Encyclopedia of Buddhist Symbols. Tibetan amulets and their meaning - the magic of ancient symbols. symbols of auspicious omen

There is a legend that when the Divine Sage of the Shakya family achieved Perfect Enlightenment, he was presented with eight auspicious symbols (Sanskrit 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. Images of the Eight Auspicious Symbols are often found in Buddhist monasteries; many believers keep them in their homes as symbols of well-being and prosperity.

The Eight Auspicious Symbols are very ancient and are also found in Hinduism and Jainism.

In the northern tradition of Buddhism, the symbolic transmission of the Teachings has developed. What is the meaning of Buddhist symbols? Without understanding their meaning, symbols become mere decorations, pretty pictures and trinkets. Let us consider the meanings of the Eight Auspicious Symbols and reflect on their meaning.

Golden fish

Two goldfish are 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 (Sanskrit suvarṇa matsya, Tib. gser nya, lit. golden fish) 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. Why two fish? Isn't this a hint that in spiritual practice it is important for us not only to accumulate merit through virtuous actions of body, speech and thoughts, but also to develop wisdom?

There are other interpretations. Golden fish are two rivers of India: the sacred Ganges and the Yamuna, its longest and deepest tributary. This is the pre-Buddhist interpretation of the ancient symbols. In ancient symbolism, these rivers merging into one personified the right and left channels in the subtle body of a person.

In an ancient text called the Aryamangalakutanama Mahayana Sutra, the Buddha's eyes are figuratively compared to two goldfish.

Sink

A white shell with a spiral twisting to the right is the news of Buddha’s Enlightenment, as well as good news to all beings about the opportunity for everyone to realize Buddha nature. The shell (Sanskrit śaṅkha, Tib. dung – lit. shell; Tib. dung dkar g.yas "khyil, dung dkar g.yas su "khyil ri can – lit. white shell with a spiral twisted to the right) in ancient times was a musical wind instrument instrument, so it is natural that it symbolizes sound.

In nature, shells with a left-handed spiral are often found, so rare shells with a right-handed spiral were associated in people’s minds with special features, and they were considered sacred. The direction of twisting of their spiral was associated with the direction of movement of the celestial bodies across the sky: the sun, moon, planets and stars.

Just as the sound of a conch shell spreads in all directions, so the Teachings of the Buddha spread everywhere, causing sentient beings to awaken from the sleep of ignorance. However, some creatures perceive the meaning in these sounds, while others, due to their obscurations, do not understand anything.

Precious vessel

A precious vessel (Sanskrit nidhānakumbha, Tib. gter gyi bum pa, lit. jar of treasure) 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 (Sanskrit cintamani). There are two interpretations regarding the contents of the vessel. The first is the nectar of immortality inside. Let us remember that on the thangkas both Buddha Amitayus and Mandarava, a disciple of Padmasambhava, who realized the level of vidyadhara of immortality with Guru Rinpoche, hold such a vessel with the elixir of immortality. (“They acquired the siddhis of vidyadhara of eternal life, so that they became immune to aging and death.” From the biography of Mandarava.) However, the Teachings of the Buddha tell us: nothing is eternal in the Three Worlds, only our original nature is eternal - a state beyond birth and death. By practicing long life, the practitioner can remove obstacles to life and prolong life. Such an obstacle may be a lack of vital energy. Extending life acquires special value if a person practices to achieve Liberation, accumulates merit and wisdom, improves in holy love and compassion, and is therefore needed by many living beings.

In an esoteric sense, the nectar of immortality means continuity of consciousness. Gaining continuity of consciousness will allow you to transfer the knowledge and experience of this life into your next life without distortion. You will be able to experience from your own experience what the nectar of immortality flowing from above is when you reach the stage of pleasure from the process of joy-pleasure-silence-lightness. Thanks to the nectar of immortality, consciousness becomes clear and continuous.

According to another interpretation, a precious vessel is a vessel filled with jewels. No matter how many of them are taken from the vessel, the precious vessel is not emptied. 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
The lotus flower (Skt. padma; Tib. pad ma, lit. lotus) is 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. However, such a lotus is called “pundarika” in Sanskrit, and the word “padma” means a pink lotus. The pink lotus symbolizes the Savior, and therefore the Buddha himself.

