The Significance Of Lotus In Hinduism

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The flower by its very appearance symbolises the Hindu principles of glory which are truth, auspiciousness and beauty ( Satyam, Shivam, Sundaram). This forms the reason for using it for the comparison of the different aspects of God like His lotus-eyes, lotus feet, lotus hands, the lotus of the heart etc.

The lotus also extends a more spiritual meaning. It blooms in the morning and withdraws its petals in the night. This behaviour of the flower brings to light the fact that one's mind blooms with the illumination of spiritual knowledge and cringes without it. Further more the flower blossoms in slushy areas sustaining its purity and despite its surroundings. This reminds one to remain pure and beautiful under all circumstances.

The lotus leaf is often allegorically used in the Hindu scriptures. The flower though thrives in water, its leaf never gets wet. This symbolises the nature of a Jnani or a realised person who is ever blissful, untouched by the sorrows and the changes which is characteristic of the world.