What is Swastika: Meaning and Significance!

Related Topics:Rituals and TraditionsVedic astrology

Swastika is a very well-known Sanatan Hindu symbol and is an integral part of our culture. Whenever we buy something or begin some new endeavours, we generally begin it by first drawing Swastika. But, not all of us know about the meaning and more importantly the significance of this auspicious symbol. Here, we will be telling you about the meaning of the Swastika, its significance and how you can correctly draw it.

Swastika Meaning

The term “swastika” has a clear etymological origin in Sanskrit. It is derived from the combination of two roots: “Su,” meaning ‘well’ or ‘auspicious,’ and “As,” meaning ‘being.’ Therefore, the swastika is a symbol that embodies the idea of everything being auspicious or well. In a cosmic context, the swastika symbolizes the act of creation by the Almighty in the entire cosmos, representing the auspicious and harmonious order of the universe.

What is the Significance of Swastika?

Swastika has enormous significance, not only in Hinduism: 

• The Swastika symbol also represents the God Sun. Just as the sun rises reliably each morning and sets in the evening, the Swastika symbol maintains its unchanging form as a representation of infinity. The Swastika is a powerful symbol denoting uninterrupted progress and possessing the inherent quality of perpetuity.

• It is also believed that the sign is associated with Bhagwan Ganesha. He is also worshipped before initiating any auspicious work.

• When the Swastika is correctly crafted, it is believed to radiate a powerful aura of positive energy. This energy is thought to serve as a protective shield, safeguarding both objects and individuals.

• Harnessing the energy of the Swastika, whether within the home, a hospital or daily life, is said to contribute to well-being and peace of mind, potentially keeping illnesses and concerns at bay.

• It’s essential to exercise caution, as using the Swastika incorrectly can lead to unintended complications. You can seek guidance from expert astrologers and pundits at NamoAstro to ensure that any auspicious endeavours involving the Swastika are carried out appropriately and harmoniously.

• The swastika holds a significant and auspicious meaning in various faith traditions that originated in India and are believed to be the offshoots of Hindu Dharma.
  • For Buddhists, the swastika symbolises the footprints and heart of the Buddha, representing his teachings and spiritual presence.
  • In Jainism, the swastika is closely linked to the seventh Tirthankara, who is one of the liberated souls guiding others in the Jain tradition. The arms of the swastika symbolise one of the four places a soul can be reborn in the cycle of birth and death, conveying the concept of spiritual transformation and liberation in Jainism.

Now that you know about the significance of the Swastik; let us tell you about the correct way to draw Swastika so that all your next endeavours can have an auspicious beginning. 

How To Draw Swatika Correctly?

The Swastika symbol is traditionally created using the right-hand ring finger dipped in sacred Kumkum paste or other holy powders. You can create the Swastika sign using Kumkum paste or other holy materials by following the below steps:

• Begin by placing nine dots in a 3*3 grid on the chosen surface.
• Start by drawing a line that connects the top-right dot with the centre dot in the same row.
• Extend this line downward, connecting it with the centre dot in the same row.
• Form a horizontal line by joining the centre dot in the second row with the right dot in that row.
• Continue this line downward to connect with the right dot in the bottom row.
• Now, establish a vertical line connecting the left dot in the top row to the left dot in the centre row.
• Create a horizontal line extending from the left dot to the centre dot in the middle row and further down to the centre dot in the bottom row, thus connecting it with the left dot in the same row. This completes the Swastika pattern.

The Swastika, resembling a cross but with four arms curving to the right, carries deep symbolic significance. While some choose to embellish the Swastika with dots placed between its arms, others prefer a simpler design.

The straight lines following the bends of the arms signify Sarupya (divine form), Salokya (divine world), Samipya (divine proximity), and Sayujya (divine union). At the ends of the Swastika’s arms, you find elements representing ego, mind, will, and intellect. The empty space within the Swastika’s arms embodies qualities such as dedication, love, faith, trust, and devotion. This profound symbolism adds layers of meaning and significance to the Swastika.

Its four branches are said to symbolise the fourfold principles of divinity:

• Lord Brahma, with his four faces, spreads sacred knowledge in all directions.
• The four Vedas—Rig Veda, Sama Veda, Yajur Veda, and Atharva Veda—represent ancient wisdom.
• The four Purusharthas encompass Dharma (righteousness), Artha (prosperity), Kama (fulfilment of desires) and Moksha (liberation).
• The four stages of life: Brahmacharya (student life), Grihastha (householder life), Vanaprastha (retired life), and Sannyasa (life of renunciation).
• The four Varnas: Brahman, Kshatriya, Vaishya, and Shudra, denote different societal roles.
• Additionally, the four arms of the Swastika represent the cardinal directions—North, South, East, and West. The centre is believed to symbolise the navel of Bhagwan Vishnu, the source of creation from which Lord Brahma emerged.

Rituals associated with the Swastika 

• Swastika finds its place on walls, Kalash pots, floors where religious ceremonies are conducted, and sometimes even on individuals. Before the commencement of puja or religious rituals, the auspicious Swastika is meticulously drawn.
•  This sacred symbol is also fashioned into lockets and bracelets, believed to bestow good fortune upon those who wear them.
• The Swastika symbol is often employed as a means to achieve success in one’s career or business endeavours. It is a commonly held belief that to attain success in a specific undertaking, one can create a Swastika symbol using turmeric in the northern part of their home and expose it to sunlight daily. This practice is thought to harness positive energies conducive to success.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Where to place Swastik on the main door?

A: The Swastika symbol is typically placed near the entrance of one’s home or at the place of worship. It is revered for its symbolism of auspiciousness and its potential to invite good fortune. The Swastika’s strength lies in its harmonious and straightforward design, making it a common feature during Hindu religious ceremonies and rituals.