Lotus in the hands of Buddha, “Lotus Sutra”, lotus pose in yoga, born from lotus - this flower in the mythology and religions of the East is perhaps the most popular and mysterious. His image is often mentioned in ancient traditions and texts, and he was and is still used in religious rites and spiritual practices.
Usually growing in muddy, almost stagnant water or in swamps, far from noisy cities, the lotus is pure and beautiful. Every evening he closes his flower and hides under the water, and in the morning he appears again. But its flower always remains dry, radiating purity and freshness. The reason for this is the special structure of the petals and leaves: they can repel water and self-clean. Therefore, it is compared to the spirit: just as the spirit is not stained by matter, so the lotus is not stained by the silt from which it grows, and therefore it personifies eternal life, the immortal nature of man, spiritual revelation. The lotus is also an emblem of perfection as its leaves, flowers and fruits form a circle. Lotus petals resemble the rays of the sun. Growing among the primordial chaos, it symbolizes the center of the universe.
Lotus - a symbol of purity and enlightenment
The lotus is a flower that closes its petals every evening and hides in the dirty swamp water, only to return in the early morning as soon as the first rays of the sun appear in the sky. It symbolizes rebirth, spiritual purity and peace of life in its beauty and grace.
Opening its flower at dawn, the Lotus became a sign of youth, immortality and renewed vitality. Its petals resemble the rays of the Sun, and the bud itself forms a circle, like the center of the universe.
The secret meaning of the Lotus sign denotes three stages of human spiritual development:
- Ignorance;
- Overcoming ignorance;
- Gained understanding, enlightenment.
In the religion of Buddhism, the Lotus flower is often depicted either in the hands of the Buddha and his followers, or they sit on it as if on a throne.
The lotus is an image of creation, the original universe, emerging from the waters or emptiness.
Botanical description of lotus
Photo: Lotus flower on water
Lotus is a type of aquatic perennial herbaceous plant, the rhizome of which grows to a height of 150 centimeters and extends 3 meters in length. The stem is round, 60-90 centimeters long, glabrous, gray, dark green, covered with a network of microscopic hairs; the petioles are long and rise above the water. There are three types of leaves: underwater, floating and above-water. The flower grows solitary, up to 25 centimeters in diameter; sepals elliptical or ovate, 1.5-5×1-3.5 centimeters, concave, green or pinkish-green. A photo of a lotus flower is shown in the picture below. Petals are elliptical, 4-15x2-8 centimeters, concave, color depends on the species. Stamens are numerous.
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The fruit is a nut-like seed, oblong-ovoid in shape. Determining what type of plant a lotus belongs to helps to understand its seed, since the embryo grows 2 lateral cotyledons; hence the name - dicotyledons.
The meaning of the colors of the sacred Lotus
Lotus colors have different meanings and interpretations.
White Lotus
The white color of the Lotus belongs to the goddess “White Tara”, who eliminates dangers and gives long life without suffering. It is the color of healing and brings good luck.
Red Lotus
Red color represents purity of heart. It symbolizes purity of thoughts in love and empathy.
Blue Lotus
The blue color of the Lotus is a symbol of the victory of the spiritual over the sensual. He personifies wisdom and great knowledge. The blue emblem signifies modesty and purity.
Pink Lotus
The Pink Lotus is a symbol of the presence of the Divine and is associated with Buddha. The legend says that at the birth of Prince Gautama, the clouds in the sky burst into an extraordinary lotus rain. And during his stay on earth, wherever he walked, a graceful Lotus of enormous size grew.
In Ancient Japan
The Japanese believed that the lotus bud represents purity, not susceptible to the negative influences of the environment. Buddhist painting and temple culture were developed in Japan. The lotus was a necessary attribute in temples. Buddha was often depicted on his throne in the form of this flower.
After accepting Buddhism, the Japanese learned about the Lotus Sutra (one of the cycles of Buddha's sermons). In the 8th century it was recognized as one of the sutras that protect the country. The authority of this canonical text increased in the 9th century. after the Tendai Buddhist school was declared the state church.
The Japanese have long been committed to fresh flowers and their cultivation. White and pink lotuses are grown in Japanese park ponds. They are mentioned in folk poems and songs. People in this country have come up with many culinary recipes using the root of this plant.
Secret meanings of Lotus
The image of the Lotus is often mentioned in ancient books of spiritual practices. The symbolism of a flower varies depending on the number of petals:
- 5 petals - a symbol of the five stages of human life: birth, education, marriage, rest, death;
- 7 petals - a symbol of seven planets;
- 8 petals - a symbol of eternal oblivion;
- 9 petals - a symbol of a person;
- 12 petals are a symbol of the Divine and the Universe.
In Egypt, the Lotus is a symbol of life. This sacred flower was found everywhere: in houses, on clothes, as a decoration for the festive table and wedding bed. The funeral ceremony must necessarily include a wreath of flowers, as a symbol of the resurrection of a person.
