Buddhas from different minerals and. Eight noble symbols of Buddhism. Ashtamangala. The mysterious properties of jade stone

There are a huge number of different minerals in the world, and jadeite occupies a rather important place in this list. It began to be mined long before our era, people initially made tools and hunting tools from it, later the beauty and fragility of the stone contributed to the creation of jewelry from it. A special attitude to jadeite has been preserved in China, where it is considered a truly sacred stone, a large statue of Buddha was made from it, which already speaks of the special significance of the mineral for this people. .

It is believed that the mineral jadeite gives good health and longevity.

If we talk about its qualities and properties, then you should know that:

1. This type of fossil belongs to the class of silicates. It is a complex compound of aluminum and sodium.
2. The mineral is very similar to jade, so until recently they were united under one common name - jade. Nevertheless, there are differences between them, and significant ones. Jadeite is a rarer and therefore more valuable mineral, and it is also much harder and stronger than jade.
3. The most valuable and expensive type of this stone is jadeite imperial. It has a rich emerald tone, sometimes lighter shades are found, but its color density, a certain brilliance and even mother-of-pearl remain characteristic. This view can be transparent or translucent.
4. This rock is formed under the influence of low temperatures and high pressure in the bowels of our planet. This species belongs to igneous and metamorphic groups. In other words, there is a variety that includes not only 2 main components (sodium and aluminum), but also other impurities of minerals and gases that accumulate in certain soil layers. Often these impurities can be present in large quantities and even replace either aluminum or sodium. For example, sodium can be replaced by manganese, calcium. Iron, chromium and magnesium can be found instead of aluminum. The main component plays an important role and determines the type of mineral and, accordingly, its value.

Physical properties of stone

So, jadeite stone is a dense granular rock, which usually contains a small amount of impurities. Its density is quite high, in the range of 6.5-7 units on the Mohs scale. The shiny surface refers to glass, the density is in the range of 3-3.5 g / cm³, in its structure it can be from transparent to a dense background that does not have translucence. In nature, the mineral is mainly found, the color palette of which varies from light green to dark emerald hue.

The color is directly affected by the chemical properties of jadeite, the green color is provided by the presence of chromium, but lighter and diluted tones are obtained due to the admixture of iron.

Jade stone properties (video)

Locations of the mineral

This species can safely be called rare. Its largest mining sites today are in Myanmar, China, Kazakhstan, Japan, USA, Mexico and Russia.

In Russia, the richest place for the extraction of this gemstone is the Polar Urals, as well as the Krasnoyarsk Territory. At each location, different types of minerals can be mined, but, as a rule, according to certain geological features of the area, the rock of this mineral will have a certain type and belong to a specific group. It is probably impossible to say that a more valuable and pure stone is mined in one place or another, since each of them has its own characteristics and properties, which are valued primarily by jewelers.

It is believed that the mineral jadeite gives good health and longevity.

The main properties of jadeite

The main properties of jadeite are its density and viscosity, which is very important when finishing and processing stone. First of all, it is worth considering its main application in jewelry art. Due to the unusual and bright color of this mineral, its diversity and good physical characteristics, it is used to make various types of jewelry. It can be bracelets, necklaces, beads, rings, earrings and even watches. These green pebbles are masterfully decorated with products of extraordinary beauty, which are in great demand. For example, in China, representatives of the upper class without fail wear jadeite jewelry on their bodies, rosaries and various figures are made from it. In every house in the Land of the Rising Sun there are miniature Buddha figurines made of this stone.

Gallery: jade stone (30 photos)

If you look at the use of a mineral in jewelry from a professional point of view, it is useful to know that it is the transparent mineral that is considered the most expensive and valuable. Jewelers have a specific table and requirements for the density, transparency, brilliance and shades of this stone.

There are 3 main, most popular types of this stone:

1. Imperial, exclusively gemstone. Distinguished by its rich color in emerald tone. The most common is a transparent or translucent specimen.
2. Utilities. This is an ornamental stone, transparency is either absent or very low. The color is most often grayish green or dark green.
3. Cammercial. They can be used both for high-value crafts and for making jewelry. Its color palette ranges from dark gray to deep green.

The value of this material was revealed in antiquity. The Aztec tribes were the first to appreciate it on a par with gold, exchanging it with the conquistadors.

The main properties of jadeite are its density and viscosity, which is very important when finishing and processing stone.

Medicinal properties

It is impossible not to note the healing properties of the stone, since its name carries precisely this information. Falling from Central America into the hands of the Spaniards, it acquired its modern name. In literal translation from Spanish, it means "lumbar stone", "stone from colic", "pain reliever". Since ancient times, the glory of healing from kidney diseases has been attached to this stone. Since renal colic is localized precisely in the lumbar region, hence the consonant names. It is noted that it is the wearing of jade products that has a great influence on the health of the kidneys.

