What is the meaning of endless knot?
Introduction
The Endless Knot symbol (Sanskrit name is shrivatsa) is ancient and may have its origin in a Naga-related symbology.
Nagas are a class of beings that live in a variety of locations ranging from underground locations and waterways, and also in unseen realms.
These powerful beings have their own perceptions and vary in their enlightened level, as do human beings.
In addition, some Nagas take the role of Dharma (spiritual teachings) protectors.
More importantly, in Hindu mythology, they are malevolent and benevolent, Gods and demons.
The Nagas represent our unconscious mind which consists of 2 parts: the higher self and our base consciousness.
Serpents also symbolize renewal and rebirth due to the systematic shedding of their skin.
You can also find serpents in ancient cultures representing the cycles of time.
Endless Knot meaning in Tibetan Buddhism
In Tibetan Buddhism, the symbol of promise symbolizes the unity between compassion and infinite wisdom, that is, without beginning or end.
Occasionally, you can find the symbol in Chinese art and used in Chinese knots.
The symbol also represents Samsara, which is the endless cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, a karmic cycle that continues eternally until complete spiritual liberation.
Since the symbol has no beginning or end, it represents the wisdom of the Buddha.
Another possible interpretation relates to the interaction of the opposing forces in the dualistic world of manifestation, leading to their union and ultimately to harmony in the entire creation.
Eternal Knot meaning in Celtic art
This Buddhist symbol is comparable to knots of other ancient cultures, bearing a fascinating similarity to the Celtic Knot of the ancient Celts.
The Celtic symbol, also known as the mystic knot, represents an uninterrupted life cycle. These symbols started to appear in Celtic Art in the 5th century.
Feng Shui
This symbol is frequently used in feng shui amulets for love, abundance, prosperity, and protection.
In feng shui, it represents a harmonious flow of positive energy uninterrupted by any misfortunes, setbacks, or accidents.
Eight Auspicious Symbols
This symbol is part of Eight Auspicious Symbols. The other seven symbols are:
The Treasure Vase
The treasure vase’s meaning is connected with the ideas of storage and the satisfaction of material aspirations.
Shakyamuni Buddha said that the roots of suffering are in the attachment to desire and that to end suffering, a sentient being has to cease caring about these attachments.
The Dharma Wheel
In Buddhism, the dharma wheel is one of the most important symbols, as it represents the teachings of Shakyamuni Buddha. Usually, the dharma wheel has three main parts:
- the hub (representing moral discipline);
- the rim (representing mindfulness or meditative concentration that is required to hold other spiritual teachings together);
- the spokes (representing the Three Jewels or Three Treasures – Buddha, dharma, sangha). The newest versions of this symbol have four spokes, representing the 4 ”moments” in life.
The Victory Banner
This symbol signifies the victory of Gautama Buddha’s teachings over ignorance, death, disharmony, suffering, and all the negativities of this world.
The Lotus Flower
The lotus flower is similar to how we rise up from our sufferings to reach spiritual enlightenment, clarity, and beauty.
Also, the mud nourishing the roots of a lotus flower symbolizes our messy human lives.
Moreover, this symbol is commonly used with the six-syllable mantra – Om Mani Padme Hum, to represent spiritual growth.
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The Golden Fish
In Buddhism, this symbol represents happiness because a fish has complete freedom in the water.
Furthermore, the fish symbolizes plenitude and fertility.
In Hinduism, the two fish represent the Yamuna and the Ganges rivers.
The Parasol
This symbol represents notions of royalty or wealth, for one had to be financially rich enough to possess such an item.
Also, it represents the enjoyment of a feast of benefits under its cool shade.
The dome signifies compassion and wisdom, both of these being essential in the Buddhist tradition.
The Conch Shell
In Buddhism, the conch shell symbol represents the joyful and deep sound of the Dharma teachings.
It is also emblematic of great spiritual power, and its vibration is believed to protect from evil spirits.
Image source – Shutterstock
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Irina is a co-founder and author at AwakeningState.com, an online magazine launched in 2016 that aims to expand consciousness every day. Offering eye-opening articles on a range of topics, Irina strives to provide unique insights into personal growth, covering areas such as spiritual awakening, health, lifestyle, nature, and science.