Symbolism of the Swastika

The swastika has been seen as a symbol for good luck by people in both ancient and modern times. A closer look at the etymology of this Sanskrit word, however, reveals a deeper meaning. When the Sanskrit scholar and spiritual teacher, P.R. Sarkar visited Germany in 1979 he gave the following interpretation of the word:

  • su - means "good"
  • asti - means "to be, to exist"
  • ik - means "what is in existence, and will continue to exist"
  • a - denotes feminine gender

So "Swastika" means a 'good existence' that is not to be destroyed and that remains in a good condition. He went on to say that its deeper meaning is permanent victory. In the context of the cultural origins of the swastika, this means the victory of dharma - the fundamental spiritual nature of humanity.

Sarkar explained that the swastika has both a positive and a negative expression:

Positive and negative swastikas

He then went on to warn those present not to use the negative swastika, explaining that it brings total annihilation, while the positive swastika brings total victory.

Dharmafly web applications