1. Violation of blood pressure.
2. Diseases of the cardiovascular system.
3. Spinal problems, salt deposits and arthritis.
4. Disorders of the gastrointestinal tract.
5. Headaches and insomnia.

For various diseases, it is recommended to wear certain types of jewelry. For example, in order to get rid of a headache, it is best to wear earrings; for men, an amulet or a talisman around the neck is suitable. To restore the work of blood vessels, a bracelet on the wrist is best.

The mysterious properties of jade stone

It is believed that there are magical properties of jadeite stone. In ancient times, it was believed that with its help you can influence the weather.

Today, this magical gem is used in oriental types of non-traditional therapy, namely in stone therapy. Massage is performed with smooth, polished and heated stones, believing that at the same time they are able to cleanse the body of negative energy and various diseases. The stone is quite resistant to temperature changes, and therefore it is ideal for such procedures. Jadeite saunas are incredibly popular today.. In Eastern culture, it symbolizes longevity and eternal youth.

But the ancient magicians attributed to him the ability to unite the hearts of lovers, 2 identical amulets were made for the newlyweds, which they put on on the day of their engagement. In addition, talismans with jadeite were worn to protect against evil energy and enemies. Merchants asked craftsmen to create bracelets with this stone, believing that it would increase profits and attract good luck.

Astrologers advise to buy it, since according to the horoscope it suits almost all signs of the zodiac, but it carries its own message for everyone. It is worth knowing for whom this product is suitable, and for whom it is better to refrain from contact with it. So, It will have the most favorable effect on such signs:

1. Virgo. Promotes the acquisition of inner strength and peace. Develops intuition and improves relationships with loved ones.
2. Scales. It will help overcome indecision and strengthen willpower.
3. A lion. For this sign, the stone carries the greatest positive energy, contributing to good luck and the accumulation of internal forces.
4. Fish- get rid of apathy and gain the ability to enjoy life for real.

For other signs, the mineral carries more neutral information.

stone care

Like any gemstone, jade requires proper care and storage. They take care of him in the same way as for jade. It is worth saying that no stone can be worn on the body for too long, as it has the ability to accumulate negative energy in itself.

To purify the mineral, it is enough to remove it from yourself and put it under running water or, if the type of stone allows, immerse it in a container with salt for a certain time.

Basic rules for care:

1. Do not subject to mechanical stress.
2. Avoid sudden changes in temperature. True, this does not apply to all varieties of jadeite.
3. Do not use chemicals when cleaning.

How to determine the authenticity of a jadeite stone (video)

To remove dirt and dust, the product is washed in soapy water, then rinsed under running water, and then wiped dry with a soft cloth.

Attention, only TODAY!

Built in 1056 in Ying County, China's Shanxi Province, the world's oldest and tallest multi-storey wooden structure has stood the test of time.

Built in the traditional way without nails, the wooden pagoda has withstood numerous earthquakes, lightning strikes, and wars for centuries, and has survived to this day. At the same time, the ancient buildings surrounding the tower collapsed.

The longevity of the pagoda is attributed by some to the sacred relics found inside.

When the 67-meter tower was being renovated in 1974, an unusual find indicated the probable reason for the construction and the significance of this ancient structure.

Two teeth were discovered that belonged to Buddha Shakyamuni, who lived about 2500 years ago. There are only seven such relics in the world.

Considering that many priceless ancient treasures were destroyed during Mao Zedong's (1966–1976) Cultural Revolution, it is surprising that these Buddha's teeth were not confiscated.

Both teeth were sent to a laboratory led by a global partner of the American Gem Society in Antwerp, Belgium. A panel of experts concluded that the substance found in one of the teeth is of unearthly origin.

This substance is known as "sarira" and is found in the ashes of cremated Buddhist spiritual teachers because it is not destroyed in the cremator. This shiny substance comes in different colors and resembles pearls or glass stones.

Dr. Gao Bing, from the team of experts, first placed the relic in water and then tried to draw lines on it with a pencil. But there were no traces of the pencil.

Dr. Gao then dipped the pencil into the ink and continued to draw lines. Under the microscope, he saw many small spherical pearls under the ink lines.

When the sarira is magnified 1000 times with the help of an electron microscope, it seems that the figures of four small Buddhas are visible, sitting around a large Buddha.

Laboratory tests also showed unusual results.

Although the tooth has been determined to be 2,500 years old, the numerous pieces of sarira in the tooth are three billion years old.

To study the sarira, a thermal conductivity meter was used. The results showed an unusually high thermal conductivity of 1000-2600 W/(m·K).

