Lotus Flower
From ancient times, the lotus flower has been considered a powerful symbol in many cultures and civilizations. The most important features of the lotus flower are actually at the root of its deep symbolism: it only grows in murky waters and it rises with an incredible beauty above. The great thing is that at night the lotus flower closes and goes underwater, only to rise up in its splendor again at dawn.
From the six species of lotus flower mainly known as water lilies, the white and yellow varieties are among the most common. Yet, getting a glimpse of the beautiful delicate shapes of the blue Egyptian lilies, is a rare occasion that would completely prove to the spectator that this flower has been labeled sacred for a very good reason. Its complexity of structure is only matched by the variety of of its symbolic meanings.
The beauty of the lotus flower remains untouched by the impurity from which it springs, therefore it is used to symbolize the highest level of spiritual serenity, rising far above the muddy waters of daily life. Other common meanings associated with it include longevity, health and honor; however we'd be limiting the potential of the symbol if we are to consider only these associations.
In different cultures and geographical areas, the lotus flower shares other significance levels as well; let's consider, for instance its Egyptian interpretation as a symbol of the sun and perpetual rebirth. Such mythological meanings were deeply rooted in the sacred rituals of the ancient world where all activities took place according to the various sun cycles.
For the Tibetans, the lotus flower is the symbol of the supreme spiritual accomplishment; the very mantra they hum in sacred meditations, “Om Mani Padme Hum” is an invocation of this supreme symbol, “Hail to the Jewel in the Lotus”. Nevertheless, the lotus is not confined to the Asian religious realms in its symbolism. In Christianity, the lotus flower with its parallel representation – the white lily - is the symbol of the Archangel Gabriel.
Whether in mystical yoga, Tibetan rites, ancient Egyptian tradition or Christian interpretations, the lotus flower remains a clear epitome that there is more to this world than mere material representations. There is always some higher reality to represent beyond the mundane aspect of things; and precisely such points of view have lead to the attempt of transposing the depth of a symbolic flower into the beauty of artistic representation.