Tashi Tagya (Ashtamanga) -- Eight Sacred Symbols

Known as tashi tagya in Tibetan and ashtamanga in Sanskrit, these eight sacred designs are seen around Tibetan-origin populations, including throughout the highland populations of Nepal. They are commonly found on chorten, stupa and mani stones and in paintings, textiles, ritual objects as well as inscriptions at homes, monasteries, restaurants and shops and even on tableware and everyday practical objects.

These revered symbols are considered signs of good fortune, protection and well-being. Each motif has different meanings that are open to interpretation and the following is a brief summary of the significance of each:

-Eternal Knot (represents unity of the cosmos and time’s endlessness as well as the union between wisdom and compassion, intention and action)

-Lotus (wholesome deeds rising from the coarse mud under murky waters to blossom in the clear light of day; represents the process from ignorance to enlightenment)

-Victory Banner (stands for the victory of wisdom over ignorance)

-Wheel of Dharma (represents the precious Buddhist teachings, especially the Eightfold Path and the Four Noble Truths)

-Vase (holds waters of eternity and jewels of enlightenment)

-Pair of Golden Fish (swimming freely without fear of drowning in the waters of Samsara -- worldly life)

-Umbrella (protection from negative influences and suffering)

-Conch Shell (heralds the Buddha’s teachings, signals group prayer time)