"Swastika" The Symbol of Prosperity and Good Luck in Hinduism

 

Swastika

When we talk about our prestigious country India we automatically connect to the very popular religion of Hinduism. Hinduism is the traditional ‘way of life’ or ‘dharma’ followed by the people of India known as Hindus. When we talk about Hindu culture there are two broad categories popular as ‘Sanatan Dharma’ and ‘Vaidik Dharma’. There are a number of unique texts, scripts, verses, signs, symbols and other snippets that make Hindu religion unique and important for every individual irrespective of its religion, caste, creed, gender and age.

It is a magnificent culture which according to the Hindu texts has its root even before the origin of humans. Hinduism is followed by a huge number of about 1.2 billions followers around the world. Number of signs and symbols are there which have immense capacity to transform the life of people by bringing good fortune to them. One such popular symbol in Hinduism is 'Swastik'.

About Swastika

"Swastik" is derived from a Sanskrit word "swa" means good and "Asti '' means existence which gives rise to a meaning 'the existence of goodness' or good fortune. Also known as ‘Satya’ or ‘svastika’ this symbol is a gift given to humans by the ancient vedic period. Swastik symbol is considered very auspicious in Hindu religion which symbolises power, good fortune and prosperity.

The symbol is of two kinds. The first known as "Swastika", facing the right side, is clockwise denoting Surya, prosperity and good fortune.

The second form is "Sauvastika", left facing, which is the anti-clockwise denoting night or the tantric aspects of Kali.

Due to its general nature of spreading "well being" everywhere the symbol is widely accepted throughout the world. It is used by many religions like Hindus, Buddhists and Jains in India. It has been looked up as the common symbol or a sign of India.

The influence of "Swastik" is not only limited to the boundaries of India but it has also captured the hearts of Western people. After knowing the power of "Swastik" Western people started using it back at their homes.

Structure of Swastika

The very peculiar structure of "Swastik" is designed in such a way that it wards off negativity and attracts positivity.

There are four limbs of the "Swastika" facing four different directions indicating four different values. These limbs can be interpreted or compared to the forms of Vedas (Rigveda, Yajurveda, Samaveda, Atharvaveda). They can also be seen as four main life goals as mentioned in Hindu texts like Dharma (right action), Artha (worldly prosperity), Kama (worldly enjoyment) and Moksha (spiritual liberation). Moreover, the four seasons, four directions or the four Yugas (Satya yuga, Treta yuga, Dwapar yuga, Kali yuga) can be related to the four limbs of the "Swastika".

The structure of Swastika represents the family of Ganesha along with two wives (Riddhi and Siddhi) and two sons (Shubh and Labh) which is considered pious in every religious occasion. The symbol is very sacred and attracts good fortune and gains so it should be created in a proper way.

The value of creating a “Swastika” is of great importance as it involves particular rules of making it properly for efficiency. Usually people make “Swastika” by crossing two lines at each other which is the wrong way. It is always advised to make the symbol with the right hand and without crossing two lines.

Importance of Swastika

Hindu is a rich religion loaded with signs and symbols which are of immense importance for the growth of humans.

The popularity of "Swastika" is widespread throughout the globe, limited not only to Indian boundaries but also extended to Britain, Russia and many more.

Everyone desires for a good fortune, wealth, positive aura, and success with power. When all these perks come easily with a religious symbol then that symbol acquires a special position and place in religious occasions and celebrations.

“Swastika” is the symbol that is seen as a symbol of great value as it relates to:

  • Four directions conveying a valuable meaning.
  • Attracts positive energy and protects from negative energy.
  • If the symbol is rotating then it creates a circle which ultimately connects to inner divinity.
  • Relates to the Sun which is also the source of energy.
  • It also signifies the signal of Lord Vishnu's Sudarshan Chakra
  • Relates to the sign of wealth.
  • Decreases diseases, sorrow and brings happiness and peace.

Uses of Swastik in home

Owing to its value and symbolic importance, "Swastika" is used by people of various religions in India and abroad at many places, occasions, events and functions.

  • It's made on the earthen pots or Kalasha used in spiritual, marriage and other ceremonies of traditional importance.
  • It is made on the walls at the entrance of the house.
  • Used in homes, business and other workplaces.
  • Mostly used at places of worship like temples, ashrams or during religious gatherings.
  • Used as printed forms in various materials.
  • Made during pooja and all Indian festivals like Diwali, Raksha Bandhan, major worship ceremonies, Ganeshotsava, Janmashtami, Shivratri and more.
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