The lotus represents the path of life as it emerges from the mud, grows clean and pure through the water, and produces a beautiful lotus flower.
It signifies that even the dirtiest water will not cling to the Lotus.
That the lotus flower can stand tall in the water can be attributed to the strength of the lotus stem—a powerful analogy to the strength of one’s beliefs.
The leaves of the lotus flower are resistant to water. Like water droplets that fall off the lotus leaf, the soul can be touched by material temptations but must remain untainted. And it is important, that existence be rooted in the world, in order to experience the reality of suffering. And thereby, do something about it.
The blooming of the lotus flower is also symbolic. The flower, as a closed bloom, is like the human heart. When enlightened, it blossoms.
The lotus flower grows in muddy water and rises above the surface to bloom with remarkable beauty. At night the flower closes and sinks underwater, at dawn it rises and opens again. Untouched by the impurity, lotus symbolizes the purity of heart and mind.
"No matter where it takes root, it shall rise above all… that’s the will of the Lotus."
