Zen symbols are signs you can use to channel inner peace. You may not need zen symbols to practice the zen lifestyle, but they can help. Every sense that you put zen into will enhance your state of calm and enlightenment.
What Is Zen?
Zen is a Buddhist philosophy dating back to the 11th century. It is a practice used to connect to the universe and be enlightened to the truths of ultimate reality.
For most, it is a way to practice selflessness, find inner peace, and appreciate the little things in life.
What Does Zen Mean Spiritually?
Spiritually, zen is a way to seek the truth. Buddha introduced the spiritual practice of zen meditation as a way to be more compassionate and wise.
No words are needed to practice zen meditation, which was a new concept whenever it was introduced.
Principles Of Zen
- There is no end – whether in death or a project, nothing is ever over. There is always room for improvement and another chance.
- Becoming nothing – this is not a devaluing practice but a way to detach from the physical world and float in the vast emptiness of everything. In turn, we become nothing, and yet, everything.
- Do not fear – we all have different fears because our fears are born within us rather than externally. Zen principles encourage us to let go of fear to free ourselves.
- You are the universe – we are all connected, and this principle affirms that we are all waves in the same ocean.
- Don’t judge – a strong Buddhist belief is not to judge or make assumptions.
- Disconnecting from self – the foreign concept regards the spiritual act of seeing yourself as part of the universe, gaining awareness of how our negative emotions are just problems we create rather than reality.
- Don’t overthink – wisdom is what guides zen principles, and it tells us not to overcomplicate life.
- Be grateful and respectful – of all things.
What Are Zen Symbols?
Zen symbols are pictures that encourage a zen mindset. You can use them during meditation or when you are not meditating to keep a calm atmosphere.
The symbols vary depending on cultures, but they generally encourage a peaceful and compassionate body, mind, and soul.
What Do Zen Symbols Do?
Zen symbols can enhance your meditative experience. They are wonderful reminders of where you came from and where you want to go, keeping your mind on the simple things in life.
What Colors Symbolize Zen?
Earthy colors are symbols of zen. Because your area should be peaceful and not distracting, zen colors are natural greens, grays, and browns.
Blue is sometimes added as the sky or the ocean, adding to the peaceful atmosphere.
Which Flower Is A Symbol Of Zen?
The lotus flower is the ultimate symbol of zen. They are considered sacred in Buddhism, with the lotus flowering emerging from the mud with purity, unbothered by the tainted waters.
This is a good representation of the zen state. Lotus flowers have become so prominent in the zen mindset that they have crossed over to many cultures with new meanings, all based on enlightenment.
- Purity
- Rebirth
- Beauty
- Fertility
- Growth
- Longevity
- Wealth
- Knowledge
Animal Zen Symbols
- Panda – an animal that avoids conflict and is immersed in symbolism in Eastern Asian cultures.
- Deer – deer are peaceful animals who seem at one with nature.
- Sloth – an animal that loves the simple things in life, never getting caught up in a rush.
- Koi Fish – a common Japanese fish that represents yin-yang, peace, and longevity.
- Crane – another Japanese symbolic animal that represents longevity and peace, a common origami gift.
Which Angel Numbers Are Symbols Of Zen?
Every number has a zen meaning, similar to angel numbers. But only certain angel numbers are directly associated with zen.
Angel Number 108
Angel number 108 is a zen symbol. It represents the universe, often seen as the answer to the universe’s equation. It is also a very spiritual number in Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism.
Angel Number 2222
Angel number 2222 is a zen symbol of balance. This is an important aspect of zen meditation because balance in all things is necessary for enlightenment.
Angel Number 212
Angel number 212 stands for guidance and protection. The one is being protected by the twos, a perfect symbol for zen meditation and the journey you take to enlightenment.
8 Zen Symbols To Enlightenment
1. Om
The Om symbol is a Hindu letter that is considered the sound of the universe. It’s a common sound and visual symbol used when in zen meditation.
2. Yin and Yang
The perfect balance of Yin and Yang represents zen. If you seek harmony, you can have the ideal zen mindset because peace and harmony are the center of enlightment.
3. Dharmachakra
The Dharma Wheel is a common symbol of zen. Each spoke represents a different philosophy that, when combined, creates a perfect balance. Other parts of the wheel represent morality, practice, and meditation.
4. Mala Beads
Mala beads are a popular tangible zen symbol. There are 108 beads on the common mala strand, with each bead representing one person and the strand representing how we are all connected.
5. Bell
The Buddhist bell is used to summon monks and nuns and help them to live in the moment. They are common in the meditation process, often ringing in specific melodic patterns.
6. Enso
The Enso circle is a sacred Buddhist symbol of zen. It is a common Japanese calligraphy character that represents mindfulness.
7. Hamsa
The Hamsa Hand is an old symbol found in many cultures. In zen Buddhism, it represents the chakras that flow through us and how mudras can help channel each one differently.
8. Waterdrop
The waterdrop is a zen symbol of harmony and connectedness. It is a metaphor for spiritual purification and the metronome of life that keeps us grounded through enlightenment.