Diamond has the highest thermal conductivity of 1000 W/(m K). Sarira, found in the tooth of the Buddha, has a greater thermal conductivity than diamond.

The relic was also tested under a pressure of 2000 tons, but the sarira remained intact, the microstructure of the material was not disturbed.

The team of experts confirmed that sarira is the toughest material ever found on Earth, that it is "indestructible" and cannot be manufactured with modern equipment.

More than 50 years ago, a new type of diamond with a hexagonal structure was discovered in a meteorite that fell in northern Arizona, later named lonsdaleite in honor of the crystallographer Dame Kathleen Lonsdale.

Through a series of analyzes, Dr. Gao found that the structure of the sarira found in the tooth of the Buddha is similar to that of lonsdaleite. But this claim remains unverified and requires further investigation.

Sarira was subjected to infrared radiation. The study confirmed that the substance is not artificial. It was determined that sarira consists of 98.07% carbon, and the rest includes sulfur, zinc, antimony and tellurium.

“It's just incredible! Incredible!- Taiwanese site Aboluowang quotes Dr. Gao. - These relics are priceless treasures!”

When the scientist was asked to make an estimate of the monetary value, Gao stated that there was no way to determine the true price. He noted that each spherical sarira can cost up to $25 million.

Greetings, dear readers!

Today we will talk about what kind of buddhas are. We have already mentioned that in Buddhism there is no one main god, i.e. the Buddha himself can be expressed in several different forms and manifestations. The history of Eastern teachings has over three thousand incarnations.

Of course, we cannot talk about so many deities in one article, so let's find out about the most revered and famous.

What are bodhisattvas

In Buddhism, there is such a thing as Addi Buddha, or the Primordial Buddha. It is the symbol of all buddhas and bodhisattvas, the personification of the enlightened mind. Different schools have different Addi Buddhas. Bodhisattva means "enlightened one". For example, Gautama Buddha considered himself a Bodhisattva.

How do you become a bodhisattva? There are ten stages in the spiritual development of the Buddhist teaching. Having reached the seventh stage, one can become a Bodhisattva and free oneself from constant rebirths. However, this fact does not mean complete liberation from karmic dependence.

There are eight Bodhisattvas in total. It was they who became the followers of Gautama and adopted the teachings of the Mahayana. The most important of them are Avalokiteshvara, Manjushri and, which means mercy, wisdom, the strength of all the buddhas. These three bodhisattvas are the protectors of Shakyamuni.

Avalokiteshvara is the embodiment of compassion. One of its most important attributes are the mantra "om mani padme hum" and a peacock tail fan. considered the incarnation of Avalokiteshvara.

Manjushri is the Mahayana expression of wisdom. Manjushri was a companion of Gautama Buddha.

Vajrapani is the protector of the Buddha, he personifies the power of enlightened deities.

There are also female bodhisattvas, for example, the savior of female souls, symbolizes compassion.

There are also other Addi-Buddhas, such as:

– Samantabhadra and Samantabhadri, the wife of Samantabhadra, means that the human mind is open to everything new, that its state is initially empty, in the sense that it is devoid of any concepts, stereotypes, attachments.

- Vajradhara, or Vajra Holder - absolute enlightenment and knowledge in the Vajrayana. The Vajra is a mystical Indian instrument belonging to the god of war, Indra; it symbolizes strength and eternity.

- - one of the enlightened in the Vajrayana, is a symbol of purification and purity.

- Prajnaparamita is the female image of Addi Buddha in Mahayana, absolute wisdom.

- Padmasambhava, or "born in a lotus" - a teacher of Tantrism, called in Tibetan Buddhism the second Buddha. He sits in a lotus, holding a vajra in one hand and a begging bowl in the other. Shakyanmuni himself informed his disciples that a second Buddha would appear in a lotus flower, who would be more enlightened than himself. Thus Padmasambhava came into the world.

Mandala of the Five Buddhas

In the tradition of the Mahayana school, there is a Mandala of the Five Buddhas, which personifies the five moments of Addi-Buddha. In this mandala, everyone has their own place and purpose. For example, in Nepal, images of this mandala can be seen in Buddhist temples and homes. Let's take a closer look at how it is formed.

