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Swastika: meaning, definitions and examples

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swastika

 

[ˈswɒstɪkə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

symbol, culture

The swastika is an ancient symbol that has been used for over 12,000 years in various cultures around the world, including Hinduism, Buddhism, and Native American traditions. Traditionally, it represents good fortune, well-being, and prosperity. However, its meaning drastically changed in the 20th century when it was adopted by the Nazi Party in Germany, becoming a symbol of hate, anti-Semitism, and the atrocities of the Holocaust. In modern contexts, the swastika continues to provoke strong emotions and is often associated with the far-right movements.

Synonyms

gammadion, good luck symbol, lucky sign.

Examples of usage

  • The swastika is considered a sacred symbol in Hinduism.
  • In Nazi Germany, the swastika was used as a party emblem.
  • Some Native American tribes used the swastika in their art.
  • After World War II, the swastika became synonymous with hate.
  • The swastika has complex meanings across different cultures.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'swastika' comes from the Sanskrit word 'svastika', meaning 'well-being' or 'good luck'.
  • In different languages, the word has variations, like 'gammadion' in ancient Greek, relating to its geometric features.

Historical Significance

  • Many ancient cultures, including those in India, Greece, and Native American tribes, used this symbol for thousands of years, often linked to prosperity and spirituality.
  • During the 19th century, it began to be co-opted and misused by various groups, changing its perception significantly.

Cultural Uses

  • In Hinduism and Buddhism, the symbol represents auspiciousness and is often seen in religious rituals and architecture.
  • Indigenous cultures in North America have also used similar designs in art and decoration, emphasizing connection and unity.

Controversy

  • In the 20th century, the symbol was harshly stigmatized due to its adoption by Nazi Germany as a symbol of hatred and anti-Semitism.
  • Today, the swastika remains a highly controversial symbol, often provoking strong reactions depending on the context it is found in.

Modern Interpretations

  • Some groups attempt to reclaim the swastika for its original meanings, while others reject this due to its association with hate.
  • Educational efforts are ongoing to differentiate the symbol's ancient meanings from its modern misuse.

Translations

Translations of the word "swastika" in other languages:

🇵🇹 suástica

🇮🇳 स्वास्तिका

🇩🇪 Swastika

🇮🇩 swastika

🇺🇦 свастика

🇵🇱 swastyka

🇯🇵 スワスティカ

🇫🇷 swastika

🇪🇸 svástica

🇹🇷 svastika

🇰🇷 스와스티카

🇸🇦 سواستيكه

🇨🇿 svastika

🇸🇰 svastika

🇨🇳 卍

🇸🇮 svastika

🇮🇸 svastika

🇰🇿 суастика

🇬🇪 სვასტიკა

🇦🇿 svastika

🇲🇽 svástica

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,234, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.