Sacred geometry is made up of a number of different symbols and designs, all of which are forms that guide us to connect with the greater (and more basic) elements of the universe. In fact, you might have seen a symbol made up of interlocking triangles and lotus shapes called Sri Yantra and thought to yourself, ‘what is the Sri Yantra meaning?’.
In this post, we’ll give you some insight into this symbol - what it means and the benefits that come from contemplating this symbol, wearing it on your body, or displaying it in your home.
A ‘yantra’ is a mystical diagram which is used for contemplation and considering the broader metaphysical aspects of the universe and all of the different parts that make up the whole. This design, in particular, is considered to be one of the most powerful yantras and is used to bring wealth into the spiritual and physical realm. Wealth in this sense isn't necessarily money, but overall wellbeing and freedom from negative influences.
In fact, ‘sri’ is said to mean wealth, and ‘yantra’ is loosely translated as instrument, so this example of sacred geometry concerns the bringing of wealth through this particular instrument.
If we take a look at this symbol, it's easy to see why it has been so revered as a sacred geometric symbol for so long. The first thing you might notice is the nine interlocking triangles which symbolize masculinity (five triangles pointing downwards) and femininity (four triangles pointing upwards). These also speak to the concept of balance in the universe, which could also link to the Chinese philosophical concepts of yin and yang.
The round dot in the middle of the design is the ‘bindu’, which is said to represent the origin of creation and the relationship between the Hindu God Shiva and Shakti.
However, to truly understand this symbol, it’s helpful to look at it from the outside in. To start with, the outside of the symbol is surrounded by four ‘gates’. These represent the distinct nature of the material world, which is something that many of us like to focus on. From there, we then move into the circle which shows the cyclical nature of life and the two layers of lotus petals, which represent the fertile life force of creation.
As some might know, the lotus flower is a very important symbol as it is a flower that grows up from the mud. It relates to the process of growth as a human being and eventually ‘blossoming’ and opening up to achieve enlightenment.
The interlocking triangles of this sacred symbol show the relationship between femininity and masculinity, and the complexity of consciousness (as the interlocked nine triangles create a further 43 triangles). Finally, the center point is where it all begins- the starting point of life and creation.
In the discussion above, you might have already picked up on how this kind of design could bring about a wealth of opportunities for contemplation about life and the universe. In fact, this pattern is said to represent the cosmic plan and help us gain insight into the highest form of consciousness.
If you’re looking to use this pattern as a tool for self-discovery or deeper metaphysical insights, there are many Sri Yantra benefits. It’s also useful to observe this symbol in a mindful way, whether you’re looking at it on a screen, or putting it on your body in the form of jewelry, tattoo, or clothing.
One way to do this is to meditate on it. Find a comfortable seat as you would for any other type of meditation and start to observe the design. You can start in the center, slowly and mindfully moving out towards the frame of the symbol, taking in each different layer of symbology as you go.
Once you’ve done this, you can then start to work your way inwards. You can do this for about 15 minutes, but remember to take some time to rest (5-25 minutes) after doing so, to be able to get the full benefits of this meditation.
Taking time to examine this sacred geometrical pattern in such a way will give you many opportunities to reflect on all of its mysteries, and just to appreciate all of the basic forms that make up our complex universe.
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