• In the center of it sits Vairochana, or illustrious. He is the head of all buddhas. It is white, because. white means absolute. In Japan, Vairochana is very popular. His animal is the lion, which is associated with truth.
• Akshobhya, or the Enlightened One is in the east. Its color is blue. He is the head of the Vajra family. Its emblem is an elephant, which represents power and strength.
• Ratnasambhava, or giver of jewels, is located in the south. It is depicted in yellow and symbolizes the fulfillment of desires: both tangible and intangible. Ratnasambhava is the head of the Jewel family.
• Amoghasiddhi occupies the north side. His body is green and his emblem is a double vajra. He is the head of the Karma family.
• Amitabha represents the west; its color is red. This is the oldest and most revered of the Buddhas. His emblem is the lotus and he is the head of the lotus family, in which there are many famous bodhisattvas, such as Avalokiteshvara. It signifies spiritual growth. Another form of Amitabha is Amitayus, or "infinite life." Amitabha, as a rule, is depicted in monastic robes, and Amitayus is in luxurious clothes and holds a vessel of longevity.

Some of the revered and significant Buddhist deities:

Milarepa Shepa Dorje is a famous yogi, poet and one of the founders of the Kagyu school. His years of life are 1040 - 1123.

Je Tsongkhapa (1357 to 1419) was a Tibetan Buddhist reformer who founded the Gelug school. Gelug is the largest school of Tibetan Buddhism. When Tsongkhapa was a young boy, Shakyamuni predicted that he would influence the spread of the Dharma teachings.

In addition to various aspects of the Buddha in Buddhism, there are yidams, i.e. images and deities of the state of enlightenment. Yidams are actively used during tantric practices. One of the main goals of the yidams is to protect the teachings of the Dharma.

There are different yidams: angry, peaceful, male, female, paired. For example, Vajrakilaya is the main angry deity in Tibetan Buddhism. It symbolizes the removal of obstacles as you walk towards a goal.

Poses and their meanings

There are many images and figurines of the Buddha, each of which stands for certain things.

One of the most famous species is the Meditating Buddha. He sits in a lotus or half lotus position, his hands are joined palms up. It is a symbol of finding harmony and peace of mind.

The protecting Buddha is in the lotus or half-lotus position, the right hand is turned outward and raised up, and the left lies on the knee. It protects against fear and negative emotions.

The Buddha of Enlightenment sits in the lotus position with his right hand pointing towards the ground and his left hand palm up. This image is very popular in Thailand.

The Laughing Buddha, or Hotei, is a deity symbolizing the acquisition of joy and good fortune. An alms bowl is often depicted next to it. Hotei is a talisman that brings wealth.

Conclusion

Here our story is coming to an end - today we tried to understand the various images of the Buddha, as well as learn about the most important bodhisattvas.

This symbol represents the protection of the mind from the sultry heat of obscurations, and also protects from suffering. A symbol of good deeds performed in order to protect living beings from diseases, harmful forces, obstacles, as well as the suffering of the three lower and three higher worlds. Just as an ordinary umbrella protects from rain and heat, so a precious umbrella grants protection from adversity and adversity of samsara.

The umbrella is a traditional symbol of noble birth and protection. Its shadow protects from the scorching sun, its coolness symbolizes protection from the painful heat of suffering, desire, obstacles, diseases and harmful forces. As a symbol of noble origin and special wealth, an umbrella indicates a position in society: the more umbrellas are carried around, the higher the status. Traditionally, thirteen umbrellas corresponded to the status of a king, and early Buddhism in India borrowed this number as a symbol of the supreme position of the Buddha - the "universal monarch" or Chakravartin. Thirteen umbrella-shaped wheels connect to form conical spiers of stupas that mark major events in the life of the Buddha or contain his relics.

The overhead umbrella naturally signifies fame and respect, which led to its becoming a significant symbol in early Buddhist art. A precious white umbrella was once presented to the Buddha by the lord of the gods, Mahadeva, as an ornament for his head. Symbolizes protection from diseases, evil spirits and suffering in this and future lives. On a spiritual level, it dispels anger, passion, pride, envy and dullness.

According to another version, it is believed that the Naga king brought the umbrella decorated with precious stones to the Buddha. The umbrella was made of gold, and the stones around its edges exuded nectar. Melodious bells hung from it, and the handle was made of sapphire. Often seen in images is a large white umbrella of fine workmanship over the Buddha's head, and this large white umbrella later evolved into the Vajrayana goddess Dukar. The "White Umbrella" is one of the most complex Vajrayana yidams - a thousand-armed, thousand-legged, thousand-headed and looking with "thousands of millions" of eyes. Her two-armed form is often depicted holding a white umbrella over a seated Buddha. A typical Buddhism umbrella consists of a long white or red sandalwood handle or shaft topped with a small golden lotus, a vase and a precious tip. Its domed body is covered in white or yellow silk and folds of silk fringe fringe the edges along with colorful silk pendants and frills. Sometimes the umbrella is also adorned with peacock feathers, hanging necklaces of gemstones, and yak tail pendants.

