Swastika: Tracing the Global Religio-Cultural Significance Across Millennia
Keywords:
Swastika symbol, Harappan culture, Celtic culture, Baltic culture, Norse culture, Native American culture, Greek culture, African culture, Japanese culture, Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, Bon religionAbstract
This article explores the historical and cultural significance of the Swastika symbol across
civilizations, emphasizing its positive connotations, such as well-being and protection. It traces
the symbol's roots to the Harappan culture, highlighting its presence in diverse cultures
worldwide, including Celtic, Greek, Baltic, Slavic, Norse, East Asian, African, Central Asian,
Mesoamerican, and Native American. The Swastika's significance in the Indian subcontinent is
detailed, spanning Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, and the Bon religion. The article calls
for a nuanced understanding of the Swastika, recognizing its enduring significance beyond its
20th-century misuse. It emphasizes the need to understand and reclaim the symbol's positive
identity and encourages a balanced perspective that appreciates its multifaceted history.
