Bonji Seed Syllables: Unlocking the Spiritual Power of Sacred Sanskrit Symbols

 

Bonji Seed Syllables: Unlocking the Spiritual Power of Sacred Sanskrit Symbols

Sanskrit characters, known as Bonji in Japanese, are ancient written symbols used mainly in sacred texts from Buddhism and Hinduism. These characters are more than just written text—they carry a profound meaning. 

These symbols are not only aesthetically pleasing, but they also embody profound spiritual principles from Buddhist tradition. This makes them ideal for use in decoration and clothing, making them highly visible and allowing us to attract specific energy associated with them.

This article will delve into the meaning of each character and the benefits of surrounding oneself with them, whether it is apparel, home decor, posters, etc.

What are the Eight Sacred Sanskrit Syllables?

These Eight Sanskrit Syllables are associated with the eight bodhisattvas or deities, essential figures in Buddhism, who embody the eight great virtues of Buddha and the practices of the Eightfold path. They appear in many Sutras (Buddhist texts) and are known as the Eight Great Siblings. They are personifications of the qualities of Buddha, reminding us of the importance of developing these virtues in our spiritual path.

Each one of these deities has a specific syllable or character called Bija mantras, also known as seed syllables in Siddham script. Siddham is an ancient script that evolved from the Gupta Brahmi script in the late 6th century and was traditionally used in the context of spiritual and esoteric writings, such as Buddhist texts and mantras. It was later used in Japanese culture, where it is now called Bonji, within Japanese Shingon Buddhism,

These eight characters also have an interesting link to the Chinese zodiac. The 12 Chinese zodiac signs are grouped to result in eight combinations, each one associated with one of these sacred Siddham characters and Bodhisattvas. In this sense, they are also called “guardian Sanskrit characters or “zodiac Sanskrit characters,” frequently used for their spiritual protection properties. 

The Eight Zodiac Sanskrit Syllables

Let’s take a look at all of these characters to understand their meaning and benefits.

Kiriiku: The Symbol of Senju Kannon (Thousand-Armed Avalokiteshvara)
 

This seed syllable is called Kiriiku. It corresponds to Senju Kannon, also known as Thousand-Armed Avalokiteshvara, one of the eight Bodhisattvas who is depicted as a white figure who holds a lotus flower. He is a major figure in Buddhism, especially in Tibet, where he is considered the patron deity. Relating to the Eightfold Path, he exemplifies right speech, since he teaches compassion.

Senju Kannon is a personification of the virtue of compassion, and is also known as the great Lord of Compassion. In Buddhism, he is considered the essence of the speech of all the buddhas and the incarnation of their compassion. He understands all wishes, protects and grants assurance to all words, and his name is considered to carry inconceivable blessings. Therefore, he is seen as a figure of protection. Thinking of him or calling out to Him will save anyone from all kinds of danger.

In the Chinese Zodiac, this Bodhisattva resonates with the signs of the Rat, which are considered empathetic and compassionate. 

Using this symbol as an amulet in clothing or jewelry channels the vibrational energy of Senju Kannon, helping us to embody compassion and right speech, as well as providing protection (especially for those from the Rat signs).

 

Taraaku: The Symbol of Kokūzō Bosatsu (Akasagarbha)

 

This seed syllable is called Taraaku. It embodies the energy of Kokūzō Bosatsu, also known as Akasagarbha, whose name means “nucleus of space” or “womb of space” and is considered a personification of wisdom and knowledge and Buddha’s blessings, and wielder of the ability to purify transgressions. He is generally depicted in blue, holding a sword that represents his power to cut through the destructive emotions. Regarding the Eightfold Path, he personifies “right concentration”.

When it comes to the Chinese Zodiac, this deity protects the signs of the Ox/Cow and the Tiger, helping them to find clarity, learning, and endurance through life challenges. 

Using this symbol as a talisman in clothing, jewelry, or around the house channels the vibrational energy of Kokūzō Bosatsu, harmonizing us with the power of knowledge and divine wisdom, and harnessing emotional balance.