A ceremonial silk umbrella is usually just under a meter and a half in diameter, allowing it to be held at least a meter above your head. Square or octagonal umbrellas are also often found, and large yellow or red umbrellas are often hung over the throne of the chief lama, as well as over the image of the central yidam in monasteries and temples. A white or yellow silk umbrella is a symbol of spiritual dominion while a peacock feather umbrella more often represents worldly power. The dome of the umbrella symbolizes wisdom, and its dangling silk frills represent various methods of compassion or skillful means. The white umbrella that was offered to the Buddha most symbolizes his ability to protect all beings from delusions and fears.

2. Goldfish

They are called so because of the radiance emanating from the scales, similar to the sheen of gold. Usually, fish is an ornament and a sign of the well-being of rivers and lakes. So these fish personify full-fledged wealth. A symbol of deliverance from suffering and the achievement of spiritual liberation. Just as a fish swims in water without any barriers, so a person who has attained enlightenment knows no boundaries and obstacles.

In Sanskrit, the two fishes are known as matsyayungma, which means "pair of fishes." This indicates their origin from the symbol of the two sacred rivers of India: the Ganges and the Yamuna. Metaphorically, these rivers represent solar and lunar channels or psychic nerves (nadis) that start from the nostrils and carry the intermittent rhythms of breath or prana.

In Buddhism, golden fish represent happiness and since they have complete freedom of movement in the water. They are also fertile and can reproduce very quickly. freedom from caste restrictions easy to mix touch

Fish often swim in pairs, and in China, a pair of fish symbolize marital unity and fidelity. Two golden fish, female and male, are usually depicted symmetrically and in the form of a carp with graceful tails, fins and gills, and long antennae starting from the upper jaw. Carps are traditionally regarded as the holy fish of the east because of their elegant beauty, size and longevity, as well as being associated with certain benevolent deities. Golden fish are an attribute of the Indian mahasiddha Tilopa, and symbolize his realization as well as his ability to free people from the ocean of cyclic existence - Samsara. According to one version, a pair of golden fish was presented to the Buddha by the god Vishnu as an ornament for his eyes. Symbolizes freedom from the fear of drowning in the ocean of suffering and spiritual liberation.

3. Precious Vase

A precious vessel that fulfills all desires was presented to the Buddha by the god Shadana as an ornament for his throat. It symbolizes the fulfillment of all desires, both temporary (gaining longevity, wealth and merit), and the highest - gaining liberation and Enlightenment. The storehouse of all realizations, which is the basis of priceless virtues and pure virtues.

A symbol of long life, wealth and prosperity. The vase of jewels is mainly the symbol of some yidams of wealth such as Dzambhala, Vaishravana and Vasudhara, it is their attribute and is usually placed at their feet. One form of the Goddess of Wealth, Vasudhara, stands on a pair of horizontal jeweled vases from which an endless stream of gems pours out.

As a sacred "vase of abundance" (Tib. bumpa dzangpo), it has the property of spontaneous manifestation: no matter how many jewels are taken from the vase, it remains invariably full. A typical Tibetan jewel vase is depicted as an ornate gold vase and a lotus petal motif encircling its various parts. One wish-fulfilling jewel or a group of three jewels crowns its upper edge as a symbol of Buddha, Dharma and Sangha. The great jeweled vase, as described in the Mandala offering, is made of gold and adorned with numerous precious stones.

A silk scarf from the world of the gods is tied around her neck, and the top is sealed with a wish-granting tree. The roots of this tree exude the concentrated water of longevity, miraculously creating all kinds of wealth. Sealed jewel vases may be placed or buried in sacred places on earth, such as mountain passes, pilgrimage sites, springs, rivers, and oceans. In this case, their function is to spread abundance and appease the spirits that dwell there.

4. Lotus

A white lotus flower with a thousand petals was given to the Buddha by the god Kama as an ornament for his tongue. It symbolizes the purity of the teachings and the purification of the body, speech and mind, leading to Enlightenment.

Like a lotus flower born from the dirt, unstained, so here, it personifies non-attachment to samsara, although it resides in it. In Buddhism, it is a traditional symbol of purity. The lotus is born in muddy swamp water, but is born unstained and pure.

Similarly, beings born in one of the worlds of samsara, but sincerely practicing the noble teachings of the Buddha, are able to get rid of defilements over time. It represents the blossoming of noble qualities that manifest absolutely independently of the imperfections of cyclic existence. The lotus on which the Buddha aspects sit or stand represents their sacred origin. They spontaneously manifest, are innately perfect and absolutely pure in body, speech and mind. These aspects appear in cyclic existence, but are not completely polluted by its imperfections, emotional hindrances, and mental veils. The lotus is the emblem of Amitaba, the red Buddha of the west and "head of the lotus or padma family."

