Chatra Symbol – History And Meaning
In Buddhism and Hinduism, the chatra symbol – also called the “precious parasol” and the “sacred umbrella” – is a symbol of kingship/royalty and protection.
It is one of the Ashtamangala or the Eight Auspicious Signs denoting the Noble Eight-fold Path or dharmachakra in Vajrayana Buddhism.
Chatra Symbol – History And Meaning
The chatra symbol is consistently represented as the Sahasrara in Ayurvedic diagrams, dharmic tradition iconography, and traditional Tibetan medicine thangkas.
The chatra in Buddhism is also seen as a symbol of spiritual protection. In depictions, this symbol is typically placed above the head of an important deity. This symbolical representation means that beneath the chatra is the center of the universe. This is why some consider the chatra as a “mobile temple.”
If you want to learn more about the Chatra symbol, read on to find out the meaning, history, and significance of this Hindu and Buddhist symbol.
Chatra Symbol History
As one of the Ahtamangala or the Eight Auspicious Signs denoting the dharmachakra or Noble Eight-fold Path, the chatra or parasol/umbrella is recognized as an important part of Buddhist religion.
However, the chatra symbol is of Indian origin, which is no surprise since the Buddha himself was born in India.
In Hindu mythology, the chatra is the insignia of Varuna. It is seen as an embodiment of royalty or kingship.
Various Hindu gods are depicted with the chatra. Vishnu gave the white parasol as insignia of royalty to Kamesvara, one of the god Shiva’s many forms.
In Indian culture, only high dignitaries were allowed to use umbrellas. The largest ones, usually white in color, were reserved for the king and the gods. This is why the parasol has come to represent spiritual power.
Originally, the chatra was employed to symbolize its protective qualities since a parasol or umbrella is supposed to shield or protect one from the heat of the sun.
As time passed by, the chatra’s symbolical meaning came to denote general protection against defilements or any factor that may cause spiritual decline.
Eventually, the chatra or parasol has become symbolic of Ashtamangala or the Eight Auspicious Signs from the teachings and beliefs of the Tibetan monks.
The Chatra Symbol
The chatra is a parasol/umbrella symbol is believed to protect one from evil forces. It is also associated with equality and universality among men, but it has many other meanings different cultures and communities.
In Tibet, for example, persons of importance are entitled to different types of chatra—depending on their rank or status. Of course, the Dalai Lama is entitled to most types.
In other words, the chatra is a sign of honor and respect. It symbolizes the protection over the shadow that it casts.
The chatra is frequently featured in the thangkas or Buddhist paintings depicting traditional Tibetan medicine. It is used as a representation of sacred medicinal and hallucinogenic mushrooms of the Himalayan pharmacopeia.
In this manner, the chatra is used as a symbol of protection from sickness.
The chatra also represents the canopy of the sky, thus symbolizing the element ether and the vastness and unfolding of space. It also signifies the protective quality of the Sahasrara or the crown chakra.
Chatra Symbol Meaning
The chatra, also spelled chhatra, is the Sanskrit word for “parasol” or “umbrella.” According to the Sivapurana, “chatra” refers to the parasol or umbrella which forms part of the royal paraphernalia.
Chatra is also defined as one of the fourteen gems or ratna serving the Cakravartin, the universal king who rules the world in ethical and benevolent ways.
This chatra is a glittering white umbrella. It is not only used as a symbol of the Cakravartin’s dignity as a ruler, but also as a protective symbol since it is supposed to cripple his foe by its look.
