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Ashtamangala or Eight Auspicious symbols in Hinduism

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The Ashtamangala, or Eight Auspicious Symbols, hold significant spiritual and symbolic meanings in Hinduism. Each symbol is believed to represent aspects of auspiciousness, prosperity, and spiritual realization. These eight symbols are associated with good fortune in Hinduism. Let's explore each of these symbols in more detail:

The eight symbols are –
  1. Parasol – A handheld collapsible sunshade.
  2. A pair of golden fish.
  3. A treasure vase.
  4. Lotus
  5. Right turning conch
  6. Srivatsa (endless knot)
  7. Banner of victory
  8. Wheel of Dharma.
These symbols were associated with royalty and were present during the coronation of a king.

Parasol (Chattra): The parasol represents protection and spiritual authority. In ancient times, it was a symbol of royalty and protection from harmful influences. Metaphorically, it signifies the protection of the teachings of the Buddha or the divine protection of devotees.

Pair of Golden Fish (Sankha): The pair of golden fish symbolizes fertility, abundance, and liberation. Fish are considered auspicious in Hindu culture, and they represent freedom from the cycle of birth and rebirth (samsara) as they move freely in water.

Treasure Vase (Kalasha): The treasure vase symbolizes wealth, abundance, and prosperity. It represents the inexhaustible treasures of spiritual wealth, including virtues, merits, and wisdom. The vase is often depicted overflowing with jewels, symbolizing the abundance of spiritual blessings.

Lotus (Padma): The lotus symbolizes purity, enlightenment, and spiritual growth. Despite growing in muddy waters, the lotus rises above the muck and blooms beautifully, representing the journey from darkness to light and the attainment of enlightenment.

Right-Turning Conch Shell (Shankha): The right-turning conch shell represents the sacred sound of the universe, symbolizing the cosmic sound of creation (Om). It is also associated with victory, auspiciousness, and the spreading of the teachings of dharma.

Srivatsa (Endless Knot): Srivatsa, also known as the endless knot, is a symbol of infinity, interconnectedness, and the endless cycle of life. It represents the intertwining of wisdom and compassion, as well as the interconnectedness of all phenomena in the universe.

Victory Banner (Dhvaja): The victory banner symbolizes triumph over obstacles, negativity, and ignorance. It represents the victory of wisdom (jnana) over ignorance (avidya) and the triumph of enlightenment over the darkness of delusion.

Wheel of Dharma (Dharmachakra): The wheel of dharma symbolizes the teachings of the Buddha and the path to enlightenment. It represents the cycle of existence, the eternal nature of the dharma, and the continuous unfolding of spiritual truths.

These Ashtamangala symbols are often used in rituals, ceremonies, and religious art to invoke blessings, protection, and prosperity. They serve as reminders of spiritual principles and guide practitioners on the path towards spiritual realization and liberation.