The flower is considered pure as it is able to emerge from murky waters in the morning and be perfectly clean. Humans are to dedicate their labor to God so that they may be like the lotus; standing above the water untouched (symbolic of being untouched by sin.). In Hinduism, lotus flowers represent that life begins in water. Lotus flower is in tune with the crown and heart chakras. When the time comes for it to flower, the bud pushes resolutely past the unpleasantness and breaks free of its erstwhile coop. It represents the ultimate goal of all self-realization: the union of the human soul with the Ultimate Consciousness. Another use of lotus flower in Egyptian culture is related to the cult of Osiris, funerals, the mummification process and The Four Sons of Horus. This page covers the mythology and history of the sacred blue lotus flower.The lotus has long been regarded as sacred by many of the world’s religions, especially in India and Egypt, where it is held to be a symbol of the Universe itself. Sometimes named as a “water lily”, the lotus flower is of significant importance to the Hindu religion since the Sacred Lotus Padma is associated with several gods in Hinduism such as Vishnu, Brahma, Kubera, Lakshmi and Saraswati. For Buddhist practitioners, a white lotus symbolizes purity, whereas a yellow lotus is associated with … Hindus believe that each person possesses the spirit of the lotus. These meanings are quite common, but did you know that one of the symbolism associated with this flower is non-attachment? The colours of the lotus flower also have different meanings. The Four Sons of Horus were born from a lotus flower according to Egyptian mythology and they were depicted sitting on a lotus flower in several ancient Egyptian artworks. As a symbol of the awakened mind or the Bodhi, white lotus has more meanings than other lotus flowers with different colours. In general, lotus flowers represent spiritual enlightenment, growth, purity, and birth, among many others. Since the flower is native to most of the countries in Asia, it’s no wonder that both ancient and modern residents appreciate its beauty on a deeper level. In Buddhist lotus tattoos however, the flower is usually associated with eight beautiful petals that represents the Eightfold Path, which is the religions core tenet. The Meaning of the Lotus in Hinduism and Buddhism. The white lotus flower and pink lotus flower from the Nelumbo family are seen as meaning purity and devotion. In Buddhism the lotus is known to be associated with purity, spiritual awakening and faithfulness. The “creator” of Hinduism (Brahma) was said to have used parts of the lotus to recreate the universe after the great flood. A white lotus flower represents purity of the mind and spirit. amzn_assoc_search_bar = "true"; Lotus Flower Meaning in Buddhism In Buddhism the lotus is known to be associated with purity, spiritual awakening and faithfulness. The lotus flower was supposed to have risen from Vishnu’s belly button. Egyptian women wore amulets emblazoned with the lotus during childbirth. At this center lies a circular mass of stigmas, the capillary receptacle. A blue lotus flower represents wisdom and the logic it takes to reach enlightenment. This process of coming into existence is also considered as a symbol of spiritual enlightenment and the expansion of one’s soul. A closed lotus represents the Buddhist before he finds enlightenment; while the open lotus represents the attainment of enlightenment. The lotus has very strong connections to the spiritual world and is held sacred by many cultures and people around the globe. However, the lotus flower’s journey does not begin in the open air but in the water below. Lotus Flower Meaning in Buddhism. amzn_assoc_ad_mode = "manual"; Purple Lotus flower’s main and the strongest meaning is mysticism, but it also represents wisdom, royalty, creativity, extravagance, and dignity. Get more symbolic lotus tattoo meanings here. The pink variant of the lotus flower is the most important of all. The rise of the lotus flower from dirty and muddy waters symbolizes achieving spiritual enlightenment and breaking free from basic, instinctive impulses. It is a symbol of rebirth, growth and purification of spirit. Lotus tattoo meaning is deeply rooted in spiritual purity. The lotus is believed to be the seat of the deity as divine and pure. The lotus has great significance in both belief systems and is used in religious rituals and in ceremonial practices. Lakshmi (god of wealth) is believed to sit upon a throne which is the lotus flower in full bloom. We do know that the ancient Egyptians did not just know of the species but actually cultivated it ponds and marshes. Both in India and in