Disclaimer: this post dives into some territory that some may consider a bit bumpy. There’s no pressure to keep reading if that’s not your scene today; remember: self-care is key, and sometimes that means taking a mental break.
This post comes from a discussion with a stranger on social media who didn’t realise that the swastika is a complex symbol with a long history, which – while appropriated, and given a terrible meaning, by Nazis, it also holds religious significance in other cultures.
You may have seen a swastika (卐 or 卍) somewhere in your yoga journey – maybe on a mūrti (idol), in a photo, or on tapestry, or perhaps on a vintage print or even on a fellow practitioner’s mat. You may have been concerned when you saw it – after all – this ancient symbol may be confused for a newer one that has a lot of baggage.
So, let’s ditch the confusion and unpack the swastika’s history together.
Om̐ Śānti, Not Hate
This mantra, frequently chanted in yoga classes, translates to “peace,” and it’s a fitting introduction to the original meaning of the swastika, which originated in South Asia.
The word itself comes from Sáṃskṛta (and is “svastika”, rather than the anglicised “swastika”) and means “conducive to wellbeing” or “auspicious lucky mark”; in fact, svastika specifically references the right-facing, or clockwise, symbol (卐), which relates to Sūrya or the sun, prosperity, & good luck; while the left-facing, or anti-clockwise, symbol (卍) is called sauvastika, and relates to night or tantric aspects of the goddess Kālī.
For thousands of years both the svastika and sauvastika, have been symbols of auspiciousness, representing prosperity, good luck, and the divine. In Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, it represents things like the four directions, the cycle of life, and spiritual balance. It’s a reminder of the interconnectedness of the universe and the constant flow of energy.
Hijacked History
Fast forward to the 20th century, and the svastika takes a horrific turn. In the hands of the Nazi party, the symbol was twisted (both literally and figuratively) into a tool of hate and division. The tilted arms and black colour became synonymous with a regime that sought to eradicate entire groups of people. In changing its form, they also changed its name – the Nazi symbol is properly called the “hakenkreuz”, or “hooked cross”.
This conection is undeniable, and it’s important to be mindful of the symbol’s power to evoke fear, pain, and memories of oppression; and it’s a stark reminder of how symbols can be perverted to serve malicious agendas.
The Nazi appropriation of the svastika into the hakenkreuz is a chilling example of how cultural symbols can be stolen and weaponised. It also teaches us the importance of staying informed about the history and context of symbols, whether that’s those we encounter in our yoga practice, or elsewhere in the world.
Svastika in the Studio?
So, what does this mean for you in your practice, and possibly even at your local yoga studio? Here’s the deal: some folks might feel uncomfortable if they see a svastika, and that’s completely valid. We all can’t know the full history of everything, and this isn’t commonly discussed in places where it might actually be deemed appropriate.
As our practice is rooted in creating a safe and inclusive space for everyone, we wouldn’t want a student coming to unwind & reconnect to be confronted with a symbol that triggers valid feelings of fear or exclusion for them. That’s definitely not the vibe we’re going for.
Let’s be honest, even if you personally don’t feel negatively affected by the svastika, it’s always important to consider the experiences & feelings of others.
Yoga is a practice that welcomes people of all backgrounds, and I for one want to make sure everyone feels comfortable and supported. If a symbol has the potential to divide, I feel it’s best to err on the side of caution in the creation of a space that feels inclusive for all.
Finding Balance
Here’s the yogic approach: cultivate awareness, educate yourself, and approach situations with an open mind. If you’re unsure about seeing a svastika in the studio, it’s always okay to ask the studio owner or teacher about its origin and context. Open communication is key.
Let them know you’re curious and that you appreciate their willingness to share their knowledge – or lack of, if they admit they’re unsure. This kind of open dialogue fosters a sense of community and respect for diverse traditions.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to display a svastika in a yoga space rests with the studio owner; but by opening the conversation, we can all become more informed and understanding.
Beyond the Symbol
But let’s also remember that yoga is about so much more than the stuff on & around our mats. It’s about connecting with ourselves, with others, and with something larger than ourselves. This philosophy extends far beyond the physical postures and prāṇāyāma (breathwork).
Yoga is a way of life, and the yama (ethical guidelines) that guide our practice on the mat – things like ahiṃsā (non-violence), satya (truthfulness), and asteya (non-stealing) – are meant to be applied in our interactions with the world around us, too. So, while navigating the complexities of cultural symbols is important, let’s not lose sight of the bigger picture: cultivating peace, understanding, and compassion
That is the true essence of yoga, and it’s something we can all strive for, regardless of whether there’s a svastika hanging in the studio or not.
A Symbol’s Evolution
Both the svastika and the hakenkreuz highlight the power symbols can hold, as well as how their visual representation and meaning can be mangled and marred.
In our yoga practice, we explore the concept of ahiṃsā, this extends beyond the physical practice, and into how we navigate the world. If a symbol of peace can be appropriated and twisted into a tool of hate, it emphasises the importance of staying informed and approaching cultural touchstones with sensitivity.
Moving Forward with Open Hearts
The beauty of yoga lies in its ability to bring people together from all walks of life; by simply acknowledging the complexities of symbols like the svastika, we can foster a more inclusive & understanding environment, both in our classes, studios, and beyond.
So, let’s keep the conversation going! Keep asking questions, learn from each other, and continue to cultivate a practice that celebrates peace, unity, and the interconnectedness of all things.
Further Exploration
As yogis, we’re lifelong learners. If you’re curious to dive deeper into the svastika’s history and diverse meanings across cultures, here are some resources:
The svastika’s presence in yoga spaces is just one example of how cultural symbols can spark important conversations. As practitioners who strive to embody the yāma & niyama in all things, we can extend this awareness into our daily lives. Whether it’s encountering a symbol on someone’s clothing, or even a religious icon in a friend’s home, approaching these situations with curiosity and a desire to understand can open doors to meaningful connections and a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of human experience.