Man: The Symbol of Monju Bosatsu (Manjushri)

 

This seed syllable is called Man. It embodies the energy of Monju Bosatsu, also known as Manjushri. He is considered the oldest and most significant bodhisattva in the Mahayana tradition, and his name means "Beautiful One with Glory" or "Beautiful One with Auspiciousness". 

Monju Bosatsu is also considered to be the embodiment of Buddha’s prajñā, or transcendental wisdom. He is depicted holding a sword in his right hand and a text in his left hand. In the Eightfold Path, he represents Right Understanding.

He is associated with the Chinese Zodiac Sign of the Rabbit, which is known for their intelligence. Monju Bosatsu helps them to develop discernment.

The Man seed syllable is a symbol of protection. When using it as a talisman in clothing or decoration, it allows us to channel the divine energy of Monju Bosatsu, connecting us with Buddha’s divine wisdom and discernment.

 

An: The Symbol of Fugen Bosatsu (Samantabhadra)

 

The fourth seed syllable is called “An,” and represents the energy of  Fugen Bosatsu, also known as Samantabhadra, a great bodhisattva associated with meditation and practice. He is the embodiment of the aspirations of Buddha, and personifies the virtue of practicing prayer and offerings. 

His name means "Universal Worthy" or "All Good." Fugen Bosatsu is often depicted as a reddish-green figure holding a corn-ear of jewels, which symbolizes his ability to grant the wishes of all beings. He represents Right Thought in the Eightfold Path.

In the Chinese Zodiac, this deity is associated with the signs of the Dragon and the Snake. He aligns with their mysticism and intuition, helping them balance power and act with wisdom.

The An seed syllable is a powerful talisman. When worn in clothing or used as decoration in the house, it encourages good karma and rightful living, while shielding against negativity and channeling the energy of Fugen Bosatsu, especially for those from the Dragon and Snake Zodiac signs. 

Saku: The Symbol of Seishi Bosatsu (Mahasthamaprapta) 

 
Saku is the seed syllable associated with the Bodhisattva Seishi Bosatsu, also known as Mahasthamaprapta. He is equated to Vajrapani, considered one of his incarnations and the Protector of Gautama Buddha, and responsible for transmitting the tantras to the human realm.

Mahasthamaprapta’s name means "arrival of the great strength." He is often depicted as a woman, a figure known as Dashizhi. When he is depicted as Vajrapana, he appears as a blue figure holding a vajra, a ritual sceptre symbolizing compassion. 

Vajrapana is considered one of the oldest Bodhisattvas and represents Buddha’s power and exemplifies “Right Action” in the Eightfold Path. He represents Buddha’s fierce wrathful activity, an important part of is balanced energy, since He is equally compassionate. 

Seishi Bosatsu is associated with the Chinese zodiac sign of the Horse, empowering these individuals with courage and determination. The Saku is a powerful symbol that embodies Seishi Bosatsu’s energy, encouraging power and strength in our daily lives, when used as a talisman in apparel or decoration, especially for those from the Zodiac sign of the Horse.

 

Ban: The Symbol of Dainichi Nyorai (Vairocana)

 
The seed syllable Ban embodies the qualities of Dainichi Nyorai, the central figure of Esoteric Buddhism, also known as Vairocana. He is worshipped as the primordial Sun Buddha, and is considered the founder of the Shingon school of Esoteric Buddhism.

Dainichi’s name literally means “Great Sun,” and is considered the life force that illuminates the universe, being everywhere and present in everything. All of the creation in the Universe is a manifestation of him. He is the All-encompassing Buddha, with the rest of the buddhas being his emanations. He is seen as he embodiment of the Dharmakaya, the supreme Buddha-body, and the personification of the Buddhist concept of purity and wisdom. 

  
Dainichi is part of the Dhyani Buddhas, or the Five Wisdom Buddhas, believed to have always existed. He represents universal illumination and wisdom, and is often seen as the central figure of all five.

Dainichi embodies the energy of the Chinese Zodiac signs of the Sheep and the Monkey. Those who belong to the sign of the Sheep are creative and emotional, while the sign of the Monkey is usually clever but easily distracted. Dainichi helps them gain clarity and inner peace.

