Скачать или смотреть ASTAMANGAL: The Eight Auspicious Symbols

The profound symbolism of the Eight Auspicious Symbols in Northern Buddhist art. These symbols, present on religious structures, homes, and silk hangings, hold cultural importance across the northern Buddhist world. Each symbol carries deep meaning:
1. Precious Parasol (Duk/Chhatra): Represents protection by the dharma, offering relief from desire's fires, and symbolizes centrality.
2. Victory Banner (Gyaltsen/Dhvaja): Originally a military standard, it now signifies triumph over ignorance and hindrances.
3. Conch Shell (Dung/Sankha): Clockwise-twisting shell symbolizing the eternal sound of the universe and the right approach to holy objects.
4. Endless Knot (Pelbeu/Srivatsa): Symbolizes Buddha's endless compassion and wisdom, possibly evolving from ancient naga symbolism.
5. Wheel of Dharma (Chos Kyi Khorlo/Dharma-Chakra): Circular symbol representing perfection and Buddha's teachings.
6. Vase (Bumpa/Kalasa): Holds the nectar of immortality, symbolizing spiritual wealth and richness.
7. Two Golden Fishes (Sernya/Suvarna-Matsya): Symbolize humanity in samsara, representing wealth and transcendent wisdom.
8. Lotus (Pema/Padma): Symbolizes purity, rising above desire's murky waters, with different colors representing various virtues.
These symbols, deeply embedded in Northern Buddhist art and daily life, serve as a visual language transcending time, conveying cultural, philosophical, and spiritual significance.