Ashtamangalas

By Victor M Fontane

The Ashtamangala are the Eight Auspicious Symbols of Buddhism, Jainism, and Hinduism, which represent good fortune and the qualities of enlightenment. Their elements vary, but in the Tibetan Buddhist context they include a parasol, two golden fish, a treasure vase, a lotus, a white conch, an endless knot, a victory banner, and the wheel of dharma. These symbols are used as teaching tools and in temple and home decorations to attract blessings.

The Eight Auspicious Symbols (Ashtamangala) in Buddhism:

1. The Precious Parasol: Represents protection against adversity, suffering, and impurities.

2. The Precious (Golden) Fish: Symbolize freedom and joy, as they swim unhindered in the water, representing spiritual liberation.

3. The Treasure Vase (Precious Vessel): Symbolizes spiritual wealth, abundance, and the fullness of teachings.

4. The Lotus: Represents purity, the ability to emerge from the mud into beauty and enlightenment.

5. The Precious Conch (White): Symbolizes the sound of dharma, heard in all directions, and the virtue of wisdom that resonates throughout the world.

6. The Infinite Knot (Eternal): Represents the interconnectedness of all things, the eternity of dharma, and a bond of connection.

7. The Victory Banner (Victory Flag): Symbolizes triumph over ignorance and suffering, and the victory of wisdom.

8. The Wheel of Dharma (Precious): Symbolizes the path of Buddhist teachings and the cycle of life, ever-turning and expanding.

Meaning and Use:

* Ashtamangala are considered teaching tools that point to the qualities of enlightenment.

* They often appear embroidered on fabrics, painted on objects, and in the decoration of temples, shrines, and homes.

* In Tibetan Buddhism, these symbols are believed to represent the offerings that the gods made to the Buddha after he attained enlightenment.