Amitaba's qualities are associated with the redness of fire, vital fluids, evening twilight, the summer season, and the transformation of passion into discriminating wisdom. Amitaba's wife is Pandara and the red lotus is her attribute. The main bodhisattva of Amitaba is Padmapani Avalokiteshvara - "Lotus Holder" - the bodhisattva of great compassion. A lotus in Buddhism usually consists of four, eight, sixteen, twenty-four, thirty-two, sixty-four, one hundred or one thousand petals. These numbers are symbolically related to the inner lotuses or chakras of the subtle body, as well as to the number of components of the mandala. As an attribute held in the hand, the lotus is usually pink or light red with eight or sixteen petals.

Lotus flowers can also be white, yellow, gold, blue and black. White Tara, for example, holds a sixteen-petalled white utpala lotus in her hands. The yellow or golden lotus is commonly known as padma, while the more common red or pink lotus is called kamala. The Sanskrit term utpala is especially associated with the blue or black "night lotus", but its Tibetan equivalent under the same name can refer to any lotus color.

5. White shell, with a curl turned to the right

A white shell, twisted clockwise, was presented to the Buddha by the god Indra as an ornament for his ears. It symbolizes the sound of the Buddha's Teachings, spreading freely everywhere and awakening students from the sleep of ignorance.

This shell is very rare. It is believed that the mollusk acquires it after five continuous births as an ordinary mollusk. The sound of the conch represents the harmonious voice of the Dharma. A symbol of the spread of the teachings of the Buddha and awakening from the sleep of ignorance. Just as the sound of a conch shell flies freely in all directions, so the Buddha's teaching spreads everywhere, awakening sentient beings from the sleep of ignorance.

The white shell, whose spiral unfolds clockwise, is a well-known Indian attribute of the heroic gods, whose mighty shells proclaimed their courage and victory in war. Vishnu's fire-spewing conch was called Panchajanya, which means "possessing control over the five types of beings." Arjuna's shell was known as Devadatta, which means "God-given" and its triumphant voice will instill fear in the enemy. The shell is akin to a modern horn as a battle trumpet, as an emblem of strength, power and supremacy. It is believed that her auspicious voice casts out evil spirits, deflects natural disasters and scares away harmful creatures.

Vishnu's fiery conch (Panchajanya) is in his upper left hand and corresponds to the wheel or chakra in his upper right hand. The first five of the ten avatars of Vishnu hold these two attributes in their hands. In the Hindu tradition, the Buddha is considered the ninth of Vishnu's ten incarnations. When the great gods of heaven Indra and Brahma are usually depicted before the throne of the Buddha, they usually hold Vishnu's attributes - a conch and a wheel - which is probably not a mere coincidence. Vishnu is also commonly known as the "great man" (Skt. mahapurusha) or the "god of the right hand" (Skt. dakshinadeva). The same can be applied to the Buddha, with his hair curling to the right and his body marked with thirty-two signs of auspicious birth (Skt. mahapurusha-lakshana). Early Hindus classified shells by gender, thicker convex shells were considered masculine or purusha and thinner graceful shells were considered feminine or shankhini.

The Hindu division into four castes also found its way to shells: smooth white shells corresponded to the caste of Brahmin priests, red ones - to warrior Kshatriyas, zherty - Vaishya merchants, and dull gray - simple worker Shudras. There was another division according to the type of spiral. Ordinary shells that twisted to the left were called vamavarta, and rarer ones twisted to the right - dakshinavarta - and were considered the most suitable for use in rituals. The top of the shell is sawn off to form a mouthpiece and the wind spirals in a right-handed spiral to create a sound that symbolizes the true ("right-handed") proclamation of the Dharma. Brahminism adopted the heroic shell as a ritual symbol of religious supremacy. The early Buddhists similarly adopted this symbol as an emblem of the excellence of the Buddha's teachings. Here the conch symbolizes fearlessness in proclaiming the truth of the Dharma and his call to wake up and work for the benefit of others. One of the thirty-two symbols of the Buddha's body is his deep and resonant voice, reminiscent of the voice of a shell, which spreads in all ten directions of space. In iconography, this sign is depicted by three shell-shaped curved lines on his throat.

As one of the eight auspicious symbols, the shell is usually turned vertically, often with a ribbon passed over its lower edge. The right direction of the spiral is indicated by a bend and an inlet pointing to the right. The sink can also be turned horizontally, in which case aromatic liquids or oils will be inside. As an attribute that is held in the hand and symbolizes the proclamation of the teachings of the Buddha, as one of the aspects of speech, it can usually be found in the left hand - the hand of "wisdom".