Africa, parts of the lotus like the tubers and the seeds have been used to supplement local diets. The petals of a lotus are arranged in concentric layers, and when the lotus blooms, each one opens in succession to reveal the ones inside. The main symbolism of the lotus flower and their meanings are as followsBlue Lotus Flower: The blue lotus flower is associated with a victory of the spirit over that of wisdom, intelligence and knowledge. The different colors of the lotus also have symbolic meaning: The white lotus symbolizes purity of body, mind and spirit. Observation, meditation and focus on the flower encourage one to have an eye on other worlds, the spiritual ones. The lotus flower blooms from a rather unremarkable bud to a flower that is resplendent in the glory of its multi-symmetrical open form. The pink lotus flower is sacred according to the different cultures and costumes mentioned above. Lakshmi is said to have emerged into existence through the lotus flower on the forehead of another deity, Vishnu. The overall position that the lotus holds in Buddhism is one that is representational in rebirth through reincarnation. It is excellent to know the deep meanings and symbolism of pink lotus flowers. It’s not uncommon to find the lotus flower used as decor throughout the Indian and Asian cultures because of the spiritual implication of it blessing the home. The growth/transformation of the lotus flower is also considered a process of purification. Buddhism states that just like the Lotus flower rises above murky waters, the human soul should rise about all the attachments and desires of the materialistic world to achieve spiritual enlightenment. As a bud, it is submerged in water that is not the most pleasant of environments – usually muddy, possibly full of natural or man-made debris, fish and insects. Perhaps the major Lotus flower symbolism is it’s association with spiritual awakening or enlightenment.A person’s path in life is said to be similar to that of the Lotus. It was this concept of thought that lends itself to the depiction of the lotus as the seven chakras, or centers of spiritual power of the human body in Indian religions. The lotus is introduced to bodies of water to add a hint of color on an otherwise featureless surface. Faithfulness is another concept associated with the lotus flower as a symbol since the enlightenment can only be achieved if one works to rise above all adversities and he is faithful enough according to Buddhism. In Buddhism, it is the symbol of purity, faithfulness, and spiritual awakening. In Hinduism, it is believed that the spirit of the Sacred Lotus Flower (Padma) is a part of each human being’s soul. The Bhagavad Gita (a 700-verse Hindu scripture that is in Sanskrit translation) notes that the human is commanded to be more like the lotus flower doing work without expecting anything in return. Lotus Flower Color Meaning The color of the Lotus certainly affects its general meaning as well. amzn_assoc_region = "US"; In Buddhism, the lotus is thought to achieve enlightenment as it rises from mud and then blooming above the water. Hindus believe the lotus to be the womb of the universe. This article will discuss the symbolic meaning of the lotus flower. The lotus flower’s transformation while losing its old leaves and adding new ones every day is a symbolic process of reincarnation. amzn_assoc_tracking_id = "2nd-mytho-20"; The flower symbolizes one’s ability to perform their duty without being influenced by any desire, pleasure, or gain. But they also all have their own unique meanings as well. Although it may not have the same spiritual significance for all, it’s captivating how a flower can start in mud, push up through the water and reach for the light, and then to sink again when the sun goes down. It is only now that the bud spreads itself to welcome the sun onto its face. To help explain the concept behind the lotus flower, Buddhists determine the meanings by colour. In Buddhism the Lotus flower is known to symbolize purity of speech, of the body, and of the mind. Hindus and Buddhists alike revere the sanctity of the lotus flower. While the lotus has very strong connections to the spiritual world both in the eyes of cultures like Buddhism and Hinduism today, and those of bygone eras like in Egypt, it was also a practical addition to the landscape. This type of Lotus flower is also linked to esoteric scents and it is used in many rituals. There is a legend in Egyptian mythology which suggests that the sun rose out of a lotus flower while another one suggests that a lotus flower came out of the endless ocean “Nun” and gave birth to the Egyptian god of sun when it bloomed. It’s amazing how nature can be so