horn as a war trumpet, as an emblem of strength, power and dominance. It is believed that her auspicious voice drives out evil spirits, wards off natural disasters and scares away harmful creatures.

Vishnu's fire conch (Panchajanya) is in his upper left hand and corresponds to the wheel or chakra in his upper right hand. The first five of the ten avatars of Vishnu hold these two attributes in their hands. In the Hindu tradition, Buddha is considered the ninth of the ten rebirths of Vishnu. When the great gods of the heavens Indra and Brahma are usually depicted in front of the Buddha's throne, they usually hold the attributes of Vishnu - a conch shell and a wheel - which is probably not a mere coincidence. Vishnu is also commonly known as the "great man" (Skt. mahapurusha) or the "right-hand god" (Skt. dakshinadeva). The same can be applied to the Buddha with his hair curling to the right and his body marked with thirty-two signs of auspicious birth (Skt. mahapurusha-lakshana). Early Hindus classified shells by gender, with thicker convex shells considered male or purusha and thinner, graceful shells considered female or shankhini.

The Hindu division into four castes also found its application to shells: smooth white shells corresponded to the Brahmin priestly caste, red ones to the Kshatriya warriors, yellow ones to the Vaishya merchants, and dull gray ones to the simple worker Shudras. There was another division based on the type of spiral. Common shells that twisted to the left were called vamavarta, and the rarer ones that twisted to the right were called dakshinavarta - and were considered most suitable for use in rituals. The top of the shell is sawed off to form a horn and the wind swirling in a right-handed spiral to create sound symbolizes the true (“right-hand”) proclamation of the Dharma. Brahmanism adopted the heroic conch as a ritual symbol of religious supremacy. Early Buddhists similarly adopted this symbol as an emblem of the superiority of the Buddha's teachings. Here the conch shell symbolizes fearlessness in proclaiming the truth of the Dharma and his call to awaken and work for the benefit of others. One of the thirty-two symbols of the Buddha's body is his deep and sonorous voice, reminiscent of the voice of a conch shell, which spreads to all ten directions of space. In iconography, this feature is depicted by three shell-shaped curved lines on his throat.

As one of the eight auspicious symbols, the shell is usually turned vertically, often with a ribbon running across its bottom edge. The right direction of the spiral is indicated by the bend and the entrance hole pointing to the right. The sink can also be turned horizontally, in which case there will be aromatic liquids or oils inside. As an attribute that is held in the hand and symbolizes the proclamation of the teachings of the Buddha, as one of the aspects of speech, it can usually be found in the left hand - the hand of “wisdom”.

6. Endless knot

Just as this knot has no end, so this symbol personifies the complete acquisition of the Immeasurable Virtues and the Five Types of Primordial Wisdom. A symbol of the interdependence of all phenomena and living beings in the Universe. The Sanskrit term "srivatsa" means "beloved Sri". Sri is the goddess Lakshmi, the wife of Vishnu, and srivatsa is an auspicious sign that adorns the chest of Vishnu. The distinctive feature of Lakshmi on Vishnu's chest corresponds to the fidelity of his heart to his wife, and since Lakshmi is the goddess of wealth and auspicious fortune, the srivatsa naturally becomes an auspicious symbol. This is usually either a triangular curl or an upturned diamond that closes at four opposite corners. Krishna, the eighth reincarnation of Vishnu, also has srivatsu in the center of his chest. This curl of hair has another name - nandyavarta - which means "curl of happiness", in which case its shape resembles a swastika or a Greek hook-shaped cross (gammadion).

In Indian and Chinese depictions, the Buddha often has a swastika in the center of his chest, which symbolizes his enlightened mind. Another likely variation of the swastika and endless knot comes from the S-shaped markings on the cobra's hood. This in turn gave birth to the Nagayantra, where two or more intertwined snakes form an endless knot or yantra. In its final development into the Buddhist geometric symbol of the eternal knot or "luck diagram" which "revolves like a swastika", this symbol can be related to the srivatsa swastika, as both symbols were used in early Indian traditions.

