PARASOL

PARASOL

This Buddhist symbol ‘Parasol’ is depicted by the umbrella, whose important function is to cast a shadow, the shadow of protection. The parasol or umbrella is a symbol of both protection and royalty. The coolness of its shade symbolizes protection from the heat of suffering, desire and other spiritually harmful forces. The dome of the umbrella is held aloft by a vertical handle (just like the mountain upholds the sky), which is identified with the central axis upholding the world. The umbrella is carried above an important dignitary or the image of a deity, to indicate that the person or symbol below the umbrella is in fact the centre of the universe and also its spiritual support. In Tibet, depending on their status, various dignitaries were entitled to different parasols, with religious heads being entitled to a silk one and secular rulers to a parasol with embroidered peacock feathers. Exalted personalities such as the Dalai Lama are entitled to both and in processions, first a peacock parasol and then a silk one is carried after him. The dome symbolizes wisdom and the hanging skirt, compassion. Thus the composite form of the parasol signifies the union of these dual elements. Octagonal and square parasols are also common, representing the Noble Eightfold Path and the four directional quarters respectively.