6 sacred symbols in Hinduism and what they mean

Sacred symbols have been used since time immemorial. Some of them are symbols of protection, others of strength, others to tell people about a certain group, and some more depicting the Gods that the group or community worships. For example, an OM symbol is associated with Hinduism, an ‘evil eye’ symbol is used to protect the home or a place from negative energies, a ‘Shri Yantra’ symbol is for prosperity and wellness, and so on.
Here we mention 6 sacred symbols of Hinduism and what they mean.

OM, the sound of the universe, and the vibrations that are enough to put your mind at peace in an instant, is one of the most famous symbols in Hinduism. It is believed that OM is the primordial sound of the Universe, the first one to be released from the Universe itself when it came to being. The chanting of OM is one of the most peaceful and freeing feeling and can immediately calm you down and remove any negative or stagnant energies from around you.

The Swastika is another positive and ancient symbol that is drawn to invite good fortune and well-being. It is drawn at the entrance of homes, on new cars and bikes, and near the home temple as well.

The Swastika symbol has 4 arms and a dot between each one of them, and they all have a specific meaning. The four dota are said to represent - Dharma, Artha, Kaam, and Moksha, and the different arms of the Swastika are about - mind, dedication, salvation, consciousness, and more.

The blooming Lotus is another symbol used in Hinduism, and also in Buddhism. The Lotus is said to be a symbol of purity and regeneration, and an inspiration for it blooms beautifully even after being surrounded with mud and dirt.
The sacredness of the Lotus flower comes from the fact that many Hindu Gods and Goddesses are seen holding a lotus in their hand, or sitting on a Lotus flower, or even placing it near their ears. And so, a blooming Lotus is said to be a symbol of new beginnings, positivity, and healing of the self.

The weapon of Lord Shiva, the Trishul is a symbol of protection and power. In English, Trishul is called ‘Trident’ as it has three prongs. And as a symbol of power and protection, the Trishul is a representation of Lord Shiva’s qualities. How? Well, he is the governor of the past, present, and the future, which shows his power over time and destiny. Along with that that, the Trishul has the power to destroy evil, ignorance, and ill.

Shankh, or conch as it is called in English, is also an important sacred symbol in Hinduism. The Shankh marks the start, and also the end of ceremonies, rituals, pujas, and positive work. When the Shankh is blown correctly, with the right power and intentions, it produces the sound of OM, which purifies the atmosphere, fills the surroundings with positivity, and creates an environment of goodwill and calm. The sound of the Shankh is also believed to keep away any evil and negative energies.

The Banyan tree, or Vat vriksh, is also an important symbol in Hindu religion. Why? Because the Banyan is a symbol of long life, immortality, and good health. For Hindus, the Banyan tree is a symbol of life and shelter, and just like the Banyan tree protects others and self, similarly, the Divine protects humans from others and themselves.
Apart from the long life, Banyan tree is also a symbol of the interconnectedness of all life force. How? Well, just like the roots of the Banyan tree are vast, spread all across the ground and in the air, similarly, all nature (human, divine, or animal) is interconnected by common threads.