12 Common Sanskrit Symbols
What is Sanskrit?
Have you ever been puzzled during your yoga or meditation practice?
- Struggling to remember the Sanskrit name for "Downward Dog" pose after all this time?
- Seen mysterious Sanskrit tattoos but didn't understand their deeper meaning?
- Chanted along with your teacher but still felt something was missing?
Don’t worry! These seemingly cryptic symbols actually hold the key to unlocking your spiritual journey.
What is Sanskrit?
Sanskrit is an ancient language from India and South Asia, often seen in yoga, meditation, spiritual practices, and even tattoos or art. In fact, nearly every yoga pose (Asana) has a Sanskrit name, and most mantras are chanted in Sanskrit.
The Role of Sanskrit in Spirituality
Sanskrit symbols and mantras are frequently used to activate spiritual energy and help practitioners connect more deeply with their inner selves. They also facilitate the understanding of universal wisdom, guiding us toward a stronger connection with the universe and our higher self.
In addition to their spiritual meanings, these symbols represent key moral and philosophical concepts in Buddhism, Hinduism, and Yoga. They serve as reminders for us to continuously pursue higher states of consciousness and personal growth.
Here are 12 common Sanskrit symbols that are often seen in yoga, meditation, and spiritual practices:
1.Om or Aum symbol
The Om symbol features three curved lines, representing the creation, preservation, and destruction of the universe. In Hinduism and Buddhism, Om is considered the primordial sound of the universe. The three curves of Om symbolize the three primary states of consciousness: waking, dreaming, and deep sleep (unconsciousness). The upper curve represents maya (illusion), reminding us of the limitations of the material world and the soul’s resistance to them.
Application：You can gently chant Om at the beginning of your meditation to help enter a meditative state. The Om symbol is also commonly worn as jewelry or tattoos as a symbol of one’s connection to the universe.
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2. Ahimsa
It is one of the core principles of the Five Yamas in yoga and a fundamental teaching in both Buddhism and Hinduism.
Great figures such as the Dalai Lama and Mother Teresa have advocated the principle of Ahimsa through their actions, demonstrating its profound power.
Application：You can practice Ahimsa in daily life through yoga, meditation, and even chanting mantras. During yoga practice, we often become aware of whether we are experiencing physical or emotional pain. Many people choose to remind themselves of this principle through tattoos or by writing it on their walls as a daily affirmation.
3.Mandala
A mandala is a geometric design, usually circular, with symmetrical and layered patterns. The balanced structure of a mandala is designed to guide the meditator into a state of deep focus and inner calm. While mandalas are composed of simple geometric shapes, their deeper meanings are rich and profound.
Application: During meditation, focusing on a mandala pattern can help enhance concentration and quiet the mind. Many people also use mandalas as art or decorative pieces to promote a sense of relaxation and tranquility.
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4.Hamsa
The Hamsa symbol is shaped like an open hand, usually with five fingers and an Eye of Wisdom in the center. It represents protection, strength, and blessings, believed to ward off negative energy, protect against harmful intentions, and enhance intuition and spiritual awareness.
Application：You can wear it as an accessory or sit quietly with the Hamsa symbol in front of you. Gaze at the Eye of Wisdom in the center, take deep breaths, and chant "kshaum" 21 times. As you do this, feel warmth spreading through your palm and visualize the symbol radiating golden light, wrapping around your body to create a protective shield.
5. Chakra symbol
In yoga philosophy, the human body is believed to have seven primary energy centers known as "chakras." These energy centers are located at different points in the body and are closely connected to our physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual states.
Application: You can activate and balance these energy centers through meditation, yoga, or energy healing to maintain harmony between body and mind. The symbol of each chakra serves as a reminder to be mindful of our energy state.
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6. Unalome symbol
Unalome is a spiral-shaped symbol featuring a twisting curve at the base and three dots at the top. It represents the journey of human spiritual growth—from chaos and ignorance to ultimate enlightenment. The symbol reflects the ups and downs we encounter in life, ultimately guiding us toward inner peace and wisdom.
Application: Many people choose to wear an Unalome as a tattoo to symbolize their continuous growth and transformation, embracing the challenges and uncertainties of life with grace and understanding.
7.Lotus Flower
The lotus symbolizes transcendence and purification. Growing from muddy waters, the lotus remains untouched by the dirt, representing the ability to maintain inner purity and spiritual elevation even amidst life's challenges. As it rises from the murky depths, the lotus blooms into a beautiful pink or purple flower, with its petals never exposed to the mud below.
