The lotus flower begins its journey in deep mud, slowly growing through murky water before breaking through the surface of the pond. There, it finally blossoms — beautiful and whole — under the radiant sun. This unique transformation has made the lotus flower into a cherished symbol across many Eastern religions, by providing a metaphor for the human condition; as human beings, we often triumph over many obstacles before emerging as a resilient whole.

In Buddhism, the lotus flower represents purity, spiritual awakening, and faithfulness. The lotus flower traces a path through muddy waters, yet emerges with clean petals, unsullied by its surroundings. This makes the lotus flower a befitting symbol for both rebirth and purity. In all forms of Buddhism, the lotus is symbolic of the highest spiritual attainment — when Buddha is portrayed in his enlightenment state, he often sits upon an open lotus flower.

The lotus flower holds similar meaning in Hinduism. According to a Hindu creation legend, a golden lotus once arose from primal water, opening up to reveal the gods Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva at its centre. Hindu belief understands the core of the lotus as a centre of great vitality and power. Similar to Buddhism, Hinduism reveres the lotus’s ability to remain unspoiled by the muddy water surrounding it. By rising above the water, the lotus flower enlightens followers to search for enlightenment without being enticed by material temptations (symbolized by the mud).

In all traditions, the lotus flower offers a powerful image. It asks us to remain hopeful that beauty can grow from suffering — that though we might be in the dark about our path as we go through our personal journeys, we will one day blossom under the sun.