The lotus roots go into the mud, its stem passes through the water, and the lotus petals rise above the water, they are clean and open to the sun. The consciousness of a saint is free from impurities; the three root poisons cannot poison the mind of an enlightened one, just as muddy water cannot stay on the pure petals of a lotus.

Wheel of Dharma

The golden wheel (Sanskrit cakra; Tib. "khor lo, lit. 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. The Buddha's first sermon after achieving his Perfect Awakening was called "The First Turning of the Wheel of Dharma." The Four Noble Truths were explained by the Buddha in three cycles, or revolutions of the Wheel of the Law.

Victory Banner

The Banner of Victory (Sanskrit dhvaja, Tib. rgyal mtshan) symbolizes the victory of Dharma over ignorance, and at the same time the overcoming of the obstacles of Mara. The banner is installed on the top of Mount Meru (Sumeru).

Sumeru, or the universal Mountain of Perfection, is believed to be indestructible as long as our Universe exists, including the World of Passion and the Heaven of Brahma. The Victory Banner is installed on the top of Mount Meru - isn't this a symbol that the Teachings of the Buddha cannot be destroyed, since it is the Law of the Universe?

Endless knot

The endless knot (Sanskrit śrīvatsa (?), Tib. dpal be"u) has several interpretations. Some interpret it as a representation of the endless cycle of existence, others as a symbol of eternity, others as a sign of the inexhaustibility of the Buddha’s knowledge. It is also a symbol of interdependence of all phenomena in the Universe. This is also the complex relationship between wisdom and compassion in the process of achieving Buddhahood. Here we can add that to achieve Buddhahood it is necessary to follow the infinitely long path of the Mahayana. The path of a bodhisattva is immeasurably long, it is not limited to a few kalpas.

There is also an assumption that the endless knot is a reflection of an older symbol consisting of two intertwined snakes. The snake is a very ancient symbol of kundalini, possibly coming to India from Ancient Egypt. It is likely that the intertwining snakes symbolized the movement of kundalini along the right and left channels of the subtle body, and then the endless knot is related to the chandali.

Umbrella

The precious umbrella (Sanskrit chattra, Tib. gdugs - lit. sun umbrella, Tib. gdugs mchog - lit. precious umbrella, supreme umbrella) is a symbol of protection from obstacles that bodhisattvas and buddhas give us while we walk the path of Enlightenment to our attainment of Buddha nature.

In India, the sun umbrella has traditionally been a symbol of protection as well as royal majesty. Since the umbrella is held above the head, it naturally symbolizes honor and respect. Secular rulers had umbrellas made of peacock feathers. In religious consciousness, protection from bad weather was associated with protection from pollution, vices and passions that impede spiritual development. Just as an ordinary umbrella protects us from rain or the scorching rays of the sun, so a precious umbrella protects us from obstacles on the path to Awakening.

In the Tibetan version, the shape of the umbrella was borrowed from the Indian and Chinese prototypes of the sun umbrella. It consisted of a wooden frame with spokes and a silk dome, along the edges of which there was a frill or fringe. The wooden handle of the umbrella was painted gold or red, the silk was white, yellow, red or multi-colored. In Tibet, an umbrella indicated the status of its owner: the umbrella was considered both a symbol of secular power (an umbrella made of peacock feathers) and a symbol of spiritual power. It is said that Master Atisha was so revered that he was accompanied by thirteen umbrellas.

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 form conical stupa spiers that mark major events in the life of the Buddha 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 ornament. 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 who sincerely practice 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 shell 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.

(Data based on lectures given by Marianne van der Horst to students during retreats)

Each element depicted on the tank has a deep meaning. The color, location of the legs, arms, even fingers are important - for example, each of the fingers symbolizes one of the five elements. The dynamism of the pose on the left side of the figure emphasizes the activity of feminine energy, on the right - masculine. Each symbol carries a specific message. If you learn this language, you will no longer need words, texts or thick books. You will be able to look at a thangka and understand everything that is meant there.

Throne of Shakyamuni Buddha

The Buddha's throne emphasizes the importance of his person. The throne has seven levels and is built according to certain proportions. The lower base rises in steps to an upper square (or hexagonal) base, decorated with ornaments, supported by four snow leopards, symbolizing fearlessness on the path of enlightenment (other Buddhas may have other animals - peacocks, horses, etc.). On top of the base is covered with a richly decorated fabric, where a large image of the wheel of Dharma or other symbols is often embroidered in gold; above is a lotus with solar and lunar disks. Sometimes the throne has a back decorated with ornaments. The backrest can be supported (surrounded) by various figures. At the top of the back there is a garuda (symbolizing the perfection of free giving), on the sides there are water spirits - nagas (symbolizing ethical behavior, the perfection of morality). Next, there are two symmetrical makaras (paramita of patience); two figures of boys or dwarfs (paramita of zeal), riding creatures like unicorns; two lions (knowledge, wisdom); two elephants (concentration).

