A fantastic hand-drawn book of illustration of the famous eight auspicious signs popular amongst Tibetans and Buddhists in general around the world. The illustrations are crisp and large and can be colored by all ages. Brief descriptions are also provided at the back of each illustration. These symbols represent peace, power, wisdom, enlightenment, protection, knowledge, pertaining to the practice of Dharma, of the teachings of Buddha on the path toward Enlightenment. The eight auspicious signs are:
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Wheel of Dharma - This symbol represents knowledge and understanding. The teachings of Buddha explain the awareness of the timeless wheel of life. The 8 spokes on the wheel represent the noble eightfold path, displayed above. It is said that an understanding of the cycle of life will stop the wheel from turning.
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Lotus Flower - The Lotus Flower represents purity and enlightenment. As it grows out of the mud and above it into a beautiful and blossoming, clean flower. As we may also grow out of our troubles into a clean and enlightened spirit.
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Parasol - The parasol, or umbrella, represents the protection of the practice of dharma, and protection from obstacles that may cause one to stray from the path of enlightenment.
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Golden Fish Pair - The pair of goldfish is a symbol representing fearlessness and freedom, to take on the bold, broad, and dangerous oceans, yet swim freely through them, without worry or trouble to suggest otherwise.
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Victory Banner - This symbol is a reminder of the victory over the constant fight against lust and temptations. The victory banner represents strength and solidity in the practice of dharma.
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Conch Shell - The conch shell represents a call to focus while the teachings of dharma are present. The delightful sound of the conch shell attracts the follower to attention.
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Treasure Vase - The vase is a reminder of the wealth of enlightenment and the many positive aspects gained through the practice of dharma.
- Endless Knot - The endless Knot represents the infinite connectivity of all things. It is a reminder of how the life of all things intertwines and the continuity of harmony and the practice of dharma.
Tibetan Children's Book series.
Eight Auspicious Signs Tibetan Coloring Book for all ages, Thupten Chakrishar, Independently published, Paperback, 43 pp, $8.00
Thupten N Chakrishar is a Tibetan writer, graphic artist, filmmaker, and community organizer. Due to a lack of Tibetan language children's books, Thupten started making his own for his daughters. Thanks to Amazon, now the books are available for everyone.
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