Eight auspicious symbols
Right-coiled white conch
The white conch which coils to the right symbolises the deep,
far-reaching and melodious sound of the Dharma teachings, which being
appropriate to different natures, predispositions and aspirations of
disciples, awakens them from the deep slumber of ignorance and urges them
to accomplish their own and others' welfare.
Precious umbrella
The precious umbrella symbolises the wholesome activity of
preserving beings from illness, harmful forces, obstacles and so forth in
this life, and all kinds of temporary and enduring sufferings of the three
lower realms, and the realms of men and gods in future lives. It also
represents the enjoyment of a feast of benefit under its cool shade.
Victory banner
The victory banner symbolises the victory of the activities of
one's own and others' body, speech and mind over obstacles and
negativities. It also stands for the complete victory of the Buddhist
Doctrine over all harmful and pernicious forces.
Golden fish
The golden fish symbolises the auspiciousness of all living beings
in a state of fearlessness, without danger of drowning in the ocean of
sufferings, and migrating from place to place freely and spontaneously,
just as fish swim freely without fear through water.
Wheel
The golden wheel symbolises the auspiciousness of the turning of
the precious wheel of Buddha's doctrine, both in its teachings and
realizations, in all realms and at all times, enabling beings to
experience the joy of wholesome deeds and liberation.
Auspicious drawing
The auspicious drawing symbolises the mutual dependence of
religious doctrine and secular affairs. Similarly, it represents the union
of wisdom and method, the inseparability of emptiness and dependent
arising at the time of path, and finally, at the time of enlightenment,
the complete union of wisdom and great compassion.
Lotus flower
The lotus flower symbolises the complete purification of
the defilements of the body, speech and mind, and the full blossoming of
wholesome deeds in blissful liberation.
Vase of treasure
The treasure vase symbolises an endless rain of long life, wealth
and prosperity and all the benefits of this world and liberation.
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10-Nov-97
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