swastika etymology

Etymology

The word "swastika" is derived from Sanskrit and is composed of two parts:

• Su: meaning "good" or "well"
• Asti: meaning "being"

Meaning and Origin

The swastika is an ancient symbol that has been used in various cultures across the world. In its original context, it represented:

• Prosperity and Good Luck: It was believed to bring good fortune and blessings.
• The Sun and Heavens: The four arms of the swastika were often associated with the four cardinal directions, the sun, and the divine forces above.
• Wholeness and Balance: The arms of the swastika form a symmetrical cross, representing harmony and the interconnectedness of all things.

Use in Different Cultures

The swastika has been used in various cultures throughout history, including:

• Ancient India: Hindus and Buddhists used it as a religious symbol to represent divine power and protection.
• Ancient Greece: Known as the "gammadion," it was associated with the god Zeus and represented the sun's rays.
• Ancient Rome: It was used as a decorative element on temples and buildings.
• Ancient Scandinavia: Known as the "Thor's Hammer," it was associated with the god Thor and represented strength and protection.
• Native American: Some tribes used the swastika to symbolize the four seasons or the four directions.

Modern Use and Controversy

In the 20th century, the swastika was adopted by the Nazi Party in Germany. It became a symbol of hatred, anti-Semitism, and white supremacy. After World War II, the swastika's association with Nazism led to its widespread condemnation and prohibition in many countries.

Today, the swastika remains a controversial symbol. While it is still used in some religious and cultural contexts, it is generally associated with hateful ideology and intolerance.

swastika relate terms

• fylfot

  Etymology The term fylfot is derived from the Old English words fylfot or feower fo

• gammadion

  Etymology From Ancient Greek γαμμαδίον gammadíon diminutive of γάμμα

• gamma

  Etymology Gamma is derived from the third letter Γ γ of the Greek alphabet which

• emblem

  Etymology The word emblem is derived from the Greek word emblema meaning something

• allegory

  Etymology The word allegory comes from the Greek word allegoria which means speakin

• cross

  Etymology The word cross comes from the Old English word cros which itself is deriv

• hammer

  Etymology The word hammer comes from the Old English word hamer which is derived fr

• engage

  Etymology From Middle English enwagen from Old English onweagian On on upon

• press

  Etymology The word press originates from the Old French word presse which in turn c

• cologne

  Etymology The word cologne comes from the Latin word aqua colonia which means water

• source

  Etymology The word source derives from the Old French word source which in turn come

• college

  Etymology The word college originates from the Latin word collegium meaning a group

• humble

  Etymology The word humble comes from the Latin word humilis which means low or on