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Yantras
are geometrical figures intended to represent the basic
energies. Just as every elementary geometrical figure, a
straight line, a square, a cross or a triangle etc., has a
symbolic value corresponding to the basic notions, similarly,
the Yantras symbolise one or the other power or energy. In
other words Yantras are the graphic representations of
Mantras.
The power of Yantra
In
order to facilitate concentration by focusing our entire
energy on magic symbols the Yantras are made as vehicles of
mantras for attaining power. These are magic diagrams, which
represent cosmic forces or divinities. Once we know the
meaning of the symbols in Yantras we can attune our minds to
its cosmic vibrations. Like Mantras the true occult meaning of
Yantras is not divulged to all and cannot be grasped fully
through reading. It has to be experienced through the vision
of its radiance gained by the practice of yoga. The power of a
Yantra, when made �alive� through Mantra or other rituals
is limitless.
The
Signs, Symbols and Meaning of the Yantra
The
diagrams such as circles, triangles, squares and even a
�dot� are used as Yantras. All these represent cosmic
energies. A dot known as bindu in Sanskrit symbolizes all
pervading space�the origin of all that exists. In other
words it is the first manifestation of Supreme Being. In
meditation, most practitioners focus their glance on a single
�bindu� to help achieve concentration.
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The
triangle represents concentrated energy. If its apex
is point upwards, it is believe to symbolize fire, or
the active principle, or the Cosmic Purusha�the male
energy.
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It
also represents the mental activity./ the triangle
pointing downwards represent the element water, which
tends to flow downwards seeking its level. It is
associated with the passive principle or the cosmic
nature or Prakriti�the female energy.
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The
Yantra formed by two triangles penetrating one another is the
most commonly used diagram. It forms a figure of star hexagon,
which represents the birth of universe. When the two triangles
separate, with only their apex touching one another, forming
an hourglass,
it
shows the destructive principle where the time or universe
ceases to exist. In Hinduism the symbols of Aum, Swastika and
trident, are considered auspicious and commonly used as
protection or prayer symbols. I shall be giving a few examples
of some well-known Yantras, though deriving benefits through
these depends largely on the individual practice.
Yantra
Raja (The King of Yantras)
How
to Draw
This
Yantra is drawn beginning with a triangle. As already stated
the triangle represents development, existence, fire, and one
with its apex pointing upwards�the male principle. In its
centre is the character Hrim, the seed of illusion or the
thought, unmanifested. What it signifies is that a manifest
male principle i.e. cosmic energy, which summons cosmic
nature, the female principle, in order to set the forces of
creation into play. Around the triangle are drawn two circles.
This represents the revolutions of all the planets that make
existence possible. It also symbolise the time. In these
concentric circle is drawn the earth, or the earthy city, with
straight lines and having four entrances, representing four
direction. When this Yantra is drawn along with reciting
mantras with full concentration and with the idea to please
the Cosmic Forces, the Yantra appears resplendent. It is
advisable to draw Yantra either with a gold needle or with the
thorn of the bel (wood apple) tree on a piece of gold or
silver, or copper.
The
meaning of the symbol
The
centre of this Yantra with the character Hrim, signifies the
goddess of fortune�Lakshmi. And the triangle in a circle
also represents the coiled energy (Kundalini). The sixteen
filaments of the lotus represent the attainment of perfection.
It is believed sixteen is the perfect number. The eight petals
of lotus signify the all-pervading ascendancy principle�the
Vishnu. The worshipper seeks the blessings from the lord
Vishnu and his consort Lakshmi. The outer circle represent
that exists. The square around this circle is also known as
the square of power, which gives the worshipper the control
over that which exists. This square is also symbolic of the
manifest world or the earth. The four entrances or gates of
the earth lead to the outer worlds. The gate to the north
(left in the diagram) is the gateway to gods (Devagana). To
the South (right) is the gate of the ancestors (Pritrayana).
To the east (above) is the gate to the priestly solar way and
to the west (down) is the gate to the royal way, the way of
the lords of water (Lord Varuna). The four gates lead to four
directions, forming the cross, the symbol of universality.
This cross further develops into a double Swastika which
indicates the return to the principle through both the left
hand and the right hand way.
Precaution
for drawing this Yantra
While
drawing this Yantra, the worshipper must observe certain rules
to avoid error, and also to avoid calamity. When delving with
power objects, it is imperative to observe certain rules.
Hence even though this appears to be a geometrical figure, its
potency to grant boon or to strike evil is known to the
practitioners of Tantra and Mantra. One should approach an
adept to seek the blessings and request for the gift of this
Yantra, which then not only bestows great wealth and
happiness, but also protects the person and the place where
this Yantra is installed. However, normally, those who possess
Siddhis or power are not very liberal in giving this powerful
Yantra to anyone who seeks, not even for the lure of money or
other consideration. It is generally given to those considered
pious, generous, and deserving; for as we already know such a
powerful Yantra, in wrong hands, can cause greater harm than
good. Through worship, prayer and austere living, one can
acquire the virtues to deserve the Yantra Raja and is destined
to achieve its blessings.
The
Advantage
The
purpose of this Yantra is to establish contact with
supernatural worlds. In the centre, the character hrim stands
for the goddess of wealth. This can be kept in one�s house,
or in one�s wallet.
The
Star Hexagon
The
star hexagon is one of the most common in Yantras. It is made
of two triangles penetrating one another. Upright triangle
represents Cosmic Energy--- the male principle. Downwards
triangle represents Cosmic Nature--- the female principle.
The
Advantage
Star
Hexagon can be kept to attain a happy balance between material
prosperity and spiritual strength.
The Sri Chakra (The
Wheel Of Fortune)
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This
represents the Universal Goddess. Propitiating this
Yantra brings prosperity and wealth. This Yantra
should be drawn on gold, or silver, or copperleaf.
This can be kept in one�s house, in an almirah, or a
temple, or even one can even keep it in one�s wallet
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