Patra (bowl)

In his left hand, Buddha Shakyamuni holds a patra - a monastic alms bowl. It is dark blue in color and decorated with gold ornaments, emphasizing its volume. Buddha Shakyamuni has a cup filled with three types of nectar: ​​1) medicinal, healing our body and mind; 2) the nectar of immortality, giving infinitely long life; 3) nectar of pure wisdom and unclouded consciousness - to overcome mental problems and obscurations. A slightly different interpretation says that Shakyamuni Buddha, having defeated three demons, turned their three poisons into three types of nectar: ​​1) defeated the demon of destruction, chaos; 2) defeated the demon of death; 3) defeated the demon of mental pollution. The three nectars symbolize the methods given by the Buddha to overcome obstacles on the path to enlightenment. In the images above, the nectar in the bowl is white.

Wheel of Teaching

The Wheel of Teaching (Sanskrit: dharmachakra) symbolizes the noble eightfold path indicated by Shakyamuni Buddha, leading to the vision of emptiness and enlightenment. These are: 1) right view, 2) right thinking, 3) right speech, 4) right conduct, 5) right living, 6) right effort, 7) right awareness, 8) right contemplation.

Arhat Staff

The Arhats were the first disciples of Buddha Shakyamuni, the most famous are 16 of them, they were authorized by the Buddha himself to preserve the Teaching after his departure. When the power of the Teaching has dried up, the arhats will all gather together and, with magical power, erect a precious stupa containing all the earthly remains of Buddha Shakyamuni, after which they will pay all rituals of respect to it. It is said that after this they will go into nirvana, their bodies will dissolve without a trace, and the stupa will sink into the ground and the Teachings of the Blessed One will disappear forever from the world of people... The two closest disciples, Shariputra and Maudgalyana, are often depicted to the left and right of Shakyamuni Buddha, each holding a staff and a begging bowl in his hands. They say that the Buddha himself showed the arhats how to handle the staff: it should be placed straight, when entering the house, knock the staff three times, it is not allowed to carry the staff on the shoulder, etc. You can use a staff to protect yourself from animals and snakes (25 instructions about the staff). Loden Sherab Dagyab Rinpoche writes that the length of the staff is 1.8 m, the upper and lower parts are made of metal, the middle part is wooden. At the top there are two small stupas, then four arches protrude, each with three rings strung on it. The three parts of the staff symbolize the three ways of birth; four protrusions - the four cardinal directions and the four Noble Truths; two stupas - dharmakaya and rupakaya; 12 rings - 12 links of interdependent origin. There are also thick knots on the staff that remind the monks of their vows.

Bow and arrow

The bow symbolizes bodhichitta, love and compassion, manifested actively. The arrow symbolizes wisdom. Together they form a perfect union of method and wisdom (end and means) that allows the arrow to hit its target accurately. A bow and arrow are depicted in the hands of Ushnishavijaya, Chenrezi, Kurukulle, Guhyasamaja, etc. One arrow with ribbons of five colors tied to the handle can be an attribute of a deity who bestows health and longevity (for example, in the hand of the dakini Mandarava).

