Sacral Chakra Symbol Meaning

Lotus Petals in the Sacral Chakra Symbol

The traditional symbol for the sacral chakra provides a visual diagram of the spiritual meaning and role of this chakra. Moving from the outer aspects of the sacral chakra symbol towards the center, the outer ring of the sacral chakra symbol consists of six lotus petals.

Modes of Consciousness
These petals represent six modes of consciousness that must be mastered for the full flow of energy through this chakra. The negative aspects of the six petals can be mastered by utilizing the associated seed syllables: wrath (BAM), hatred or anger (BHAM), jealousy or selfishness (MAM), cruelty or lack of love (YAM), lust (RAM), and pride (LAM).

Seed Syllables: BAM and BHAM
The syllable BAM is the first mystical bija or beej syllable of the sacral chakra symbol. This sound is associated with Shiva due to his wrathful nature. BHAM meaning “hatred” or “anger” is actually derived from the root “BHA” which means “devoted to light.” This shows the dual nature of life and the positive outcome of overcoming anger.

Seed Syllable: MAM
The syllable MAM is connected to the second lotus petal in the sacral chakra symbol. This syllable is a possessive meaning “my” or “mine.” Although it is related to the negative characteristics of jealousy and selfishness, this seed syllable can also be used in a positive sense as in a supplication to a deity. In this context, “mam dehi” means “bestow upon me.”

Seed Syllable: YAM
The syllable YAM is associated with the third lotus petal in the sacral chakra symbol. This syllable literally means to “restrain” or “control.” In the negative sense, this could be the withholding of love. On the other hand, YAM can mean to sustain or “hold up” in a positive ssense. For example, the five yamas of yoga are the ethical restraints that form the foundation of the spiritual path.

Seed Syllable: RAM
The seed syllable RAM is the fourth lotus petal in the sacral chakra symbols and overcomes lust and related missuses of the sacral chakra. The syllable RAM derives from a root meaning of “to delight” and “to enjoy.” This syllable is also the seed sound for the solar plexus and is most clearly connected to the Hindu god Ram or Rama. Rama embodies a deep connection to the Divine.

Seed Syllable: LAM
The negative aspect of the sixth lotus petal of the sacral chakra symbol (pride) can be overcome by the sound LAM. This sound means to “delight in” or “enjoy.” LAM is also related to the root chakra, adding stability and security to the sacral chakra. LAM promotes grounding and connects to the earth.

Circles in the Sacral Chakra Symbol

Continuing towards the center of the sacral chakra symbol, there are two circles offset to form a moon shape. These circles symbolize the cycles of life and death, the seasons and the realm of physical matter. The circle is the most fundamental of all forms, symbolizing infinite space and expansiveness. The circle is present in all physical matter from the atom to planetary bodies.

The Circle and Spirituality
The circle symbolizes the central quest of spirituality: to realize oneness with all of creation. In terms of the sacral chakra symbol, the circle holds the six lotus petals together and encompasses the other inner symbols.

Moon in the Sacral Chakra Symbol

Ocean Symbolism in the Sacral Chakra Symbol
In addition, oceans are constantly changing. This symbolizes limitless opportunities and possibilities. The ocean also represents our emotional world. Evolutionists believe that all of life originated in the sea. The water element is a powerful force that can create a deluge if untamed.

The Moon and Human Emotions
The moon is closely associated with human emotions and the water element. For example, dreams of the moon are typically related to intuition or that which is hidden. This can be a positive association such as hidden talents.

Role of the Moon in Hinduism
In Hinduism, the moon is seen as a source of light protecting individuals in the darkness of the night. All forms of light are welcomed, including the secondary light of the moon. The moon is associated with the god known as Chandra. The name Chandra means “bright and shining” in Sanskrit. The moon in Vedic astrology represents the mind, including thoughts, feelings, and psychology.

Light of the Moon as Wealth
The light of the moon is also associated with abundance. Moonlight is softer than the light of the sun, more like splendor than brilliance. When the moon shines brightly, all is peaceful. The light of the moon can be a guide in the darkest of nights.

Sanskrit Character in the Sacral Chakra Symbol

The Sanskrit character in the center stands for VAM, the seed syllable for the sacral chakra. Seed syllables are single syllables that activate the energy of the respective chakras. Each of the seed syllables for the chakras can be used independently or combined in mantras.

Meaning of Sanskrit Letters
Each of the letters in the Sanskrit alphabet have their own meaning and action. The “V” is a semi-vowel, meaning that it can be held longer than a consonant but for a shorter period of time than a true vowel. The longer the sound can be held, the more physical the effect. The absence of sound (silence) remains in the spiritual realm.

Letter “A” and the Sound of Exhalation
The short “A” in the center (pronounced UH) in the middle of the seed syllable VAM is the most primal of all sounds. This is the fundamental or root vibration of the vocal chords, the most basic opening necessary to produce sound. Thus, this sound is an affirmation of life and the exhalation of breath.

Letter “M” and the Divine Mother
The final “M” represents dissolution and transformation. The sound “M” is generally associated with the Divine Mother in Her many forms. The letter “M” also has a nourishing quality. “M” initiates the word for Mother in many languages: Mother, Mama, Mom, Mor, Ma, Madre, Mater, Mata, etc.