Eight auspicious symbols

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The Eight Auspicious Symbols (Tib. bkra shis rtags bryad) are:


The Most Precious Parasol

  • sitātapatra - white umbrella

Protects from suffering, destructive emotions, illness, harm and obstacles.

The Auspicious Golden Fishes

  • kanaka-matsya - golden fish

They stand for fearlessness, freedom and liberation, as well as happiness, fertility and abundance.

The Wish-fulfilling Vase of Treasure,

  • nidhi-ghaṭa - flask of treasure

An inexhaustible source of long life, wealth, and prosperity, which fulfils all one’s spiritual and material wishes.

The Exquisite Lotus Blossom

  • padma-kuñjara - lotus flower

Stands for purity of mind and heart, and transformation, as well as compassion, and all perfect qualities.

The Conch Shell of Far Renown

  • śaṅkha-varta - conch turning to right

Symbolizes the far-reaching melodious sound of the spiritual teachings.

The Glorious Endless Knot

  • śrī-vatsya - coiled knot

The sign of interdependence, of how everything in the universe is interconnected.

The Ever-Flying Banner of Victory

  • kunda-dhvaja - banner of victory

Means victory over all disagreement, disharmony or obstacles, and the attainment of happiness, both temporary and ultimate.

The All-powerful Wheel

  • suvarṅa-cakra - golden wheel

Symbolizes the teaching of Buddha, and is the source of spiritual values, wealth, love and liberation.