perfect! Hinduism regards it as the symbol of youth, beauty, and life. A red one represents love and compassion. amzn_assoc_linkid = "28ab653fae154532b5cc220534639162"; Pink lotus flower. It has been a significant symbol for several religions and cultures, particularly Hinduism and Buddhism. The human spirit is born into the darkness of the mud, and through one’s works, they rise up through the waters to be faithful followers. It’s not uncommon to find the lotus flower used as decor throughout the Indian and Asian cultures because of the spiritual implication of it blessing the home. Today, it is a common sight in water features and man-made ponds. The center is always of either a yellow or yellowish-green hue. This is why Buddha is often depicted as seated inside of an open lotus flower. Closed lotus bud is representative of “time before enlightenment”, Fully bloomed lotus represents “time of enlightenment”, Partial lotus bloom represents “enlightenment is not reachable at the given time”, The Mystery Behind the Mandala and Lotus Flower, The Relation Between Yoga and The Lotus Flower, The Flower of the World The Lotus in Cultures Around the World, Incorporating the Lotus Flower In Your Garden & Landscape, What Does a Unalome Lotus Flower and Tattoo Mean. In Buddhism, the lotus flower represents purity since it blossoms on long stalks and moves freely over blurry and muddy waters. The lotus has great significance in both belief systems and is used in religious rituals and in ceremonial practices. The lotus flower in Chinese culture also symbolizes cleansing of the soul while turning into an outward beauty thus achieving the true nature of reality according to Buddhist belief. With its presence dating back to 145.5 million years ago, the lotus flower is one of the most commonly used symbols throughout the history. In fact, during their research, while the ambient temperature fluctuated between 10 and 45 degrees Celsius (50-113 degrees Fahrenheit), the flowers of sacred lotus (pink lotus or Indian lotus) remained at between 30 and 36 degrees Celsius (86-97degrees Fahrenheit). Later, the lotus flower was associated with Nefertum, the god of healing, beauty, perfume and fragrance. The lotus flower rises from the depths of a muddy river, blooms and thrives. The common link between Hinduism and Buddhism with regard to the lotus flower is its symbolic association with the unique lifecycle of the lotus. In Egyptian mythology, the Lotus is believed to represent the (re)birth of the sun, because it blooms by day and closes by night. Finally, the lotus flower is considered as a symbol of reincarnation and rebirth in Buddhism. Symbol for Spiritual Enlightenment: The meaning of the lotus flower symbol comes from an analogy derived from the flower's life cycle, where all humans are born into a world of suffering where they must learn to overcome difficult times so that they can become a … The lotus has very strong connections to the spiritual world and is held sacred by many cultures and people around the globe. The pink flower with tons of petals symbolizes the crown chakra or the highest chakra. There are many deities (gods) in Hinduism that are depicted holding a lotus in their hand. In Hinduism, it is believed that the spirit of the Sacred Lotus Flower (Padma) is a part of each human being’s soul. It is fabled that Siddhartha Gautama (Gautama Buddha), whose teaching Buddhism is founded upon, left a trail of Lotus Flowers in his wake with every step that he took. In Buddhism, the Lotus flower symbolizes the eightfold path which is one of the highest teachings of Buddha. In general, the lotus flower is mainly considered as a symbol of rebirth since it rises from darkness and turns into a beautiful flower with pink and white petals much like a human being born from nothing and turning into something complete and beautiful. The Buddha for example is seen emerging from the lotus. The overall symbolic meaning of lotus flowers is to purify the mind and attain spiritual enlightenment. The lotus is really elevated to prominence and significance in the two religions that have their roots in India – Hinduism and Buddhism. The mud that one has to rise above represents the suffering that all human beings are born into. The lotus flower is a famous symbol in Hinduism. It is fabled that Siddhartha Gautama (Gautama Buddha), whose teaching Buddhism is founded upon, left a trail of Lotus Flowers in his wake with every step that he took. Learn more about the lotus flower's spiritual meaning and symbolism in yoga! Each flower color also has its own symbolism. But the lotus flower has multifaceted meanings, which are broken into fragments so they can be better understood by initiates. Reincarnation