sspostlinearity

In eastern cultures the lotus symbolizes awareness, or consciousness.  In the dark of night, the flower is closed.  In the light of day, it opens.

It’s roots are in the mud.  The leaves are on the surface of the pond.  The flower reaches into the air towards the light.

It is also the symbol in the chakra system for the energy centers in the subtle body.  At the top of the head, the chakra is referred to as the thousand-petaled lotus.  Like the awakened mind, the thousand petals symbolize awareness in every direction.

Next, the symbol of the self called the Buddha, which is often shown sitting on a lotus.  What might that mean? And if it is a symbol of the self, what might that imply?