Unveiling the Significance of Drawing Swastika in Rituals
Power or Aura is not tangible, but rather felt. Every religion has a signifying symbol or element which is considered holy, across the globe. However, in Hindu religion, you will find more than one. Among many sacraments like Om, Siva Linga, Tilak, Vibuti, Haldi-kumkum dots, rangoli, and more, Swastika in Rituals is the most prominent and auspicious symbol, extensively used in almost every ritual.
The existence of the Swastika symbol dates back to around 3000 B.C. during the Indus Valley Civilization. According to some archeological records the sign was found carved on Mesopotamian coins and on house walls as well.
Archaeological excavations at Troy uncovered nearly 1,800 artifacts that bore the Swastika sign. This symbol was also utilized by the Nordic Tribes, the Celts, and the Druids. It is that old.
Why is Swastika Drawn in Hindu Rituals?
To understand the significance better, let's have a look into its origin. The word ‘Swastika’ was derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Svastika’, which means the Existence of Good—good Luck and Well-being. According to popular belief, the sign is the four-fold division of the Universe that possesses immense divine power filled with goodness and prosperity.
The Mythological Belief
The depiction of the four-fold has been believed to represent various aspects of life and divinity. To some, the four-fold is perceived as the four purposes of life — Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha. Likewise, a few consider the Swastika symbol as the portrayal of the universe/world —- Human, Animal, Plant, and Elements (air, fire, water, earth, and sky).
In Hindu Mythology, Swastika represents Lord Vishnu, Surya Dev, Devi Kali, and Tantra, the supremos of energy beholder. The symbol also apprehends the holy text of Hinduism — Veda– Rig Veda, Yajur Veda, Atharva Veda, and Sama Veda.
In the Bhagavad Gita, they say the soul is eternal and imperishable. It neither dies nor is born new; instead, it transitions from one existence to another. This means that we have lived past lives, are experiencing our current existence, and will embark on new journeys after death through rebirth.
Nature, in her infinite wisdom, is continuously maintaining this balance across all realms, including cosmic activities.
Many of us find solace in principles such as "what goes around, comes around," "everything happens for a reason," or "everyone must bear the consequences of their actions"—the essence of Karma. These beliefs emphasize the interconnectedness of actions, outcomes, and the broader rhythm of the universe through the Hindu Swastika symbol.
Hence, it can be said the theory of life, positive and negative powers, knowledge, and wisdom; when all the various four-folds work together, it strikes a balance in nature, making the world livable, soothing, kind, beautiful, generous, and filled with prosperity.
As the symbol signifies the circle of life which also defines positivity and goodness; a mark of civilization, Swastika is drawn in most Indian Cultural events.
Drawing of Swastika in Hindu Rituals
The symbol Swastika is drawn on every holy occasion of Hinduism —- Puja, Griha Pravesh, Marriage, Baby Shower, New Venture Opening, on New Car, and more.
The vibrancy of the red color and the positivity retained by the symbol Swastika is also used in the ritual of Vastu Puja. Marking the center of the puja or bhoomi removes any prevailing negativity from home. Vastu Puja using the auspicious Swastika can be performed in any establishment that is built for the purpose of bringing goodness, and wealth in life and society at large.
The Swastika symbol is even marked near the entrance to welcome prosperity; this is because the symbol of auspiciousness is considered to bring in Good Fortune. Thus, can be witnessed in several Hindu religious ceremonies and rituals.
Swastika in Hindu Rituals — Bring Simplicity, Purity, Grace, and Goodness in Life!
The Swastika is not just any Hindu religious symbol, if you look through history you will find its presence in different shapes in many religions beyond borders. However, according to Hindu scriptures, the symbol is considered to be the vessel of power of the universe – eternity – divine. Thus it finds its significance in almost every Indian culture and belief system (Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, etc.)
Well, nobody can get the hang of the century-old worshiped symbol just like that. Many might consider certain rituals superstitious, only because of finding difficulty in reasoning and explanation of certain acts. But there is a reason behind every happening!
As the physical depiction of Swastika is observed worldwide, the absolute beauty and power of this holy auspicious symbol lies in uniting souls and culture, transcending borders (logically speaking, rituals are no rules to be followed but uniting of loved ones; isn’t so?).
Sri Gauri Shankar Mandir prays for your good life and good fortune. May the grace of this divine symbol continues to bless those who revere it.
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