Some view it as a representation of the unity of method and wisdom. Otherwise known as the auspicious drawing, the endless knot also represents the mutual dependence of secular affairs and religious doctrine. This pattern also symbolizes Samsara which, according to Tibetan Buddhism, means the eternal cycle of suffering or reincarnation. As such, it represents the continuum of mind or Buddha’s infinite wisdom and compassion. The endless or eternal knot is an intricate design with no beginning or end. Let’s take a look at some of the most important and well-known of the Buddhist symbols. However, not all of these symbols are significant to every sect of Buddhism, with some being specific to certain schools of Buddhism. While Buddhism is known to have many symbols, these did not appear in India until three centuries after the appearance of the Buddha.Īs the philosophy of Buddhism spread across the world, many symbols have been used to depict Buddha and the principles of Buddhism. These include the Ashtamangala, or the eight auspicious symbols, which are the endless knot, lotus flower, dhvaja, dharmachakra, golden fish, parasol, conch shell and treasure vase, as well as several others, such as the bodhi tree and the mandala. Buddhist symbols exist to remind its followers of the path to nirvana and the teachings of the Buddha himself.

Enso symbol meaning