Download GCSE Hinduism Hindu Symbols

GCSE Hinduism
Hindu Symbols
AUM : the sacred symbol representing Brahman
LOTUS : a flower commonly seen as symbol of purity & detachment
SWASTIKA : symbol representing auspiciousness. Good luck from all directions
Key Points
AUM:
When attaining God realisation through deep meditation, the sound Aum is heard naturally,
hence it is considered to be the most fitting symbol to represent God.
Hindus claim that the universe was created out of a reverberation which is given out by the
Aum sound.
It is the sound heard in the deepest of meditation; and is the key Hindu symbol.
LOTUS:
The lotus is frequently seen in Hindu images and stands as symbol of purity. Though the lotus
grows in muddy water it still emerges pure and beautiful.
The lotus is also symbolic of detachment; just as water runs of the lotus without wetting it.,
the individual is expected to remain detached from worldliness.
SWASTIKA:
The swastika (from swasti = well being) is a symbol of auspiciousness. The four arms of the
swastika are there to draw good luck from all four corners of the world. The symbol is seen at
the entrance of temples and Hindu homes, and is frequently used during religious ceremonies.
PRAYER:
Prayer is defined as the expression of the innermost desire of the heart. The prayer that asks for
Gods visions considered to be the most important. An important prayer is Gayatri Mantra (rig
veda).
Practise questions answered
Explain why the Om symbol is important for Hindus – 8 marks
Using the Om symbol avoids ambiguity of using limited human language to speak to the
transcendent
A, u & m can be used to represent the first 3 vedas, trimurti, or essential elements
The symbol itself is spiritually powerful and protective
It is uttered at beginning and end of prayers, mantras and acts of worship
It can be used as a name of Brahman
It is the first sound in the universe
What is Om? 2 marks
Om the sacred symbol representing Brahman