The term Swastika emanates from the Sanskrit word swasti = su (good) + asti (being). As a symbol, swastika is a line-design invented by the vedic sages. Its specific geometry is believed to have some relation with certain natural energy fields. It is drawn as a cross with equal arms when all the arms are continued as far again at right angles clockwise. The sublime effects, in terms of the cosmic energy currents superimposed in the unique pattern of swastika, correspond to what the swastika symbolizes auspiciousness, wellbeing. The clockwise - (daksināvarta) direction is of significant importance, as it also happens to be the direction of movement (as we see it on the earth) of the sun, which rises in the east and sets in the west. The four sides of the swastika thus represent the four principal directions.
The symbol of swastika is being used as a holy sign in India since the times immemorial. Scriptural descriptions define it as a divine symbol that encompasses (in coded form) several important meanings and mysterious formulae or signs representing specific energy cycles in the universe. The "Halayudh Kosha" regards it as prominent among the twenty-four symbols of significance in the Indian Culture and states Chaturvinsanti Chinhäntargata Chinha Višesa. The same scripture also refers to it as chatuspatha - four paths emerging symmetrically in four directions from a common origin. The seed-syllable (sounding like "gam" in the Vedic script) of the Ganapati Mantra resembles the swastika. This seed syllable together with the four segments (chatustaya) of the mantra seems to be encapsulated in the swastika symbol.
Valmikiya Ramayana cites the appearance of swastika symbol as that of the bluish line-design seen on the crest of the cobra - king of snakes. This simile indicates a deeper meaning - conveying the importance of swastika in tantra as well. The matrikās special sounds or 'packets' of eternal sonic energy (Nāda) indwelling the cosmos that were realized by the rishis in a state of trance - fundamental importance in the science of tantra and are of mantra. The signs (notations) representing the matrikās are said to be the origin of the syllables of the Vedic Sanskrit script and hence of all the (ancient) languages.
According to Indian Philosophy, the four arms of swastika symbolise the four Vedas, four Varnas, four Ashrams, four Lokas and the four deities - Brahma, Vishnu, Mahesh (Shiva) and Ganesha. Eminent vedic scholar Pt. Ramchandra Shastri further cites that the design of swastika resembles a four petalled lotus (chaturdala kamal) which symbolises the abode of Lord Ganapati and is therefore worshiped in religious ceremonies and also enshrined at the places of worship. Several savants also regard swastika as the symbol of the Kaustubh Mani present on the chest of the embodied-manifestations of God Vishnu.
Om Swasti N-indro Vadhdaśravaḥ, Swasti Naḥ Puṣā Visvavedāḥ | Swasti Nastākśryo-aristanemih, Swasti No Baspatirdadhatu ||
This sacred hymn of the Yajurveda is a swastivācana a prayer, an ardent aspiration, for the highest pod and wellbeing of all beings, of everything, of the whole universe. Chanting of this hymn is an Integral part of initiating every religious sacrament or important familial ceremony in the vedic cultural rituals.
Swastika embodies the spirit of auspiciousness and well being of every individual, society, nation, world and the entire universe. Swastika is and shall continue to be universal significance and reverence.
Great
ReplyDelete