Eight auspicious symbols

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


The Most Precious Parasol

  • sitātapatra - white umbrella (Wyl. gdugs)

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

The Auspicious Golden Fishes

  • kanaka-matsya - golden fish (Wyl. gser nya)

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 (Wyl. bum pa)

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 (Wyl. pad ma))

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 (Wyl. dung dkar g.yas 'khyil)

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

The Glorious Endless Knot

  • śrī-vatsya - coiled knot (Wyl. dpal be'u)

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

The Ever-Flying Banner of Victory

  • kunda-dhvaja - banner of victory (Wyl. rgyal mtshan)

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 (Wyl. chos kyi 'khor lo)

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