Mahayogi Sthulabhadra Diwakar Chitrakatha 043

Author(s): Nityanandsuri, Chidanandmuni, Shreechand Surana
Publisher: Mahavir Seva Trust Mumbai

Page 37

The belief in auspicious objects is very old in Indian culture. The Ashtamangala or eight auspicious objects are known to Jain worship from ancient times. These auspicious objects are used as decorating tops of architraves or ramparts or hung on the threshold of a house or painted on walls. It is believed that they bring luck and happiness in the family and houses. They are also found in Jain temples. The designs of the symbols may vary according to the time but the symbols remain the same. The ashtamangala are:
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EIGHT AUSPICIOUS SYMBOLS (ASHTAMANGALA)
Swastika: The first is swastika. Swastika signifies peace and well-being.
Shrivatsa: The second is called shrivatsa. Vatsa means chest and shri means beauty. The middle of the chest is raised a little and on it there is a bunch of soft hair. This is called shrivatsa. Shrivatsa means a beautiful mark on Jina's chest. It is said that the highest knowledge has manifested itself from the heart of the Jina.
Nandhyavarta: The third is nandhyavarta, the big swastika with nine corners. In mythology nine points in nandhyavarta indicates the treasure of nine types of material, mental, physical and spiritual wealth.
Vardhamanaka : The fourth is vardhamanaka also known as sharav that means a shallow dish used for lamps. When one shallow dish is covered by another one, upside down, it appears like a box. This symbol is suggestive of increase of wealth, fame, merit etc.
Bhadrasana: The fifth is bhadrasana (sinhasana) meaning throne. It is auspicious because it is sanctified by the feet of the blessed Lord Jina.
Kalasha: The sixth is kalasha, a symbol of auspiciousness. It is a holy pitcher or a jug made of copper, silver, or steel. It is used for religious and social ceremonies. It is used in temples when certain images are being worshipped. When one enters a new home it is customary to carry the kalasha on the head and enter. One fills the kalasha with pure water that signifies wisdom and fullness and carries it in the new house and recites some mantras. This ceremony is performed to welcome grace and happiness into the new home.
Minyugala: The seventh is minyugala meaning a pair of fish. It is a symbol of Cupid's banners coming to worship the Jina after the defeat of the God of Love.
Darpana: The eighth is darpana meaning a mirror. The mirror reflects one's true self because of its clarity.