The Glorious [Endless] Knot (Tib. dpal be'u, Skt. srivatsa)

Email

Whatsapp

Facebook

Pinterest

Twitter

Copy link

The endless knot is a closed, graphic ornament composed of right-angled, intertwined lines. It is often associated with the Hindu srivatsa sign. In its earliest form, this seems to have been a naga symbol with two stylized snakes. Subsequently, a graphic symbol developed out of it which is described as representing a curl hair, or else a blossom with four or eight petals. For the Tibetans, the endless knot is the classic sign for tendrel, the way in which reality exists. The intertwining of the lines reminds us of how all phenomena are intertwined and dependent on causes and conditions. The whole is comprised of a pattern closed in on itself with no gaps, which at once expresses motion and rest, all in a representational form of great simplicity and fully balanced harmony. It is thus understandable that the endless knot is one of the favorite symbols in Tibetan culture. Used not only in connection with the Eight Symbols, it also appears quite frequently on its own. It reminds the viewer of tendrel, and is at the same time the simplest, clearest, and most concise expression of tendrel. It is therefore conceived as being auspicious in the highest degree. The mode of operation of this symbol is always experienced at many levels. Since all phenomena are interrelated, the placing of the endless knot on a gift or on a greeting card is understood to establish an auspicious connection between the giver and the recipient. At the same time, the recipient is supposed to be linked up with favorable circumstances in the future, being reminded that future positive effects have their roots in the causes of the present, which is what the theory of karma is all about.

Since the knot has no beginning and no end, it also symbolizes the infinite knowledge of the Buddha.

---

Free Shipping. Delivered by to all international destinations within 3 to 5 days, fully insured.

---