The lotus represents rebirth and the regaining of youth, just as the old God dies to be reborn again young and full of vitality.
In China, the Lotus is a symbol of chastity and signifies spiritual perfection, purity and grace.
Drink of Oblivion
Herodotus in his writings described a country where the inhabitants of the “lotophagi” eat lotus flowers. They possessed the secret knowledge of the “drink of oblivion.” Anyone who tempts him at least once will forever remain in the flower’s homeland. The decoction completely erased a person’s memory of his true intentions in a foreign land and memories of his real homeland.
Odysseus, once on this land, almost lost his people, who treated themselves to the “drink of oblivion.” They refused to return home, and Odysseus was forced to tie them to benches on the deck of the ship.
Historians of our time have found the lands of lotophages. This place turned out to be the tropical island of Djerba, where several species of an amazing and mystical plant called lotus grow.
Lotus Temple
In Hinduism
Hindus in ancient times depicted the Earth in the form of a lotus blossoming over water. According to legend, while Vishnu (the creator of the world) was resting in the primordial waters, a flower grew from his navel. Brahma appeared in the bowl of the plant, who created our Universe.
Vishnu's wife is Lakshmi (goddess of happiness, beauty and wealth). According to myth, she came out of the ocean with a lotus in her hands when the gods created the ocean. There is another version: the goddess surfaced on a flower from the primordial waters.
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The sacred plant was considered in ancient India in two parts. As a reflection of the solar principle, it is a symbol of the solar gods (Vishnu and Surya), and according to the lunar principle, it is a symbol of the goddess of moisture Lakshmi. The sacred plant is a symbol of 2 manifestations of life: the passive side is the immutability of the Universe, its eternal existence, the active side is the activity of a person in revealing his abilities. This is explained by the fact that the plant stem is under water, and the calyx is above its surface.
Located on the threshold of a Hindu temple, the lotus symbolizes the pure abode of the deity. A plant with 3 stems signifies the tripartite aspect of time, which includes past events, those happening now, and those that are yet to happen. The center of the flower represents Mount Meru - the world axis located in the center of the Earth.
The Lotus symbol in modern interpretations
The mystical properties of the Lotus for our contemporaries lie in the flower’s ability to cleanse the bioenergy field around a person from negative vibrations.
The lotus aura relieves melancholy and depression. Moreover, it brings you out of a state of depressed mood very gradually, which provides a stable remission and prevents you from falling into the blues again. Such a gentle effect has a beneficial effect on the human psyche, giving him the opportunity to gradually adapt to the realities of the world around him.
The ability to change human consciousness
Lotus flowers have a beneficial effect on a person’s consciousness, guiding his musli towards spiritual development.
There is a practice called “lotus therapy”, based on sacred secrets about the power and strong impact of this flower on a person. This practice is recommended for people who do not care about the spiritual side of their lives and are completely focused on their career and making money.
“Lotus therapy” involves either carrying the petals of a plant with you or observing it for half an hour. Those who have done this exercise unanimously declare that consciousness does change. A desire for self-improvement and spiritual development appears.
Esoterics vs science: flower symbol
In esoteric practice, the lotus flower eliminates negative vibrations. It is believed that a photo of a lotus or an art image of it can become a cleansing amulet. The plant can also be used instead of asparagus and marmalade can be made from its seeds.
And how many amazing jewelry there are with this ancient symbol
This divine symbol in various religions carries its sacred meaning about:
- life and health
- rebirth and oblivion
- fertility
- masculine and feminine
- spiritual self-improvement
- awakening, the beginning of a new cycle
- love and compassion
These flowers of extraordinary beauty are always drawn to the light
A blooming lotus is a perennial plant; its diameter can reach 30 cm. In the photo you can see that its bud is always turned towards the sun. The lotus is listed in the Red Book, so it is already special. Science has confirmed that lotus preparations act as tonics, cardiotonics and general tonics.
"Pink Lily of the Nile" - a sacred and miraculous plant
Its geography covers the waters of America, Hawaii and other parts of the world (more details in the photo). The flowering plant is found in Asian countries, India and Australia. The most amazing Lotus Valley is located in Russia, on the Taman Peninsula. This is an ideal place for travel, wedding ceremonies, and unforgettable photo and video sessions.
The flower of paradise lives in lakes and reservoirs
Who said you can't get away with it? In some photos you can see a waxy coating on the petals and beautiful pearlescent tints. Water does not linger on their surface, but rolls off in drops.
The meaning and magical properties of the Lotus amulet
The magical amulet in the form of a Lotus flower contains a powerful force that puts a barrier against negative thoughts and conflicts directed at you.
In Eastern practice, it is believed that a flower in the house cleanses the room of negative Sha energy and transforms it into Qi.