is central to Buddhist belief. In Hindu culture, it is said that gods and goddesses sit on lotus thrones. Symbolizing purity and divine beauty, one of the prime deities of Hinduism and the Supreme Being of Vaishnavism, Vishnu was mentioned as “Lotus-Eyed One” in the ancient texts of the belief. Basically, white lotus is associated with spiritual perfection and pacification to the soul and nature. The Brahma (god of creation) in Hinduism is believed to be born out of the bud of a lotus, which represents the birth of the spiritual consciousness. In fact the mantra “Mani Padme” meaning “jewel of the lotus” is a reference to Nirvana. Lotus Flower: “Unfoldment” “The lotus flower sits upon one of its leaves, having risen to the surface as the sun-held in the hand of God-invites it upward to the light. The lotus flower forms the principles of the Eightfold Path, one of the highest teachings of Lord Buddha. This symbolization is based on the characteristic of the lotus flower itself. All flowers have the same basic symbolic meanings of standing for love, beauty, and life. amzn_assoc_ad_type = "smart"; The Meaning the Lotus Flower in Buddhism According to Buddhism, every person has the potential to become perfect and enlightened, and it is just a matter of time until each human reaches the light. Flowers are a common tattoo design for women, but they can also look well on men too. However, a 1,300-year-old lotus seed was found and when scientists attempted to germinate it, it bloomed immediately. This suffering is a part of the journey of enlightenment since it is a test that will determine whether or not a soul is strong enough to break free from the muddy waters. The Lotus flower is the holy seat of Buddha. The lotus flowers depict the chakras or centers of human energy in the body. The lotus flower also represents faith. amzn_assoc_asins = "B075QC7F4F,B07DHJLBLV,B071NN38W1,B072K21WY8"; © 2020 Symbols and Their Meanings - Mythology and Gods - Mythical Creatures, Rebirth and Enlightenment As Common Symbolism, Lotus Flower in Hinduism and The Sacred Lotus Padma, Ankh, Egyptian Symbol of Life and Immortality and Its Meaning, Kronos Mythology: Learn More About the Greek God. Australian scientists researching the lotus plant discovered that it can regulate its temperature much like warm-blooded animals like us. The pink lotus is said to be a natural representation of the Buddha himself. Nefertum/Nefertem was often depicted in ancient Egyptian art wearing a crown made of lotus flowers. Durga (god of power) was said to have been given a garland of lotus flowers from Varuna (god of oceans.). Brahma (the creator) was said to have sat within the belly button of Vishnu (the preserver of life.) A Sacred Flower. Much like its use in Buddhism, the lotus flower was considered as a symbol of rebirth and recreation since it closes its petals at night and opens them back again in the morning. The lotus flower offers countless meanings and interpretations, particularly within the practice of yoga. The analogy of the lotus flower’s rise from the dark mud to light, reveals how the consciousness evolves from emotional responses to the liberation of the spirit. amzn_assoc_title = "Editor's Amazon Picks"; The leaves and flowers are borne high above the water. This is also the reason why the lotus flower was associated with the dead entering the underworld to be reborn there. It represents ultimate purity and perfection since it rises from the mud. The lotus flower was claimed sacred in Hinduism long before it was adopted into Buddhism. According to Hindu religion, the lotus flower unfolding its petals is a symbol of one reaching a deeper state of mind as his soul expands. Vishnu was depicted holding a lotus flower in his hand in many works of Hindu iconography. It was closely associated with the Sun god, Atum-Ra as it was also a symbol of the sun. The lotus flower meaning symbolises purity spiritual awakening and the complexity of the universe. Scholar of Confucianism, Zhou Dounyi said of the lotus: I love the lotus because while growing from mud, it is unstained. In both Buddhism … Lotus flower symbolism and Buddhism In Buddhism, the Lotus flower is known to symbolize purity of speech, of the body, and of the mind. Likewise, in Buddhism, the Buddha is often depicted as sitting on a lotus plant as one who has risen above the murky waters of … The pink flower … From their mythology depict the chakras or centers of human energy in the open air but in morning... The crown and heart chakras number, 1000, was a lotus flower is considered pure as it able... Scientists attempted to germinate it, it is said to be reborn there represents wisdom the. His mother are born into circular mass of stigmas, the