Symbols of happiness, offerings

Eight auspicious symbols

These eight lucky symbols are very ancient and are found in Hinduism, Jayanism, Buddhism: 1) umbrella, 2) fish, 3) vase, 4) lotus, 5) shell, 6) endless knot, 7) victory banner, 8) wheel.
The umbrella is so big that five people can fit under it. Sewn from white, yellow, red or multi-colored silk, the umbrella has a frill or fringe, a gold top, and a wooden handle - gold or red. Practical value - protection from the sun. An umbrella indicates the status of its owner, it is a symbol of the power of the king. It is said that Master Atisha was so revered that he was accompanied by 13 umbrellas. In Tibet, noble persons must be covered with umbrellas, less important ones can be covered with an umbrella made of peacock feathers. Those. an umbrella is a sign of spiritual power.
Goldfish symbolize two great rivers: the Ganges and the Yamuna(?).
A precious vase is a golden, round-shaped vessel with a thin neck and a widening mouth. There is a jewel on top of the vase lid. The vase symbolizes the inexhaustibility of material wealth, prosperity; on a spiritual level implies limitless possibilities. This is a sign of the fulfillment of spiritual and material desires. For some deities it is an attribute - a symbol of wealth and prosperity.
Lotus is a symbol of purity and divine birth.
The conch is a large, rare sea shell with a pointed end that curls to the right (clockwise). In Hinduism, it symbolizes femininity. The shell can be used as a vessel (to contain saffron water or nectar) or as a musical instrument. The shell can be an element of the ornament of a throne or stupa.
In this context, the conch shell means the glory of the Buddha's Teaching (like the sound of a conch shell, the Teaching can spread in all ten directions).
The endless knot is a symbol of eternity, the infinity of Buddha's knowledge. The outline of the knot, without the loops, represents a swastika. In Hinduism, the knot symbolizes the nagas - these are two snakes woven together. The knot has a deep meaning, showing how to approach life: everything is interconnected, depends on reasons and circumstances. In the knot pattern there is both action (movement) and completion (rest), harmony between the giver and the taker, etc. Knots can be simple or more complex.
Victory banner - symbolizes victory over ignorance and obstacles to happiness. It has a wooden handle, to which three rows of frills are attached in a circle.
The wheel is a symbol of weapons, the sun, and cyclicality in Hinduism. The wheel has an axle - a symbol of the world axis, and spokes - 4, 6, 8, 32 or 1000 spokes. The axle and spokes, without a rim, represent an ancient method of protection. The axis also symbolizes morality, and the spokes symbolize concentration. The wheel is stable and mobile at the same time, which means the completeness of the Buddha's Teachings and the potential for its spread.

Eight symbols that bring good luck

They are offered to Buddha or depicted on tanks - the whole group or partly. These are: 1) mirror, 2) medicine, 3) yogurt, 4) durva grass, 5) bilva fruit, 6) conch shell, 7) sindhur powder, 8) mustard seeds.
Mirror (Tib.: melong) - symbolizes our consciousness. A mirror is capable of reflecting absolutely everything, perceiving any form, without choosing or evaluating.
Medicinal pills (Tib.: chevang) are yellow nodules, they are poured into a vase. These are gallstones, which are taken from bulls and yaks, have a healing effect and are used in Tibetan medicine (as an antidote for poisoning, to clarify thoughts, relieve nervousness and reduce fever). The pills symbolize cleansing of mental impurities.
Yogurt represents the “essence of all substances”, a component of a healthy lifestyle. It neutralizes defilements and hindrances, promoting higher achievements and exit from samsara. Once upon a time, a bowl of yogurt was offered to Buddha and helped restore his strength after a long asceticism.
Durva grass has extraordinary vitality: it can be completely dried for hundreds of years, but immediately comes to life in water. Durva grass represents the endless cycle of birth and death. It is a symbol of immortality, just like the image of Vajrasattva (he represents absolute bodhichitta).
Bilva is one of the most common plants in India and its fruits are very popular. These fruits are believed to increase positive actions and symbolize enlightenment. This fruit is extremely pure, and when someone offers it, it serves as a reminder of the goal that can be achieved.
The shell is a large right-handed shell that enhances all the best qualities. Symbolizes the spread of the Teaching, similar to the spread of sound. It is said that the radiance of this shell is incomparable to any other offering.
Sindhoor powder is cinnabar. Rich mineral paint of orange-red color symbolizes power, activity, but without suppressing others (realization of potential based on knowledge and wisdom).
Mustard seeds are an angry substance and are a symbol of the activity of Buddhas. Used in rituals, for example to remove demons or other obstacles.

