Hindu Symbols (Including emblems and sacred objects)

Email

Whatsapp

Facebook

Pinterest

Twitter

Copy link

Introduction

The fundamental concepts of any field of knowledge which form the basis of its complicated superstructure are essentially abstract. Unless these abstract principles are made concrete by following the principle of 'From the seen to the unseen,' 'From the known to the unknown,' they cannot be comprehended. Herein lies the necessity and utility of symbols. We can easily illustrate this by turning to the field of geometry. After defining a point or a straight line, the teacher of geometry proceeds to represent the same on the blackboard, with the words 'let "A" be a point' (A.), 'let "AB" be a straight line' (A-B). he has got to use the word 'let' for the simple reason that the ideal point (which has neither length nor width) or the ideal straight line (which has only length and no width) can never be represented on the blackboard. The point or the straight line figured there is at best symbolical. Yet, an entire science of geometry is built on this 'let' and a huge building or a bridge is the practical outcome of this science! In fact, life is impossible without the use of symbols. Even language is a symbol.

If the use of symbols is thus inevitable in secular science, it is absolutely necessary in religion. Since religion deals with such topics as God, man, creation, man's ultimate destiny, problems of good and evil, which are highly abstract and inscrutable, it is impossible to bring them within the reach of one's understanding without the use of appropriate symbols, emblems and imagery. However, once the central idea suggested by the symbol is comprehended, it will act as a source of inspiration giving a fillip to spiritual progress.

In this brochure, a brief description of the symbols, emblems and sacred objects, generally used in Hindu religion and culture, have been described.

It is earnestly hoped that this will enlighten the Hindu to some extent at least and whet their intellectual and spiritual appetite to know more and be benefited by it.

Contents:

    To the Reader      Key to Translation and Pronunciation  1.  Pranava (OM or AUM)  2.  Sivalinga  3.  Sricakra  4.  Urdhvapundra  5.  Tiryakpundra (with bhasma)  6.  Other Symbols        Asvattha        Bilva Leaf        Bull or Nandi        Cow        Elephant        Kumbha or Kalasa        Lotus        Moon        Salagrama        Snake        Sun        Svastika        Tulasi

Of Related Interest:

Sacred Hindu Symbols

Sacred Symbols of Hinduism

Symbols of Art, Religion and Philosophy

Principal Symbols of World Religions

Online Articles Explaining Symbolism