The positive symbolism of The Endless Knot

The symbolism of the Endless knot is made up of symmetrical knots without beginning or and end. It is a universal symbol of the eternity of life, the eternity of nature and the eternity of love.

We all know the expression ‘to tie the knot’, which means to get married and this originates from the ancient Celtic custom of hand-fasting. This is where the wedded couple had their hands tied together in a symbolic ritual with an endless or eternity knot.

I read that the Endless knot is one of the eight Buddhist symbols my favourite being Lotus – as the Lotus flower represents the purification of our body and mind by the deeds we perform.

While the knot actually originated from Tibet, variations of the interlocking knots are strikingly similar. It appears the Endless knot has been shared by many different cultures down through the years. It is now a well known universal icon.

Finally, it is said that the Endless knot may have evolved from the Naga, which is an ancient symbol of two intertwined snakes. The intertwined snakes signify interplay and interaction of opposing forces of good and evil in the world. Eventually the two become one and create harmony in the Universe. The intertwining of these lines also represents how all events past present and future are bound by a never ending cycle of cause and effect, a closed pattern with no gaps leading to a design of simplicity and balanced harmony.

Since everything in the Universe is interrelated the placing of the Endless Knot on a gift or greeting card is understood to establish a connection between the giver and the receiver.

The receiver is led to righteous Karma, by being reminded that future positive effects have their roots in the actions of the present. The knot represents a connection and a link to our fates binding us to our Karmic destiny.

Adapted from an article at www.squidoo.com