Page 21 - Handbook of Tibetan Buddhist Symbols

Handbook of Tibetan Buddhist Sy 9/1/10 11:29 AM Page 3

The Eight Auspicious Symbols 3

In Chinese Buddhism these eight symbols in fours, or as a composite group of eight.
represent the eight vital organs of the Bud- When illustrated as a composite group they
dha’s body: (1) the parasol represents his often assume the simulacra shape of a vase.
spleen; (2) the two golden fishes his kidneys; In this form the treasure vase may be omit-
(3) the treasure vase his stomach; (4) the ted, as the other seven symbols embody the
lotus his liver; (5) the conch his gall bladder; symbolic wealth of this vase in their vase-
(6) the endless knot his intestines; (7) the vic- shaped outline. Designs of these eight sym-
tory banner his lungs; (8) the golden wheel bols of good fortune adorn all manner of
his heart. A similar Tibetan tradition identi- sacred and secular Buddhist objects, such as
fies these eight symbols as forming the physi- carved wooden furniture, embellished metal-
cal body of the Buddha, with: (1) the parasol work, ceramics, wall panels, carpets, and
representing his head; (2) the golden fishes silk brocades. They are also drawn upon the
his eyes; (3) the treasure vase his neck; (4) the ground in sprinkled flour or colored pow-
lotus his tongue; (5) the wheel his feet; (6) the ders to welcome visiting religious dignitaries
victory banner his body; (7) the conch his to monastic establishments.
speech; (8) the endless knot his mind.
In Tibetan art the eight auspicious sym-
bols may be depicted individually, in pairs, THE PARASOL
(Skt. chatra, atapatra; Tib. gdugs)

The parasol or umbrella is a traditional In-
dian symbol of royalty and protection. Its
shadow protects from the blazing heat of the
tropical sun, and the coolness of its shade
symbolizes protection from the painful heat
of suffering, desire, obstacles, illnesses, and

The eight auspicious symbols
as a composite group. The parasol.