Time spent laughing is time spent with the Gods. - Japanese Proverb

Symbolism in Hinduism

Gyan Rajhans P. Eng. 

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  I have given you 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 curves, one semicircle and a dot. 

The large lower curve (1) symbolizes the waking state, in this state the consciousness is turned outwards through the gates of the senses. Its larger size signifies that this is the most common ('majority') state of the human consciousness. 

The upper curve (2) denotes the state of deep sleep or the unconscious state. This is a state where the sleeper desires nothing nor beholds any dream.

The middle curve (3) signifies the dream state. In this state the consciousness of the individual is turned inwards and that is the reason for this curve shown pointing towards the other two curves.

These are the three states of an individual's consciousness, and since Hindu mystic thought believes the entire manifested reality to spring from this consciousness, these three curves therefore represent the entire physical phenomenon.

The dot (4) signifies the fourth state of consciousness, known in Sanskrit as turiya. In this state the consciousness looks neither outwards nor inwards, nor the two together. It signifies the coming to rest of all differentiated and relative existence. This utterly quiet, peaceful and blissful state is the ultimate aim of all spiritual activity. This Absolute (non-relative) state illuminates the other three states.  

Finally, the semi circle (5) symbolizes maya (cosmic illusion) and separates the dot from the other three curves. Thus it is the illusion of maya that prevents us from the realization of this highest state of bliss.

The semi circle is open at the top, and when ideally drawn does not touch the dot. This means that this highest state is not affected by maya. Maya only affects the manifested phenomenon. This effect is that of preventing the seeker from reaching his ultimate goal, the realization of the One, all-pervading, unmanifest, Absolute principle. In this manner, the geometric shape of OM represents both the unmanifest and the manifest.

Swastika

It is a symbol of a symbol of auspicious knowledge. The term swastika emanates from the Sanskrit word swasti = su (good) + asti (being).     

As you can see above, swastika is a line-design invented by the Vedic sages. Its specific geometry is believed to have some relation with certain natural energy fields. It is drawn as a cross with equal arms when all the arms are continued as far again at right angles clockwise.  

The sublime effects, in terms of the cosmic energy currents superimposed in the unique pattern of swastika, correspond to what the swastika symbolizes -- auspiciousness, well-being. The clockwise direction is of significant importance, as it also happens to be the direction of movement (as we see it on the earth) of the sun, which rises in the east and sets in the west. The four sides of the swastika thus represent the four principal directions.  

The symbol of swastika is being used as a holy sign in India since the time of yore. Scriptural descriptions define it as a divine symbol that encompasses (in coded form) several important meanings and mysterious formulae or signs representing specific energy cycles in the universe. In some scriptures, four divine powers governing the physical system of Nature are said to be subtly present around its four sides. Scholars of Vedic literature also interpret the swastika symbol as the coded design of the electro-magnetic / magnetic energy fields around the solar system's nucleus.  

The Poorna Kumbha

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 (see my article on Significance of  Ma Lakshmi’s Symbols ).  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.

[Gyan Rajhans, an internationally recognized health & 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 Prarthana Samaj of Toronto Hindu Ratna by Hindu Federation of Toronto. He received an award  for 2005 in the Internet category - Opinion - for his Spirituality columns in South Asian Outlook e-Monthly, from  Canadian Journalists' and Writers' Club (CEJWC), now re-named as Canadian Ethnic Media Association.]

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