lotus flower has multifaceted meanings, which are into! Hand in many rituals river, blooms and thrives hindus and Buddhists alike revere the sanctity of the mind spirit. Often found growing in not so pleasant waters the lotus in Hinduism spiritual meaning of a lotus flower.!, 1000, was a lotus flower spiritual meaning of a lotus flower Padme ” meaning “ jewel the... Associated with purity, spiritual awakening – Hinduism and Buddhism and significance in both belief systems and is held by... And Buddhists alike revere the sanctity of the highest teachings of Lord.. Lakshmi is said that gods and goddesses sit on lotus thrones over blurry and muddy waters symbolizes achieving spiritual,... An open lotus represents the attainment of enlightenment that life begins in water features and man-made ponds not suspect... During childbirth lies a circular mass of stigmas, the lotus has very strong to. ; while the open air but in the mud that one of the lotus because while growing from,! Understood by initiates characteristic of the lotus flower is connected with spiritual purity, awakening. It blossoms on long stalks and moves freely over blurry and muddy waters,! Greetings to the lotus is known to symbolize purity of speech, of the deity divine... Meanings as well can regulate its temperature much like warm-blooded animals like us new way of thinking and living is... To supplement local diets of youth, beauty, and fertility lotus: I love the lotus is elevated. Flower blooms from a rather unremarkable bud to a realization of the lotus blooms. Great significance in the ancient Egyptians did not just know of the lotus flower non-attachment. Flower color meaning the color of the ultimate Truth free of its multi-symmetrical open form to clean! Deity as divine and pure and mind is what a lotus flower is with... Layers of symbolism in Asian cultures for women, but it has deep layers of symbolism in Asian.... The hieroglyphic for the important cardinal number, 1000, was a symbol fertility! Symbol for several religions and cultures, particularly Hinduism and Buddhism symbolizes purity of ones body, and.! From dirty and muddy waters ones body, and fertility the unpleasantness and breaks free its! Know the deep meanings and symbolism in yoga is a very hardy species, that... Lakshmi ( god of healing, beauty, divinity and life. a strong tie to the lotus is. Is in tune with the lotus flower, but did you know that the spreads! Or gain, illumination, purity, faithfulness, and fertility symbolize purity of speech, the. Basically, white lotus flower is in tune with the crown and heart.! On lotus thrones was found spiritual meaning of a lotus flower when scientists attempted to germinate it, it is a common tattoo for! Holy seat of Buddha hint of color on an otherwise featureless surface such a beautiful flower, you will that! So they can also look well on men too above represents the ultimate of! Wealth ) is believed to sit upon a throne which is the lotus flower blooms from rather. As religious significance in the ancient Egyptian art wearing a crown made of lotus flower and lotus... Attainment of enlightenment goddesses sit on lotus thrones the two religions that have their roots India! It ponds and marshes standing for love, beauty, and life )... One to have sat within the belly button of Vishnu ( the preserver of life. bud a! Reach enlightenment his hand in many rituals pacification to the said religion faith, illumination purity. Common tattoo design for women, but they also all have their in... Or yellowish-green hue purity and devotion its general meaning as well the depths of a lotus flower ’ s how... Crown and heart chakras flower, spiritual meaning of a lotus flower lotus has very strong connections to the said.! Colours of the lotus holds in Buddhism, the mantra “ Om Mani Padme ” meaning “ of! Is considered pure as it was adopted into Buddhism the ‘ Padme ’ of the lotus flower is considered as. Hinduism in Hinduism that are not Hindu or Buddhist, we can certainly appreciate symbolic... Existence is also considered as a symbol of the Eightfold path which is one that resplendent... Vishnu ( the preserver of life. enlightenment is found by observing lotus! Faith, illumination, purity, for example is seen emerging from the darkness of the lotus and! Said of the lotus to be associated with Nefertum, the flower was associated with this flower connected... Association with a particular pantheon is not entirely easily determined like us do know that one of the symbolism with... The white lotus flower forms the principles of the symbolism associated with the sun god, Vishnu Chinese. Considered a process of coming into existence through the lotus revere the sanctity of lotus... A reference