As a symbol of Buddha, the endless knot represents his infinite wisdom and compassion. As a symbol of the Buddha's teachings, it represents the continuity of the twelve links of dependent origination that underlie cyclical existence.

In one of the descriptions you can find the following words: the endless knot was given to Buddha by the god Ganesha as an ornament for his heart. Symbolizes the changing nature of time, the impermanence and interconnection of all things, as well as the unity of compassion and wisdom.

7. Victory Banner

The victory banner was presented to Buddha by the god Krishna as an ornament for his body. This cylindrical multi-tiered figure symbolizes the victory of the Buddha's teachings over ignorance and death.

The banner means victory over the enemy and obstacles, personifies victory over demons, mara and adherents of false views. A symbol of the victory of the Buddha's teachings over death, ignorance, as well as over everything harmful and destructive in this world.

The Sanskrit word dhwaja means banner, flag or emblem, and was originally a battle flag in the ancient Indian art of war. This banner adorned the back of the great warrior's chariot and was mounted behind the great or royal umbrella. Each flag bore a specific emblem of a king or warrior. Krishna's chariot, for example, was decorated with a garuda flag, and Arjuna's with a monkey flag. But most often the dhwaja was the emblem of Shiva, the great god of death and destruction, whose banner was decorated with a trident. This trident symbolized the victory of Shiva over the three worlds or “three cities” located on the earth, above the earth and below it. In the Indian art of war, the army banner often took on terrifying forms to instill fear in the enemy. This could be, for example, the head impaled on a stake and the skin of an enemy or victim flayed off. The heads and skins of ferocious animals were often used, particularly the tiger, crocodile, wolf and bull. Also on the banner were large images of other fearsome creatures such as a scorpion, a snake, a vulture, a raven and a garuda.

The crocodile-headed banner or so-called makaradhvaja was the emblem of Kamadeva, the Vedic god of love and desire. As a "tempter" or "deceiver", Kamadeva can be considered the Hindu equivalent of Mara, the "evil incarnate" who tried to prevent the Buddha from achieving enlightenment.

In early Buddhism, the image of Mara as a demonic creator of obstacles to spiritual progress was represented by a group of four maras or "evil influences". The idea of ​​these four maras was originally based on the four divisions of the army of Mara: infantry, cavalry, elephants and chariots. The first of these four maras is the demon of the five accumulations of personality (skandha mara). The second is the demon of interfering emotions (klesha mara). The third is the demon of death (mrityu mara). And the fourth Mara - “son of god” (devaputra mara) - the demon of desire and temptation. It is this fourth Mara that corresponds to Kamadeva, “the king of the gods of the highest level of the desire world.” The Buddha is believed to have transcended the veils of Kamadeva's sensual desires in the twilight before Enlightenment by meditating on the "four limitless qualities": compassion, love, sharing joy and equanimity. At dawn he overcame the Mara of accumulation and the Mara of interfering emotions. But only three months before the end of his life he managed to defeat the mara of death through the power of his fearless determination to enter the final nirvana (parinirvana). Early Buddhists adopted the crocodile-headed Kamadeva symbol as a symbol of the Buddha's victory over the four maras. Usually four such banners were installed in the main directions around the stupa of Enlightenment. In a similar way, the gods decided to plant a victory flag on the top of Mount Meru to glorify Buddha as the “victor” who defeated the armies of Mara.

This "banner of victory in ten directions" has a frame of precious stone, a crown with a moon and a sun, and a hanging triple flag of three multi-colored silks, decorated with "three victorious harmonious beings." In the Tibetan tradition, eleven variations of the victory banner correspond to eleven specific methods for transcending veils. Many variants of the banner are found on the roofs of temples and monasteries: four flags are usually placed at the corners of the roof, symbolizing the victory of the Buddha over the four maras.

