By Yesui Batgerel In the vast tapestry of human history, few symbols stir as much controversy and complexity as the swastika. Originating in the mists of prehistoric times, its uses and symbolisms vary across cultures and continents. At its core, the swastika carries a duality of meanings, representing both peace and prosperity, as well as horror and hatred. Where does the swastika come from? Tracing its genesis back to Mohenjo Daro and Harappa in ancient India, we may encounter the earliest known manifestations of this enigmatic symbol. Yet its journey is beyond the boundaries of a single civilization. From the sacred texts of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, where it symbolizes the eternal cycle of life and the radiant power of the sun, to the nomadic traditions of Tengriism, where it dances across the heavens as the celestial Big Dipper encompassing the cosmic forces of nature, the swastika came to symbolize good fortune and life force overall. The shape of the swastika is said to have originated from the seasonal positions of the seven stars of the Big Dipper in the sky in several ancient religions, including Tengriism – an ancient belief system in Central Asia. The Big Dipper rotates around the North Star throughout the four seasons in a year, forming the swastika pattern (as shown in the image below) and symbolized protection and peace for ancient hunters and travellers far from home. The seven stars of this celestial figure are linked with the concept of Dharma, meaning Natural Law, and are seen as guardians of cosmic harmony even to this day. The Big Dipper is visible throughout the entire year from mid-northern latitudes. Due to the earth’s rotation, and the northern constellations appearing to circle around Polaris, you see it in different positions depending on the season. (Anthony Perkic, 2018) The seven stars of the Big Dipper map on to (correlate with) the seven SaptaRishis. These Rishis are the upholders of Natural Law. Natural Law means Dharma. (Michael Mamas, 2016) Certain writers have also deemed the swastika the emblem of Zeus, of Baal, of the sun, of the sun-god, of the sun-chariot of Agni the fire-god, of Indra the rain-god, of the sky, the sky-god, and finally the deity of all deities, the great God, the Maker and Ruler of the Universe (Thomas Wilson, 1998). However, the authors also mention that they have been “somewhat clouded in obscurity and lost in the antiquity of the subject.” Amidst the fog of historical ambiguity, the truth that shines brightly is that the swastika endures as a timeless symbol with an everlasting “charm or amulet, as a sign of benediction, blessing, long life, good fortune, good luck.” The Swastika’s Dark Turn The swastika, once a symbol of well-being, good fortune, and protection across cultures, underwent a dark transformation during the 20th century, particularly under Nazi Germany. Adolf Hitler’s regime adopted the symbol, exploiting its perceived Aryan origins (a hypothesized race of people who were presumed to be the original speakers of Indo-European languages) as a sign of power and supremacy of “pure Aryan blood,” to serve an ideology of fascism and racial intolerance. Unfortunately, this appropriation forever linked the swastika with oppression, tyranny, and the horrors of genocide during World War II. Hitler strategically employed the swastika as a visual emblem, with the intention to encircle not only Germany but also the whole of Europe (Malcolm Quinn, 1994). However, it is important to understand the deeper cultural significances behind the swastika symbol apart from its adoption by Nazi Germany. Adolf Hitler in Nuremberg (1936) Modern Uses Despite its tainted history during the 20th century, the swastika continues to hold significance in various cultures today, where it retains its ancient meanings of well-being and prosperity. In the Sanskrit tradition, the swastika symbolizes the feet or footprints of the Buddha (see image below). Moreover, its usage extends to modern Tibetan Buddhism in Mongolia, where it is embedded onto clothing as a symbol of auspiciousness, and to China and Japan, symbolizing abundance, prosperity, and longevity. These are just some examples of how the swastika still retains its positive and abundant meaning in different cultures across the world. Footprint of the Buddha. 1st century BCE, Gandhara. (ZenYouMitsu Temple, Setagaya, Tokyo.) China - Shanghai - Gold Buddhas at Longhua Temple (the swastika is embedded on the Buddha’s chest) In Mongolia it is embroidered on clothes, bags, and belts. (Mongolia live, 2016)
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May 2024
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