The lotus is used as a symbol to represent the chakras. The lotus bud symbolizes the spiritual energy, which is within all of us. The opening of the lotus represents the unfolding of our consciousness.

The three Gunas which compose our being are represented by the lotus plant. The lotus roots are in the muddy waters of the pond, and this dark and slimy mud represents the Tamas Guna. The Tamas Guna is characterized by laziness, greed and sloth. It also represents inertia and ignorance.

The lotus stem rises from the water and pushes upwards towards the sunlight. This energetic movement symbolizes Rajas Guna. The Rajas Guna is the active and passionate force which propels one to be successful.

Then the lotus blooms and its petals are unblemished, and this represents a state of Sattva. The Sattvic Guna represents the state of goodness, balance and purity.

The lotus grows from the mud (Tamas), rises in the water (Rajas) and flowers without any mud or dirt on it (Sattva). This process symbolizes the spiritual aspirants, who function as karma yogis and then remain uncontaminated.

Lotus in Ancient Hindu Literature

The Lotus has been mentioned in all Ancient Hindu Literature, like the Vedas and the Puranas. It was called Pundarika meaning the blossoming of the lotus. It is also compared to the heart in Atharva and Chhandayoga Upanishad. It is referred to as the Koustubha Mani (the most valuable jewel of Vishnu). It is also seen in the hands of the Goddesses Parvati, Lakshmi and Saraswati. It opens with the sunrise and closes with the sunset. It represents creation, regeneration and rebirth: the cycle of birth and death.

Remain in the world, act in the world, do whatsoever is needful, and yet remain transcendental, all of, detached, a lotus flower. – Osho

In the Gita Dhyananam, a meditative prayer preceding the Bhagwad Gita, the image of the lotus is used. The fragrance is drunk joyously by the six-legged bees, a metaphor used to describe spiritual persons who are studying the Gita. The scent of the lotus evokes the presence of the deities. The fragrance is the culmination of the lotus journey through spiritual development.

Aim Hrim Klim