6. Endless knot

Just as this knot has no end, so this symbol represents the complete acquisition of the Immeasurable Virtues and the Five kinds of primordial Wisdom. A symbol of the interdependence of all phenomena and living beings in the universe. The Sanskrit term "shrivatsa" means "beloved Sri". Sri is the goddess Lakshmi, the wife of Vishnu, and shrivatsa is an auspicious sign that adorns Vishnu's chest. The distinctive feature of Lakshmi on Vishnu's chest corresponds to the fidelity of his heart to his wife, and since Lakshmi is the goddess of wealth and auspicious fate, shrivatsa naturally becomes an auspicious symbol. This is usually either a triangular curl or a diamond turned upwards, which closes at four opposite angles. Krishna, the eighth reincarnation of Vishnu, also has a shrivatsu in the center of his chest. This curl of hair has another name - nandyavarta - which means "curl of happiness", in which case its shape resembles a swastika or a Greek hook-shaped cross (gammadion).

In Indian and Chinese images, the Buddha often has a swastika in the center of his chest, which symbolizes his enlightened mind. Another possible variation of the swastika and the endless knot comes from the S-shaped markings on the cobra's hood. This in turn gave rise to the nagayantra, where two or more intertwined snakes form an endless knot or yantra. In its final development to the Buddhist geometric symbol of the eternal knot or "diagram of happiness", which "revolves like a swastika", this symbol can be correlated with the shrivatsa swastika, since both symbols were used in early Indian traditions.

As a symbol of the Buddha, the endless knot represents his infinite wisdom and compassion. As a symbol of the Buddha's teachings, it represents the continuity of the twelve links of dependent origination that underlie cyclic existence.

In one of the descriptions, you can find the following words: God Ganesha gave Buddha an endless knot as an ornament for his heart. It symbolizes the changeable nature of time, the impermanence and interconnection of all things, as well as the unity of compassion and wisdom.

7. Banner of Victory

The victorious banner was presented to the Buddha by the god Krishna as an ornament for his body. This cylindrical multi-tiered figure symbolizes the victory of the teachings of the Buddha over ignorance and death.

The banner means victory over the enemy and obstacles, personifies victory over demons, mara and adherents of false views. The symbol of the victory of the teachings of the Buddha over death, ignorance, as well as over everything harmful and harmful in this world.

The Sanskrit word dhvaja means banner, flag or emblem, and was originally a battle banner in ancient Indian martial arts. This banner adorned the back of a great warrior's chariot and was mounted behind a great or royal umbrella. Each flag had a certain emblem of a king or a warrior. Krishna's chariot, for example, was adorned with a garuda flag, and Arjuna's with a monkey flag. But most often dhvaja was the emblem of Shiva, the great god of death and destruction, whose banner was adorned with a trident. This trident symbolized the victory of Shiva over the three worlds or "three cities" located on the earth, above the earth and below it. In Indian military art, the army banner often took on terrifying forms to instill fear in the enemy. It could be, for example, the head impaled on a stake and the skin of an enemy or victim flayed. Often the heads and skins of ferocious animals were used, in particular the tiger, crocodile, wolf and bull. And also on the banner were placed large images of other fearsome creatures such as the scorpion, snake, vulture, crow and garuda.

The crocodile-headed banner or the so-called makaradhvaja was the emblem of Kamadeva, the Vedic god of love and desire. As a "tempter" or "deceiver", Kamadeva can be considered the Hindu counterpart of Mara, "evil incarnate", who tried to prevent the Buddha from attaining enlightenment.

In early Buddhism, the image of Mara as a demonic creator of obstacles to spiritual progress was represented by a group of four maras or "evil influences". The idea of ​​these four maras was originally based on the four divisions of Mara's army: infantry, cavalry, elephants and chariots. The first of these four maras is the demon of the five accumulations of personality (skandha mara). The second is the demon of disturbing emotions (klesha mara). The third is the demon of death (mrityu mara). And the fourth Mara - "the son of God" (devaputra mara) - the demon of desire and temptation. It is this fourth Mara that corresponds to Kamadeva, "the king of the gods of the highest level of the desire realm." The Buddha is said to have transcended the veils of Kamadeva's sensual desires in the twilight before Enlightenment by meditating on the "four limitless qualities": compassion, love, participatory joy, and equanimity. At dawn, he overcame the Mara of accumulations and the Mara of disturbing emotions. But only three months before the end of his life, he managed to defeat the mara of death through the strength of his fearless determination to enter the final nirvana (parinirvana). Early Buddhists adopted the crocodile-headed Kamadeva symbol as a symbol of the Buddha's victory over the four maras. Usually four such banners were installed in the main directions around the Enlightenment Stupa. Similarly, the gods decided to plant a victory flag on the top of Mount Meru to glorify the Buddha as the "victor" who defeated the armies of Mara.

