1. What is Sri Yantra?
The Sri Yantra is a sacred geometric form representing the universe. In Hinduism, the Sri Yantra is a symbol of balance, harmony and synthesis of opposites. The Sri Yantra has nine triangles and is often used for the meditation. One triangle represents the earth element, the trunk or base of the body, while three triangles represent air, the second eye or mental view of the mind, and the last, the spirit or aspect of life.
The trunk or the base of the Sri Yantra is said to represent the earth. The triangle symbolises anconnection of consciousness with the fifth chakra (spinal chakra), giving rise to the mind, which is based on the earth. Because of the variable nature of the symbol, it is a superb tool for self-study.
Some of the famous geometric symbols of the Yantra are the Mandala, the Pentagram, the Tree of Life, which are found in most religious texts.
The nine-pointed star represents the rising sun. The Linga or the universe is folded in on itself as yin and yang, feminine and masculine, support each other.
Other symbols that can be found in the Sri Yantra are Chakra-Chingra, Vat, Shakti, Guru, etc.
This traditional symbol is also prevalent in Buddhism, Jainism, Hinduism, Islam, Confucianism, Taoism and even Native American culture.
