Understanding the Powers and Historical Significance of the Swastika

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The Hindu Swastika is a significant symbol, with its roots running deep in the Hindu religion and other cultures worldwide. In Buddhism, it is the symbol of the footsteps of Lord Buddha, and for the Jains, the holy sign of Swastika symbolizes Suparshavanatha, i.e., the seventh Tirthankar out of twenty-four. The Swastika is associated with the Norse mythology Gods Odin and Thor as well. However, the Hindu religion reveres the Swastika the most and considers it the symbol of peace, good luck, prosperity, and happiness. This auspicious sign is associated with Lord Ganesha. A red Swastika symbol is considered immensely divine and necessary for a life full of happiness and peace.


The word Swastika means the existence of good fortune and well-being and is worshiped ardently by Hindus worldwide. It adorns the entrance of their houses, especially during Diwali celebrations, and all newly purchased things. According to popular belief, the Swastika possesses divine powers, and by making the symbol on an object, one can ensure that it stays blessed and lasts long without damage. By marking things with the Swastika before using them, one seeks blessings for an auspicious start. For instance, marking vehicles with it ensures they remain safe from accidents. It is also drawn during rituals and pujas to start them on a positive note and remove any obstacles.


The Hindu Swastika stands as a symbol of the four holy texts, i.e., the four Vedas - Rig Veda, Yajur Veda, Atharva Veda, Sama Veda, and the four purposes of life, also called the purusharthas - Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha. In addition, its four arms stand for the four directions - North, East, South, and West.

The right-facing Swastika is said to represent Lord Vishnu and the Sun God. The left-facing Swastika, also called Sauvastika, is said to represent Devi Kali and Tantra. 


Power of the Swastika -

The Hindu Swastika is considered to be a very powerful symbol and is said to bring a lot of benefits for people who worship it and bear it.

The Swastika symbol keeps negative energy at bay. It protects from evil eyes and black magic by creating a protective shield of positivity around people and things.

It removes Vastu dosh. Drawing it at the entrance keeps evil energy out and brings in positivity. It maintains the flow of energy in the house and improves relationships.

The holy symbol brings peace to those who focus on the symbol while meditating. It keeps depression and anxiety away.

Swastika is also said to bring wealth to people. Drawing the symbol at the house's entrance on Diwali brings the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi. 

During the godh-bharai, or the baby shower of women, a red Swastika is drawn on a Kalash to bless the mother and her child with positivity and good luck.


History of the Swastika - 

The earliest mention of Swastika can be found in the text Ashtadhyayi penned by Panini.

The Swastika symbol appeared in 3000 BC as well during the Indus Valley Civilisation’s existence. It was also carved on Mesopotamian coins and the walls of the houses.

In 1908, physical evidence of the Swastika was found for the first time in Ukraine in the form of a 15000 years old bird statue made of ivory.

Archaeological excavations of Troy led to the discovery of almost 1800 objects that bore the Swastika. The Nordic Tribes, the Celts, and the Druids also used this symbol.

From 7,000-year-old stone walls in Iran to ceramic pottery found in the caves of Bulgaria, the Swastika is inscribed on various ancient relics.

Native American tribes used the Swastika to decorate the crafts they made for personal and commercial purposes. They also considered it to be the symbol of the four winds.

In 1920, Adolf Hitler used it as a symbol for the German Nazi Party and called it the Hakenkreuz, meaning hooked cross. He used it to represent his ideas of the superiority of the Aryans over the Jews, and gradually, the symbol became associated with racism in Europe.


Wrapping Up - 

From the main doorway of houses to bonnets of cars, a red Swastika is often seen gracing Hindu households. The divine symbol has been worshiped for ages and continues to bless those who revere it. 

The Hindu Swastika symbol is worshiped for its immensely auspicious powers. It finds significance not just in Hinduism but in other religions like Buddhism, Jainism, and Norse mythology as well. This divine sign is not limited just to the holy land of India. Physical depictions of the symbol have been observed all around the world. That is why the beauty and magic of the Swastika lies in the fact that it unites the world culturally and truly transcends borders.


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