This "banner of victory in ten directions" has a frame of precious stone, a top with a moon and a sun, and a hanging triple flag of three multi-colored silks, decorated with "three victorious harmonious beings." In the Tibetan tradition, the eleven variations of the banner of victory correspond to the eleven specific methods of overcoming the veils. Many variants of the banner are found on the roofs of temples and monasteries: four flags are usually placed at the corners of the roof, symbolizing the victory of the Buddha over the four maras.

The most traditional type of banner is a cylindrical banner on a long wooden pole. The top of the banner follows the shape of a small white umbrella, and on its top is a wish-granting jewel. This domed umbrella is rimmed with an ornate gold cross, with makara tails at the ends, from which hang waves of a yellow or white silk scarf. The cylindrical base of the banner is draped with several vertical layers of multicolored silk folds and gemstone pendants. The base is decorated with a wavy silk apron with flowing ribbons. The upper part is decorated with a tiger skin rim, symbolizing the Buddha's victory over anger and aggression. Many aspects hold the banner of victory in their hands, in particular those associated with wealth and power. For example, Vaishravana, the great King and protector of the North.

8. Wheel of Dharma

> The golden wheel of teaching with a thousand spokes was given to Buddha by Brahma as an ornament for his feet. It became known as the Wheel of Dharma. Its rotation symbolizes the preaching of the Teachings of the Buddha, bringing liberation to all living beings.

This is the wheel of Chakravartin, the Lord of the world, as it is his vehicle, with eight sharp spokes that cut through obstacles on the way, so this symbol represents the means of progress towards Enlightenment. The needle means Wisdom, experience, concentration, the axis - morality. Also three types of Higher Education, Three Baskets of Teaching. The eight spokes signify the Eightfold Path.

The eight spokes of the wheel symbolize the "noble eightfold path" of Buddha Shakyamuni:

1. Correct view.
2. Correct thinking.
3. Correct speech.
4. Correct behaviour.
5. Right way of life.
6. Correct effort.
7. Correct awareness.
8. Correct contemplation.

The wheel is an early Indian solar symbol of sovereignty, protection and creation. The earliest finds with this symbol date back to the 25th century. BC. The wheel or chakra is the main attribute of the Vedic god of protection Vishnu, his fierce wheels or disks with six spokes (sudarshan chakra) symbolize the wheel of the manifested universe. The wheel represents movement, duration and change, turning constantly, like the revolving ball of heaven. As a weapon, the rimless chakra had six, eight, twelve or eighteen sharply sharpened blades. It could be thrown like a disc or swung on a rope.

Buddhism borrowed the wheel as the main symbol of the “wheel-turning” Chakravartin, but the wheel itself became the “wheel of dharma” dharmachakra (Tib. chokyi korlo), which literally means “wheel of transformation” or spiritual change. The rapid movement of the wheel corresponds to the rapid spiritual transformation that the Buddha's teaching reveals. The juxtaposition of the wheel of the Buddha and the rotating tool of the Chakravartin corresponds to the ability of the teaching to cut off all obstacles and illusions.

The Buddha's first teaching at the Deer Park in Sarnath, where he taught the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, is known as "the first turning of the wheel of Dharma". His subsequent famous teachings in Rajgir and Shravasti are known as the second and third turnings of the wheel of Dharma. The three components of the wheel - hub, spokes and rim - correspond to the three aspects of Buddhist teachings on moral discipline (vinaya), wisdom (abidharma) and concentration (sutra). The central hub represents the moral discipline that centers and stabilizes the mind. The pointed needles represent wisdom or discriminating awareness that cuts off ignorance.

The rim corresponds to the meditative concentration that makes possible and accomplishes the movement of the wheel. The eight-spoked wheel symbolizes the Noble Eightfold Path, as well as the spread of these teachings in the eight directions. The wheel as an auspicious symbol is described as being made of pure gold. This gold is mined in the Jambud River of our continent - Jambudvipa. Traditionally, the wheel is depicted with eight vajra-like spokes and a central hub with three or four "swirls of joy" that spin outward like the Chinese yin-yang symbol. If there are three curls in the central hub, then they correspond to the Three Jewels - Buddha, Dharma, Sangha, as well as victory over the three poisons of the mind - ignorance, desire and anger.

When four scrolls are depicted, they are usually painted in different colors corresponding to the four directions and elements, and also symbolize the teachings of the Buddha on the Four Noble Truths. The rim of the wheel may be depicted as an ordinary round ring, often with small round gold ornaments protruding in eight directions. Sometimes he is depicted inside an ornate pear-shaped ring of gold and precious stones. A silk ribbon often drapes the rim of the wheel, and its bottom usually rests on a small lotus flower.