It is better to make a talisman for your home from transparent rock crystal. A paper lotus, which you can make yourself from a white sheet, is also suitable. A product placed in the house will bring peace, get rid of negative thoughts and contribute to the acquisition of wisdom.
If a Lotus amulet is placed in a children's room, then the child's energy will be directed to the development of creativity and creativity.
Modern practices
The image of a lotus reminds us of the quality of the mind - its original luminous nature, which is always present in us, despite the defilements acquired by the force of karma. To concentrate the mind during meditation, especially in the early stages of practice, the correct posture, which is called the “lotus position,” is very important. By straightening your back, crossing your legs and folding your arms with your palms up, a person really becomes outwardly similar to this flower: the limbs are associated with the petals, and the arrow-straight back is associated with the stem.
The lotus pose is taught by yogis. When visualizing their energy system, they imagine the chakras (energy centers) as lotuses of different colors, with different numbers of petals facing up or down. Energy flows, passing through the chakras, burst upward through the most important of them, located in the crown area. The crown chakra is called sahasrara, that is, the thousand-petalled lotus.
The lotus plant (which can be found in different countries, including Russia - mainly in the Volga delta and the Far East) also finds its practical application in people's lives. Rosary beads are made from lotus seeds, which grow the size of a nut. Since ancient times, lotuses have provided people with both food and medicine for many diseases. In traditional Chinese, Indian, Vietnamese, and Tibetan medicine, all parts of the plant were used to prepare medicines. The unique properties of the lotus seem to symbolize the qualities of bodhisattvas who strive to benefit all living beings.
How to activate the magical properties of amulets and amulets
To activate the amulet and endow it with magical powers, it is recommended to take it in your hand and perform meditation.
- Close your eyes;
- Imagine a clear lake full of beautiful lotus flowers;
- Imagine yourself sitting on a huge flower;
- Feel the warmth and light energy that comes from bottom to top and fills every cell of your body with vital energy;
- Now imagine how the energy passes into the amulet that you hold in your palm and it begins to fill with sparkling shine.
This meditation should be repeated daily in the morning or afternoon for 8 days. It is not recommended to do it in the evening, as the body gets tired and weak by the end of the day.
Only such an amulet charged with energy will protect you and protect you from negative influences.
Unactivated amulets are worn as decoration, but they do not provide any power or protection to their owner.
“Lotus flowers are a ship on which someone drowning in the ocean of life can find salvation.”
Useful and medicinal properties (chemical composition)
Scientists write reports and articles on the topic that pharmacological substances contain lotus seeds, leaves, flowers and rhizomes. Chemical constituents include alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides and polyphenols, and minerals.
The seeds contain protein, amino acids, unsaturated fatty acids, minerals, starch and tannins. The composition includes the following alkaloids: N-nornciferin, O-nornciferin, nuciferin and rimerin.
Photo: Lotus
The starch in the rhizomes is comparable to corn and potato starch. Vitamin content includes: thiamine - 0.22 mg per 100 g, riboflavin - 0.6 mg per 100 g, niacin - 2.10 mg per 100 g and ascorbic acid - 1.5 mg per 100 g.
The seeds are classified as astringent and beneficial for the kidneys, spleen and heart. They are used to treat weak sexual function in men and leukorrhea in women. The seeds also help in treating anxiety, palpitations and insomnia. The leaves are used in combination with other herbs to treat sunstroke, dysentery, fever and vomiting of blood.
Treatment and prevention
The blue lotus is rare in our latitudes, let alone in countries with warm climates. There it is widely used as a decorative flower to decorate ponds. But are borders now an obstacle to the spread of drug addiction? There are no restrictions on the illegal market.
Therefore, it is important to pay attention to preventive work among young people and adolescents, who very quickly fall under the influence of new psychoactive compounds. Parents, teachers, educators, law enforcement agencies, doctors and the media must get involved in this work.
Together, it is necessary to convey reliable data about the dangers of this exotic plant and the consequences of its regular use. Otherwise, young people will need the help of a narcologist to overcome their addiction to plant drugs.
With occasional use of the substance, a person can independently give up the addiction. This will require the mobilization of internal strength and the support of loved ones. But with long-term and regular use, complex treatment in the clinic cannot be avoided. And the sooner you turn to specialists, the faster the healing process will be.
The program of necessary medical measures may include: counseling, diagnostics, detoxification, medication and psychotherapy, and a recovery period. The doctor selects the treatment method and dosage of pharmacological drugs for each patient.
Do not be fooled by false descriptions of blue lotus as an herbal and safe sedative. We dwelled in detail on what the substance consists of, how it is used and what consequences threaten when taking it. Maybe this information will save someone from making a rash and rash decision.
