Monochrome Monday: Balinese Swastika
I took this swastika picture from the wall of Balinese Hindu Temple, Goa Lawah Temple. The Temple is famous for its Bat Cave. I was told by a Balinese guard of the Temple that it was built in 1007.
Swastika is a familiar symbol in Europe that represents the dark side of the genocide in the World War Two. Many perhaps do not realize that this symbol has been existed hundreds years before the World War Two as belief symbol to some ethnic groups in Asia. In Bali (Indonesia), the swastika believed was introduced by their Hindus Kings to represent the peace and prosperity that linked to the sun, the moon, the earth and the sea. It is also common to see the swastika symbol in front of houses, such as on the doors, gates or walls. The Balinese placed the drawing of swastika with beliefs of its protection and for bringing good luck. The symbol has endured for centuries and influenced the way of life in Bali, a peaceful life.
indahs: dive, travel & photography 
An important post –thanks! A pity so many don’t know its original meaning.
It is quite surprising indeed for such powerful symbol and importance symbol to many around the globe. Thank you for your comment Miia 🙂
Yes, the original meaning of the symbol is unknown to many.
Indeed! Welcome back Draco! Good to hear from you again.
The original meaning is so perfect and beautiful…I remember seeing these on my first travels in SE Asia, and being so intrigued by the story and beauty of its history. So great for you to write up this post…
Thank you so much Randall. This symbol amazed me so much, it is old and yet manages to survive through many generations. It appears it was used by Native Americans too!
It is such a powerful symbol, and I really hope it returns soon to take on the old meaning because it is actually quite beautiful (very Buddhist and the meaning and symbol together). I didn’t know it was used by Native Americans, but since they did come from Asia it does not surprise me 🙂
Very interesting!
Thank you Graham!
I never knew that about the Swastika until I read another post a while back similar to this. I am glad to know. It has been given such a negative connotation because of the Nazis. I would much rather it be attributed to peace and prosperity than death and evil. Thanks for posting.
Thank you! Yes, the meaning has twisted after the World War Two. I am glad that you find this post informative 🙂 Have a great week ahead Linda!
Interesting. And may the good people take back signs that are misused.
it’s very common in Taiwan, too…
Wow! This symbol is truly global 🙂 Thank you Mélanie! Have a wonderful weekend 🙂
Wah.. nemu monochrome yang di Bali 🙂 saya senang sekali liat2 foto monokromnya.. meskipun monokrom, tetapi seperti ada kesan banyak warna yang tersembunyi, seperti foto yang menyimpan seribu cerita 😀
🙂 Terimakasih banyak Eka..selamat berakhir pekan yaa..xoxoxo