It is considered that Buddhist jewelry gives the wearer a sense of liveliness, happiness and insight into one’s true nature. There is a wide variety of Buddhist jewelry each with its own uniqueness. Buddhist jewelry is usually made of silver and copper although in some cases gold is also used. The eight auspicious symbols of Buddhism, translated from the Sanskrit ‘Ashtamangala’, are very popular in Tibet and are used for Buddhist jewelry.
Buddha was mostly represented by the Eight-Spoked Wheel and the Bodhi Tree. Other signs were also used in representing him like Buddha’s Footprints, an Empty Throne, a Begging Bowl and a Lion.
The eight auspicious symbols are, however, the following: the Umbrella or parasol, the Golden Fish, the Treasure Vase, the Lotus, the Conch, the Endless Knot, the Victory Banner and the Dharma-Wheel (Dharmachackra). Each of the eight symbols represents one aspect of the teachings of Buddha. Let’s take a look at the significance of each symbol.
The Umbrella or Parasol
The parasol is said to cast a shadow of protection. Just a parasol casts a shadow to protect the bearer from the heat of the sun, the symbolic parasol casts a shadow that protects the bearer from the heat of spiritual suffering. In Tibet, the parasol is associated with royalty. It is a symbol of wealth.
Two Golden Fishes
The two golden fishes are usually depicted standing vertically on their tails with their heads curved toward each other. They represent the two great rivers of India, the Ganga and Yamuna. In Buddhism, these two fishes represent happiness because they have complete freedom in the water.
The Endless Knot
The endless knot represents a series of right angles and intertwined lines with no beginning and no end. It is often related to the endless wisdom of Buddha and is also significant for the interaction of opposing forces leading to their union and harmony in the universe.
The Lotus
As it grows, the lotus rises out of the mud at the bottom of the pond, passes through the water, and rises above the water to bloom. This shows how peace and serenity can be found in any type of environment. The water’s filth represents the evil present in the world.
The Victory Banner
This symbol stands for Buddha’s victory over the universe and his subsequent enlightenment.
The Conch
The conch is a symbol of power and authority. The shell is used as a horn in religious ceremonies to frighten away and banish evil spirits. It stands as a symbol of teachings of Buddha being spread to the world.
The Treasure Vase
The top of the treasure vase has been topped with a jewel symbolizing the fact that it contains treasure. The vase is said to have an endless supply of whatever is stored inside.
The Dharma Wheel
The wheel comes in three parts, the hub which stands for moral discipline, the spokes which are usually 8 in number representing the correct application of wisdom, and the rim which represents concentration.
For those who want to buy authentic Buddhist jewelry at competitive prices, the best way is to make the purchase online. There are many reputed online stores that offer a wide selection of Buddhist jewelry items at reasonable prices. Other than jewelry, they also offer Buddha statues , other religious sculptures, religious books, paintings and much more.
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