SRIVATSA

SRIVATSA

Srivatsa in Sanskrit, The endless knot is a closed, graphic ornament composed of right-angled, intertwined lines. This image signifies the dramatic interplay and interaction of the opposing forces in the dualistic world of manifestation, leading to their union and ultimately to harmony in the universe. This fact is amply reflected in the symmetrical and regular form of the endless knot. It represents the inter rlatedness and interconnection of: Wisdom and compassion, The mutual dependence of religious doctrine and secular affairs, The union of wisdom and method, The inseparability of emptiness and Dependent Co-arising, The union of wisdom and great compassion and The linking of ancestors and omnipresence and the magical ritual and meta-process of binding. The intertwining of lines reminds us how all phenomena are conjoined and yoked together as a closed cycle of cause and effect. Thus the whole composition is a pattern that is closed on in itself with no gaps, leading to a representational form of great simplicity and fully balanced harmony. Since all phenomena are interrelated, the placing of the endless knot on a gift or greeting card is understood to establish an auspicious connection between the giver and the recipient. Since the knot has no beginning or end it also symbolizes the infinite wisdom of the Buddha.