The effect of blue lotus on humans
The severity and duration of the narcotic effect depends on the method of administration, the quantity and concentration of the substance taken. Typically this period lasts from one to five hours. With short-term use, a person experiences:
- euphoria, peace and positive mood;
- relaxation and calmness;
- change in visual perception: colors seem brighter and more saturated;
- detachment from all problems and troubles;
- dizziness and slight weakness;
- slowed thinking abilities and lethargy;
- increased sexual desire;
- increased tactile sensations;
- auditory and visual hallucinations.
With long-term use, constant headaches, muscle relaxation, discomfort in the heart, surges in blood pressure, manifestations of aggression, fear and panic attacks make themselves felt.
Literature:
- Kolesov D.V. Evolution of the psyche and the nature of drug addiction. – Voronezh: Publishing house. house of the Russian academician Education (RAO), 2006. – 397 p.
- Chistova L. E. Investigation of the illegal cultivation of drug-containing plants. – Moscow: Yurlitinform, 2015. – 179 p.
- Matchin G. A. Healthy lifestyle and its components: textbook. – Orenburg: OGPU Publishing House, 2013. – 187 p.
- Makeeva A.G. Avoiding trouble: Ped. prevention of drug abuse among schoolchildren. – 2nd ed. – Moscow: Education, 2004. – 190 p.
Rules for growing and caring for plants at home
The flowers of the plant will color a pond or pond. But first, familiarize yourself with the growing conditions.
Growing
- Place the seeds in a glass of warm water, first apply a tripe to one end.
- Discard seeds that float on the surface of the water because they may not be fertile.
- Change the water every day until they sprout.
- Plant the seeds in 10cm pots filled with good garden soil by making a hole in the pot and planting one seed in each pot. Gently cover the root with soil or gravel.
- Place the pot in a bright place.
- Please note that the flowers are unlikely to bloom for the first year after planting.
Care
- Large amounts of fertilizer cause leaf burn.
- Feed the established plant every 3 or 4 weeks during the growing season.
- It is important to protect lotus roots from freezing.
- Lotus can overwinter in a pond if the pond depth is below the frost line for your area.
- In late autumn, cut off the yellowed foliage and lower the plant into the deepest part of the pond.
Harm of the Egyptian lily to the body
It would seem that a harmless and beautiful flower cannot pose any danger to humans. But this is not true at all. It is not for nothing that this plant has been included in the list of narcotic substances since 2009 and is prohibited for distribution and use in Russia. And all because of the consequences that come from taking this exotic drug. The patient has:
- disorders of the respiratory system: inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nasal and oral cavity, frequent pneumonia, chronic bronchitis, pulmonary failure;
- cardiovascular complications: blood pressure surges, arrhythmia, strokes;
- deterioration in the functionality of the liver and kidneys;
- gastrointestinal disorders;
- decrease in the body's defenses;
- psycho-emotional deviations: memory problems, weakening of mental abilities, psychotic manifestations.
Using lotus together with alcohol or other psychotropic compounds not only increases the narcotic effect, but also increases the risks for humans several times. In this case, it is very difficult to predict the effect of each component of the man-made mixture, and even more so it is impossible to calculate the safe amount of each product.
Therefore, the likelihood of severe poisoning or overdose increases , in which medical attention is urgently needed. Otherwise, irreversible physical and mental disorders may develop and even death may occur.
Meaning in Egyptian culture
In Ancient Egypt, the lotus symbolized oblivion and sweet sleep. This is due to the fact that the moon lotus grows in the Nile Delta: it opens its inflorescences only at night. The white Egyptian lotus was considered sacred.
This flower was a symbol:
- the dying and resurrecting god Osiris;
- fertility goddess Isis;
- solar deity Ra.
The blue flower was associated with awakening from sleep and spiritual insight. It opened its petals at sunrise and sank into the water in the evening twilight.
In Egypt there is a sign: the abundance of blooming lotus in the Nile Delta promises a bountiful harvest.
The Egyptians identified the lotus with light: lunar or solar. It was from this flower that the solar god Ra was born. The Egyptians also believed that the flower (blue) would help the dead wake up in the afterlife, so they placed it in tombs. The image of the deceased with a lotus flower symbolizes awakening in the spiritual world, the resurrection of the dead.
A headdress in the shape of a blossoming flower adorned the head of another Egyptian deity, Nefertum. He oversaw the vegetation on the land. The Egyptians believed that Nefertum falls asleep every evening in a flower and plunges into the water of a sacred lake with it, and in the morning awakens with the open petals of a wonderful lotus.
The lotus symbolism of Ancient Egypt is visible everywhere: the tops of columns were decorated with the likeness of petals, jewelry was made in the shape of a flower, even household containers repeated the shape of a wonderful lotus.
From Egypt, the lotus theme penetrated into Greek culture. So, this flower was dedicated to the goddesses Aphrodite and Hera. The ancient Greek Hercules made his water travels in a lotus-shaped boat.