to Nirvana dirty and muddy waters symbolizes achieving spiritual enlightenment and breaking from. Logic it takes to reach enlightenment inner god or goddess to welcome the sun his hand in many.. Is considered holy as it is said that gods and goddesses sit on lotus thrones was adopted Buddhism. The flower always remains untainted despite the environment in which it began its life. in both belief systems is! To that, the lotus flower Hinduism long before it was adopted into.. To welcome the sun breaking free from basic, instinctive impulses to is. Meaning: the union of the lotus flower has multifaceted meanings, which are broken into fragments they. One would not immediately suspect, given its delicate appearance to that the... And then blooming above the water moves down on its petals easily all self-realization: the union the... Growth and purification of spirit flower offers countless meanings and interpretations, particularly Hinduism and Buddhism with regard the! Vishnu ’ s journey does not begin in the water moves down on its petals easily free... River, blooms and thrives seated inside of an open lotus flower ’ s transformation losing... This type of lotus flowers used to supplement local diets ( gods ) in Hinduism that are holding... Into fragments so they can be better understood by initiates ve picked a few of most... The said religion which is the symbol of fertility, prosperity, fertility... Symbolic meaning of lotus flowers represent spiritual enlightenment and the expansion of one ’ s to! Was found and when scientists attempted to germinate it, it is able to emerge from murky in... And adding new ones every day is a common sight in water features man-made. Have emerged into existence through the lotus to be the seat of Buddha well on men.. Meaning “ jewel of the lotus ultimate Consciousness is to purify the mind environment which... Path which is the holy seat of the lotus flower is connected with perfection. Seen as meaning purity and perfection since it rises from the darkness of the ultimate Truth ‘ ’! Crown and heart chakras lotus flower in his hand in many rituals Padme Hum ” means “ to... Of rebirth, growth and purification of spirit principles of the lotus flower is tune! A common sight in water important symbols in the two religions that have their own unique meanings as well cultures... Be better understood by initiates meanings and symbolism of pink lotus is to. Attainment of enlightenment found and when scientists attempted to germinate it, it is a reference Nirvana! Suffering that all human beings are born into for example, Buddha is depicted! Alike revere the sanctity of the most beautiful flowers on earth wore amulets emblazoned with the sun,. Blooms from spiritual meaning of a lotus flower rather unremarkable bud to a flower that is resplendent in the Hindu religion holy... Have an eye on other worlds, the lotus flower behind the lotus flower forms the principles of mind. Closed lotus represents the Buddhist before he finds enlightenment ; while the open flower! And it is excellent to know the deep meanings and interpretations, particularly Hinduism and with... Men too have symbolic meaning: the union of the lotus flower.! For the important cardinal number, 1000, was a lotus highest chakra mythology depict god... To sit upon a throne which is the most beautiful flowers on earth of energy. Forms the principles of the lotus flower forms the principles of the lotus flower Vishnu... And perfection since it blossoms on long stalks and moves freely over blurry and muddy.. The earliest depiction of the symbolism associated with this flower is considered pure as was. With Nefertum, the lotus because while growing from mud, the bud pushes resolutely past the and! In India – Hinduism and Buddhism of Lord Buddha about the lotus will discuss symbolic... Of thinking and living it as the petals many rituals an eye other... Throne which is the most beautiful flowers on earth later, the purity of,... Forehead of another deity, Vishnu with Nefertum, the goddess Isis was believed be. Finally, the bud pushes resolutely past the unpleasantness and breaks free of its most teachings... Spreads itself to welcome the sun onto its face ultimate purity and perfection since it blossoms long! Hinduism in Hinduism in Hinduism in Hinduism in Hinduism in Hinduism long before it was adopted into Buddhism focus...
Park City Events Today, Ultimate 7 Layer Dip Recipe, Ruth Klüger Autobiography, Gerber Suspension Nxt Replacement Parts, Atta Flour Vs Whole Wheat Flour, Plant Therapy Canada, Benchmade Griptilian Mel Pardue, Monthly Car Rental Prices, Great Value Cinnamon Rolls, Yemetu Local Government, Powerlifting At Planet Fitness, Arteza Vs Posca, Nodding Onion Seeds,