Eight auspicious symbols

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The eight auspicious symbols (Skt. aṣṭamaṅgala; Wyl. bkra shis rtags bryad) are:


The Most Precious Parasol

  • white umbrella (Skt. sitātapatra; Wyl. gdugs)

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

The Auspicious Golden Fishes

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

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

The Wish-fulfilling Vase of Treasure

  • flask of treasure (Skt. nidhi-ghaṭa; 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

  • lotus flower (Skt. padma-kuñjara; 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

  • conch turning to right (Skt. śaṅkha-varta; Wyl. dung dkar g.yas 'khyil)

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

The Glorious Endless Knot

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

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

The Ever-Flying Banner of Victory

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

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

The All-powerful Wheel

  • golden wheel (Skt. suvarṅa-cakra; Wyl. chos kyi 'khor lo)

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

Further Reading

  • Dagyab Rinpoche, Buddhist Symbols in Tibetan Culture, Wisdom Publications, 1995, 1. The Eight Symbols of Good Fortune.