Swastika

The cosmic Swastika and its profound significance

A 5-minute read

The term “swastika” originates from the Sanskrit word “svastika,” signifying “favorable luck” or “prosperity.” The design, characterized by a motif (hooked cross), appears to have its earliest documented usage in Eurasia, dating back as far as 7,000 years ago, possibly symbolizing the sun’s path across the sky. Even today, it retains its sacred significance in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, frequently adorning temples and residences in India and Indonesia. In Europe, the swastika also boasts an ancient history, having been found on artifacts from pre-Christian European societies.

In this context, we will discuss the Swastika as a symbol within Hindu religious tradition.

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The Swastika transcends its role as a purely religious Hindu symbol, serving as a remarkable testament to the profound cosmic and astronomical wisdom held by Hindus millennia ago.

Numerous theories abound regarding the Swastika and its origins, but to me, this particular theory (underneath) appears the most credible as it aligns with the evolutionary path of Hinduism.

Hinduism emerged from the interplay between humanity and the forces of nature. Hindu sages carefully observed the innate powers of nature, which in turn served as the foundation for the construction of Hindu scriptures.

Let’s envision the world from millennia ago. Hindu sages dedicated countless hours, days, and years to deep meditation within the embrace of nature. During these meditative journeys, they discovered the Dhruv Tara, also known as the Polar Star.

As commonly known, the Polar Star is the most luminous star in the night sky. Its unique characteristic is its unwavering position in the northern celestial sphere, signifying its constant presence.

Now, turning our attention to the constellation, Ursa Major graces the northern sky with its brilliance. Within Ursa Major, numerous bright galaxies adorn the celestial expanse. This constellation is best known for the distinct arrangement of its seven prominent stars, forming a well-recognized asterism. It remains visible throughout the year across most of the northern hemisphere.

In Hinduism, these seven stars are referred to as the Sapatrishi, and they are named as follows:

1. Gautam

2. Bhardhwaj

3. Vishvamitra

4. Kashyap

5. Jamadagni

6. Vasishtha (with a smaller adjacent star representing his wife, Arundhati)

7. Atri

These Saptarishis are thought to revolve around Dhruva Tara, also known as the Polar Star.

If you happen to observe these seven stars along with Dhruv Tara during the spring season in India, the celestial arrangement will appear as follows:

If you were to observe these seven stars and Dhruv Tara during the summer months, the celestial configuration would present itself in this manner:

If you were to witness these seven stars along with Dhruv Tara during the Sharad Ritu (Autumn), the celestial display would resemble the following:

If one were to gaze upon these seven stars and Dhruv Tara during the winter season, the celestial arrangement would manifest as depicted below:

Therefore, when you observe the year-long movement of the Saptarishi (Pradakshina) around Dhruv Tara and connect their positions with lines, it takes on the shape of a Swastika.

The Swastika symbolizes not only the four seasons but also the entire cosmos. It serves as a representation of infinite consciousness within the dimensions of space and time, taking the form of geometry.

The Swastika stands as the most revered equation. When we craft the Swastika during our ritual offerings, we express our reverence to that boundless consciousness transcending the constraints of space and time. It serves as a reminder of our Saptarishi, our forebearers, and Dhruva, a devout devotee of Vishnu.

It is indeed expansive and vast, isn’t it?

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