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Lotus flowers are thought of as a symbol of awakening and a journey to a better state. This is because the lotus flower starts out stuck in the mud at the bottom of a pond. As it grows the lotus flower seeks the sunlight and heads towards the surface of the water. Once it surfaces, it turns into a beautiful blossom. The lotus slowly emerges from a pond over a three day period and then blooms in the morning until mid-afternoon.
The meaning behind the lotus flower is different amongst cultures, though in fact they share many parallels.
Hinduism and Buddhism
Both Hinduism and Buddhism place importance on the lotus as a symbol of awakening to the spiritual reality of life. The lotus is associated with purity and beauty. Rising above whatever is keeping us down. Emerging from the dark waters to reach sunlight and a higher spiritual plane.
The many different colors of the lotus came to symbolize different aspects of Buddhism.
- The blue lotus is associated with a triumph of the spirit over that of wisdom, intelligence and knowledge.
- The white lotus is known to symbolize Bodhi (being awakened), and represents a state of mental pureness, and that of spiritual perfection. The white lotus is also associated with the pacification of one’s nature.
- The purple lotus is known to be mystic. It can be shown depicted as either an open flower or as a bud. The eight petals of the lotus represent the noble eightfold path; one of the principal teachings of the Buddha.
- The pink lotus is considered the supreme lotus and is considered to be the true lotus of Buddha.
- The red lotus is related to the heart, and is related to love and compassion.
In the Hindu religion the lotus flower meaning is associated with beauty, fertility, prosperity, spirituality, and eternity. The most popular lotus in Hinduism is the white flower.
Many of the gods and goddesses of the Hindu religion are linked to the lotus. It is considered pure and represents a spiritual enlightenment.
Egyptians
The lotus was associated with rebirth for ancient Egyptians. The lotus retracts during the night and emerges fresh when the sun rises the next day. Because this reminded Egyptians of the setting and rising sun the lotus came to symbolize the sun and creation in their culture.
Lotus flower tattoos are also popular for people who have risen beyond a tough time that they have put behind them and are now in a better place. The lotus flower represents their journey from a dark place to a better place. Their lives have improved and they’ve overcome obstacles that stood in the way. The open lotus and the unopened bud are associated with human traits by some.
The most popular Japanese flowers are the lotus flower and peonies and they are often used in Japanese art to compliment koi compositions. The Koi is a symbol of strength. A positive compliment to a lotus flower tattoo design.
It is hoped that you now have a better understanding of the lotus flower.