Application: During meditation, envision yourself like a lotus—rising above troubles while maintaining inner peace and purity. The lotus is also a common symbol in yoga poses, reminding you to stay spiritually grounded and clear-minded, no matter the external circumstances.
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8.Yin Yang
Yin Yang is an ancient and profound Chinese philosophical concept. It reflects the principle that all things in the material world are formed through the dynamic interaction of two opposing yet complementary forces: Yin and Yang. These opposing forces represent the interconnectedness and dual nature of existence, driving the continuous movement and transformation of the universe.
Application: In yoga practice, you can cultivate balance and harmony by focusing on the alignment between breath, movement, and awareness. In daily life, the principle of Yin and Yang can serve as a reminder to maintain balance—for example, finding the right equilibrium between work and rest or social interaction and solitude.
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9.Buddha
Ancient Buddhist stories tell of Siddhartha Gautama, who meditated under the Bodhi tree before the 6th century BCE to eliminate suffering in the world. Despite being born into a wealthy family, he was deeply troubled by the suffering he saw around him. He abandoned his luxurious lifestyle in search of a path to enlightenment. However, living in extreme poverty did not bring him the understanding or relief he sought. Thus, he chose the Middle Way, avoiding both excessive indulgence and extreme asceticism.
He spent six years seeking spiritual freedom and the meaning of life, ultimately finding compassion under the Bodhi tree. His insights into nonviolence, meditation, and spiritual teachings laid the foundation for Buddhism.
Application: In meditation or yoga practice, Buddha statues can serve as sources of inspiration and reminders, helping to maintain inner peace and awareness. Wearing Buddha-themed jewelry or placing a Buddha statue in your home can keep you connected to your pursuit of tranquility and mindfulness.
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10.Ganesh
In Hinduism, Lord Ganesha is the deity symbolizing wisdom, intellect, and life's realization. His image is typically depicted with the head of an elephant and the body of a human. Many people invoke Ganesha's help when beginning new endeavors, seeking his blessings to remove obstacles from their path.
Whenever facing challenges, chanting "Om Ganeshaya Namah" (the sacred name of Ganesha) calls upon his assistance. In yoga, adjusting breath, meditation, and posture can effectively eliminate both physical and life obstacles, helping to shift into a more free and relaxed state.
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11. Mala beads
Mala beads are used to count the number of meditation or prayer repetitions, typically consisting of 108 beads. Each bead represents a meditation goal or intention, helping the user maintain focus and mental peace. Using a mala can assist the practitioner in concentrating their thoughts and entering a deep meditative state.
Application: Whenever facing challenges, silently recite "Om Ganeshaya Namah" (the sacred name of Ganesha) to call upon his help. In yoga, by adjusting breath, meditation, and posture, obstacles in the body and life can be effectively cleared, promoting a state of greater freedom and relaxation.
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12. Number 108
The number 108 holds special significance in Sanskrit, symbolizing wholeness and spirituality and aligning with the universal laws. It represents the various experiences and ultimate goals of life, holding an important place in many religious and philosophical traditions. It is often used for counting during meditation, symbolizing the completeness of spiritual practice.
Application: You can set goals by chanting 108 specific mantras during meditation or using the number 108 to guide your practice, such as sitting in stillness for 108 breaths or meditating for 108 minutes each day. Incorporating the number 108 into your practice can deepen your connection with the world and help you achieve spiritual awakening and inner peace.
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Why is Sanskrit Important in Yoga and Meditation?
- Unlock Spiritual Growth: Sanskrit symbols and mantras have been designed to align your mind, body, and spirit, helping you achieve deeper spiritual awareness.
- Guidance for Meditation: By understanding these symbols, you can enhance your meditation practice, allowing you to focus, reflect, and channel your energy more effectively.
- Connecting to Ancient Wisdom: These sacred symbols carry millennia of wisdom from ancient traditions, offering timeless guidance that remains relevant to today’s seekers.
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s remembering the Sanskrit names for yoga poses, understanding the meaning behind mantras, or exploring spiritual symbols, Sanskrit is more than just an ancient language—it’s a bridge to deeper self-awareness and connection with the universe.
Start incorporating these symbols into your practice and see how they can enhance your spiritual journey!
