Ashtamangalas

The ashtamangalas are attributes of Ashtamangaladevi, the goddess of Good Fortune. In Hinduism this is Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth.

The eight signs are usually depicted individually as wall decor, ornaments on curtains, on doors or windows. The vessel in which they are all depicted together is called Puma Kalasha.

Chattra (Parasol)

CHATTRA (TIBETAN — DUK)

This is a parasol. Like a shield, it protects against all evil. It also stands for high rank, and is usually used by Tibetan high lamas. It is the symbol of Buddhist goddesses, such as Panchanaksa and Usnasasita.

Dhwaja

DHWAJA (TIBETAN-THANJHA)

This is a banner, a symbol of the victory of the Buddha’s teachings.

Sankha

SANKHA (TIBETAN - THUNGKHAR)

This is a conch shell. As a sign of good luck, it stands for the absence of all evil and as an attribute, symbolizes the glory of holy men.

Kalasha

KALASHA (TIBETAN - PHUMPA)

This is a water vessel which is full. It stands for abundance. It is considered to contain the elixir of immortality and spiritual wealth.

Matsyayugma

MATSYAYUGMA (TIBETAN - SHENN - NYA)

This is usually a pair of golden fish, a sign of salvation from suffering. It also represents fecundity.

Padma

PADMA (TIBETAN - PEMA)

The perfect lotus stands for beauty and purity.

Dharmachakra

DHARMACHAKRA (TIBETAN - CHUYKI - KORLO)

This is the Buddhist Wheel of the Law. Eight spokes represent the Eightfold path. It signifies completion and salvation through the teaching of the Dharma.

Shirivasta