Symbolism in Hinduism

Yan Rajhans, Canada


shape of OM represents both the unmanifest and the manifest.

Swastika

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A symbol is a conventional sign employed to convey a meaning. In various religions God is depicted by various symbols. The use of symbols greatly helps us to understand the Infinite Almighty God. One needs a clear, unbiased mind to comprehend the truth behind symbols. An organized study of symbols takes us to another concept, that of Symbolism. Symbolism is the representation of something moral or spiritual by something natural or material.

In Hinduism, the symbols have been used from time immemorial. Most of the symbols of Hinduism are derived from the Vedas. Symbolism is an important way in Hinduism for realization of divine knowledge. But, the science of symbolism has not been laid down, principle-wise, openly in any of the Hindu scriptures. It has to be patiently, devotedly and humbly studied. The degree and the manner in which this science has been imparted and understood have varied according to the capacity of those who have received it. There are many opinions about and explanations of such symbols. Even famous idols and images vary on the point of detail. In this article I will attempt to give you the detailed meanings of three major symbols used in Hinduism.

Om or Aum Om or Aum is of paramount importance in Hinduism. In my article on The Gayatri Mantra published on www.hinduism.com I have given the detailed explanation as to why this syllable represents Brahman, both the unmanifest and manifest aspects of God and why it is called Pranav, which means that it pervades life through our Prana or breath.
In this article I am providing the scientific significance of its geometrical shape. As seen above the symbol of Om or Aum consists of three

The Poorna Kumbha

Prarthana Samaj of Toronto Hindu Ratna by Hindu Federation of Toronto. He received Canadian Journalists' and Writers' Club (CEJWC) award for 2005 in the Internet category - Opinion - for his

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Poorna Kumbha literally means a 'full pitcher' (Sanskrit: 'poorna' = full, 'kumbha' = pot). The Poorna Kumbha, as you can see above, is decorated with the design of swastika and filled with water, and with fresh mango or betel leaves and a coconut atop it. It is generally placed as the chief deity or by the side of the deity before starting a Puja (Hindu worship). The pot symbolizes mother earth, the water symbolizes life-giver, the leaves symbolize life and the coconut symbolizes divine consciousness. Commonly used during almost all religious rites, the pitcher with swastika on it also stands for auspiciousness and harbinger of good fortune.
The above three are universal symbols widely used in Hinduism. In addition, each Hindu God and Goddess has many characteristics, like dress, 'vehicle', weapons, etc., that are themselves symbols of the deity's power. For example, Brahma holds the Vedas in his hands, which signifies that he has the supreme command over creative and religious knowledge. Vishnu holds a conch which stands for the five elements and eternity; a discus, which is the symbol of the mind; a bow that symbolizes power and a lotus which is the symbol of the cosmos. Shiva's trident represents the three gunas (qualities inherent in human beings). Similarly Krishna's flute symbolizes divine music.

To sum up, a symbol in Hinduism is the objective representation of a subjective idea.

About Author: Gyan Rajhans, an internationally recognized heath & safety professional has been broadcasting the only non-commercial Vedic religion radio program in North America since 1981 & worldwide web cast on www.bhajanawali.com since 1999. Mr. Rajhans has published extensively on religious and spiritual matters. Some articles are available on the Bhajanawali web site. He has translated Sri Mad Bhagvad Gita in English for the younger generation. Mr. Rajhans has been conferred various titles, including that of Rishi by Hindu
Spirituality columns in South Asian Outlook e-Monthly.


 

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