Use the seed syllable Ban to connect with the energy of Dainichi, to receive enlightenment, clarity, spiritual awakening, and inner peace. Wear this talisman as clothing or jewelry, or place it around the house.

Kaan: The Symbol of Fudō Myōō (Acala)

 
This seed syllable, called “Kaan,” is associated with Fudō Myōō, a central deity in Buddhism, also called Acala (which means "The Immovable"). He is considered a remover of obstacles and destroyer of evil, and one of the Five Wisdom Kings.

Fudō Myōō is seen as a protector of Buddhist law, and considered a direct emanation of Dainichi Nyora, the All-encompassing Buddha.

Fudō Myōō is often portrayed as a fierce figure with a wrathful face, holding a sword to cut through the bonds of ignorance and a noose to capture the demons that oppress humanity. His wrath is emphasized by his black skin, a common trait in Buddhas and Bodhisattvas who personify this quality. Additionally, he is portrayed surrounded by flames, as a representation of the fire that purifies the mind.

This Buddha is also associated with the Chinese zodiac sign of the Rooster. People who were born in this sign are considered hard-working but also stubborn. Acala gives them strength and helps them to remove obstacles.

The seed syllable kaan is a powerful talisman for protection. When used around the house, as jewelry or clothing, it shields against evil and provides strength, just like Fudō Myōō removes obstacles and captures demons. 

Kiriiku: The Symbol of Amida Nyorai (Amitābha Buddha)

 

Kiriiku is also the seed syllable associated with Amida Nyorai. Amida, also known as Amitābha, is the central figure in East Asian Buddhism. He is considered one of the Five Wisdom Tathāgatas, and part of the Lotus Buddha Family. He is often depicted forming a trinity with the bodhisattvas Vajrapani and Avalokiteśvara, known as the “Amitābha triad.”

Amida is represented sitting in a lotus flower in meditation, or standing, while descending from heaven. He symbolizes infinite light and rebirth, since he guides souls to salvation and eternal life.

His name means “Immeasurable Light” because of the belief that his body radiates infinite light in all directions, and his light shines unlimited throughout all Buddha realms.. Those who constantly remind Amitabha are said to be reborn again and quickly attain enlightenment. 

Amida is also associated with the Chinese Zodiac signs of the Dog and the Boar, guiding them and providing them with hope and spiritual transformation, to overcome anxiety, self-doubt, or lack of direction. 

Amidas’ seed syllable is a powerful talisman, and a reminder of his transcendental nature, divinity, and guidance. Use this symbol to channel the energy of Amida and reach spiritual transformation and enlightenment. 

Why You Should Use Bonji Symbols 

Spiritual symbols like the eight seed syllables associated with these deities carry an immense power. Here is why everyone should use them.

⦁    They are a reminder of the guidance of these deities
⦁    These symbols channel the energy of a specific Buddha or Bodhisattva
⦁    They are aesthetic and inspiring
⦁    They bring positive energy into your home
⦁    The seed syllables are powerful talismans for spiritual protection to be used anywhere.
⦁    Bonji symbols connect you to the ancient culture and teachings of Buddhism 
⦁    You can use the one associated with your Chinese zodiac sign to help you overcome the weaknesses and amplify the strengths of your sign
⦁    Their spiritual power allows you to find balance in every aspect of life
⦁    You can use these symbols in different ways: as portraits or decoration in your living space, as clothing, jewelry, or in your journal.
⦁    Connecting with the energy of these bodhisattvas or Buddhas helps to attain enlightenment and inner peace.

Final Thoughts
Bonji seed syllables are not only beautiful characters, but they also carry immense power and spiritual transformation. By channeling the energy latent in these symbols, you can connect with different Buddhas and Bodhisattvas and receive their guidance and blessings.

Here at 369 Life Music, you can find Sanskrit apparel to show your inner self in creative ways, connect with spirituality in your everyday life, and remain connected with these deities everywhere you go. Visit our store to find your ideal symbol!