The Endless Knot Symbol

The Endless Knot is a closed, graphic design composed of right-angled, intertwined lines. It overlaps without a beginning or an end. It symbolizes the Buddha's endless wisdom and compassion and relates universal continuity as the underlying reality of existence.

Duality
It is conjectured that The Endless Knot may have evolved from the Naga, an ancient symbol of two intertwined snakes. The dueling snake image signifies the dramatic interplay and interaction of the opposing forces in the world; good and evil. Eventually the two are united as one, and create harmony in the universe.

Harmony and Balance
The intertwining of these lines also represents how all events, past, present and future, are bound by a never-ending cycle of cause and effect. Thus, the whole pattern is closed in on itself with no gaps, leading to a universal design of great simplicity and fully balanced harmony.

Karma
Since everything in the Universe is interrelated, the placing of the Endless Knot on a gift or greeting card is understood to establish an auspicious connection between the giver and the recipient. The recipient is led to righteous karma, by being reminded that future positive effects have their roots in the actions of the present. This is because the knot represents a connection, a link with our fates, binding us to our karmic destiny.

Not surprisingly, this is one of the most favorite symbols in Tibetan Buddhism.

Sources
- This article incorporates text by Nitin Kumar of Exotic India, used by permission of the author.
- "The Eight Auspicious Symbols." Buddha.Net

1. Precious Parasol
The umbrella represents protection and shields us from disaster and enduring suffering.

2. Golden Fish
The golden fish symbolizes freedom. The freedom of the fish to swim through water and our freedom to move through life without fear.

3. Vase of Treasure
The treasure vase symbolizes the blessings attainable in this world, including wealth, and a long life.

4. Lotus
The lotus flower represents the purification of our body and mind by the deeds that we perform.

5. White Conch
The conch shell symbolizes the 'Om", which allows us to summon our courage and accomplish great things for a greater common good.

6. Endless Knot
The auspicious drawing stands for the union of wisdom and compassion at the time of enlightenment.

7. Victory Banner
The victory banner represents our victory against outside forces and obstacles that cross our path.

8. Dharma Wheel
The golden wheel represents Buddha's doctrine, and how by continuing to follow that doctrine, we can find joy.