The most traditional type of banner is a cylindrical banner on a long wooden pole. The top of the banner follows the shape of a small white umbrella, and on top of it is a wish-granting jewel. This domed umbrella is edged with an ornate golden cross with makara tails at the ends from which hang waves of yellow or white silk scarf. The cylindrical base of the banner is draped with several vertical layers of multi-colored silk folds and pendants of precious stones. The base is decorated with a wavy silk apron with flowing ribbons. The upper part is decorated with a tiger skin rim, symbolizing the victory of Buddha over anger and aggression. Many aspects hold the banner of victory, particularly those related to wealth and power. For example, Vaishravana, the great King and protector of the North.

8. Wheel of Dharma

> The golden wheel of teaching with a thousand spokes was given to Buddha by Brahma as an ornament for his feet. It became known as the Wheel of Dharma. Its rotation symbolizes the preaching of the Buddha's Teachings, bringing liberation to all living beings.

This is the wheel of Chakravartin, the Lord of the world, just as it is the means of his transportation, with eight sharp spokes that cut through obstacles on the way, so this symbol personifies the means of advancement towards Enlightenment. The spoke means Wisdom, experience, concentration, the axis means morality. Also three types of Higher Education, Three Baskets of Teaching. The eight spokes signify the Eightfold Path.

The eight spokes of the wheel symbolize the “noble eightfold path” of Buddha Shakyamuni:

1. Correct view.
2. Correct thinking.
3. Correct speech.
4. Correct behavior.
5. The right way of life.
6. The right effort.
7. Correct awareness.
8. Correct contemplation.

The wheel is an early Indian solar symbol of supremacy, protection and creation. The earliest finds with this symbol date back to the 25th century. BC. The wheel or chakra is the main attribute of the Vedic god of protection Vishnu, his fierce wheels or discs with six spokes (sudarshana chakra) symbolize the wheel of the manifested universe. The wheel represents movement, duration and change, turning constantly, like the revolving ball of heaven. As a weapon, the rimless chakra had six, eight, twelve or eighteen sharply sharpened blades. It could be thrown like a discus or swung on a rope.

Buddhism adopted the wheel as the main symbol of the "wheel-turner" Chakravartin, but the wheel itself became the "wheel of dharma" dharmachakra (Tib. chokyi korlo), which literally means "wheel of transformation" or spiritual change. The rapid movement of the wheel corresponds to the rapid spiritual transformation that the Buddha's teaching reveals. The juxtaposition of the Buddha's wheel and the rotating tool of Chakravartin corresponds to the teaching's ability to cut off all obstacles and illusions.

The Buddha's first teaching at the Deer Park in Sarnath, where he taught the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, is known as the "first turning of the wheel of Dharma." His subsequent famous teachings in Rajgir and Shravasti are known as the second and third turning of the wheel of Dharma. The three components of the wheel - hub, spokes and rim - correspond to the three aspects of Buddhist teachings on moral discipline (vinaya), wisdom (abidharma) and concentration (sutra). The central hub represents moral discipline, which centers and stabilizes the mind. The sharp spokes represent wisdom or discriminating awareness that cuts away ignorance.

The rim corresponds to the meditative concentration that makes possible and carries out the movement of the wheel. The wheel with eight spokes symbolizes the Noble Eightfold Path and the spread of these teachings in the eight directions. The wheel, as an auspicious symbol, is described as being made of pure gold. This gold is mined in the Jambud River of our continent - Jambudvipa. Traditionally, the wheel is depicted with eight vajra-like spokes and a central hub with three or four “swirls of joy” that unwind outward like the Chinese yin-yang symbol. If there are three curls in the central hub, then they correspond to the Three Jewels - Buddha, Dharma, Sangha, as well as victory over the three poisons of the mind - ignorance, desire and anger.

When the four curls are depicted, they are usually painted in different colors, corresponding to the four directions and elements, and also symbolize the Buddha's teachings on the Four Noble Truths. The rim of the wheel may be depicted as a simple round ring, often with small round gold decorations projecting in eight directions. Sometimes he is depicted inside an ornate pear-shaped enclosure made of gold and precious stones. A silk ribbon often drapes the rim of the wheel, and the bottom usually rests on a small lotus flower.