Nelumbo nucifera

Nelumbo nucifera is known by a number of common names, including sacred lotus, Indian lotus and sacred water-lily. This plant is an aquatic perennial, native to India and Indonesia, most commonly cultivated in water gardens. It is the National Flower of India.

Religious symbolism

Hindus associate the lotus blossom with creation mythology, and with the gods Vishnu Brahma and Lakshmi. From ancient times lotus has been a divine symbol in Hindu tradition. Its unfolding petals suggest the expansion of the soul. The growth of its pure beauty from the mud of its origin holds a benign spiritual promise. Recall that both Brahma and Lakshmi, the Divinities of potence and Wealth, have the lotus symbol associated with them as their seats. In Hindi it is called ??? (Kamal) which is also a popular name for many males in India.

Related Topics:
Hindu - Creation mythology - Vishnu - Brahma - Lakshmi - Hindi

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See also: Lotus Position.

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Borrowing from Hinduism, in Buddhist symbolism, the lotus represents purity of body, speech, and mind, floating above the muddy waters of attachment and desire. The Buddha is often depicted sitting on a giant lotus leaf or blossom.

Related Topics:
Buddhist symbolism - Buddha

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