Treasures of Chakravartin

In Indian mythology, chakravartin is the ruler of the world. The Chakravartin ruler owns three sets of seven objects endowed with extraordinary qualities. These seven symbols are designations of the qualities that a person develops in himself.
. The seven extremely precious objects of Chakravartin are: 1) precious wheel, 2) wish-granting jewel, 3) precious queen, 4) precious minister, 5) precious general, 6) precious elephant, 7) precious horse. Sometimes an eighth image is added - the chakravartin himself.
1. The golden precious wheel is five hundred yojanas in diameter and has a thousand spokes. Thanks to this wheel you can go anywhere, even to the world of the gods. This wheel eliminates enemies.
2. The wish-fulfilling jewel is a stone with eight sides, at night it illuminates everything around, and during the day it gives wonderful water with eight qualities. This gemstone eliminates diseases and fulfills all desires. The stone bestows special insight on the mind to its owner.
3. Precious Queen - distinguished by beauty and virtue, loved by everyone around her, contributes to the well-being of the entire kingdom. He gives birth to sons to the ruler and never indulges in the pleasures of the senses.
4. Precious Minister - allows the abilities of the chakravartin to manifest themselves in all their brilliance. Skilled in everything, has many virtues.
5. Precious General - has the ability to eliminate enemies and overcome obstacles without oppressing anyone.
6. Precious elephant - smart, strong and obedient, does what the ruler wants. In one day he is able to circumnavigate Jambudvipa (the country ruled by chakravartin) three times and can move by land, water and air. Defeats enemies.
7. The precious horse is blue-green in color, it is a wind horse, agile and fast. His qualities are like those of an elephant. Not susceptible to disease.
. Seven semi-precious objects: 1) a sword that punishes lawbreakers; 2) the skin of a panther or naga(?), which can serve as a tent for travel; 3) a wonderful palace where goddesses play musical instruments and from where you can see the moon, constellations and whatever you want; 4) clothing that is not damaged by any weapon and in which it is neither cold nor hot; 5) a garden with a swimming pool, full of birds and all sorts of wonders; 6) a seat conducive to contemplation; 7) shoes in which you can walk on water and move very quickly.
. Seven valuable items: 1) the king's earrings, round; 2) queen earrings, square; 3) unicorn horn; 4) elephant tusks; 5) crossed jewels that cannot be separated; 6) triple jewel; 7) coral with eight branches. These jewels are depicted on tanks - the entire group or part of it.

Six signs of long life

Include the following images: 1) mountain, 2) water, 3) tree, 4) an old man with a long beard, 5) birds of long life like cranes, 6) antelope. This is offered as an offering to distinguished guests (lama, meditative deities, protectors, dakinis, etc.). There are separate tanks called “White Elder”, which include the same elements: an old tree, weighed down with fruits, which stands near the water, with a rock nearby. An old man sits under a tree. Nearby there is an antelope - a symbol of long life and birds. Birds are called “twice-born”; they achieved immortality by tasting the nectar from this tree.

Offerings of the Five Senses

These are offerings of the five kinds of human sensations, literally meaning “the five qualities gained through experience,” or the five senses. These are: 1) mirror - vision, 2) musical instruments - hearing, 3) incense - smell, 4) silk fabric - touch, 5) fruit - taste. Flowers (smell and touch) and a shell can also be depicted here - if empty, then as a musical instrument, if filled with water or nectar, then as an offering to the organ of taste. These offerings can be beautifully arranged and depicted below, or they can be held in the hands of celestial dancers, dakinis.

Eight offerings displayed on the altar

These offerings demonstrate devotion to sacred objects. These are: 1) a bowl of water for drinking, 2) a bowl of water for ablution, 3) flowers, 4) incense, 5) a lamp, 6) cake-like cakes, 7) food, 8) music. The music is invisible and not indicated on the altar, so seven cups are actually offered.

Four harmonious brothers

On the tanks there is an image of a group of animals: a dove (partridge or other bird) stands on the back of a rabbit, which stands on the back of a monkey, which, in turn, stands on the back of an elephant. This image illustrates the idea that joint action represents a great force that can destroy even the walls of a fortress.

Symbols of “victory in the struggle for harmony”

On the tanks there are combinations of six animals, connected in pairs: 1) a hybrid of a lion and a garuda, 2) a beaver with the head of a fish, 3) a crocodile with a shell (makara).

Precious eggs

Dharmapala (protector) Vaishravana or Kubera (deity of wealth) is holding a brownish animal - a mongoose - in his left hand. This mythical creature spits out precious eggs. Such oval-shaped jewels are often depicted on tanks; they are placed randomly in groups of three or more. The colors alternate in a row: green, red, blue, orange, etc. Thus, the artist symbolizes the offering of his work to the Buddhas.

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 the feeling 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.

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. This 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. 4-5 grades//Textbook for general education institutions. M., 2010.