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Canopy and Parasol
< Ushnisha-sitapatra
In the tropics the parasol or umbrella is a symbol associated with royalty. Its purpose is not only to protect by creating shade; it designates the dignitary proceeding through a throng of people.
In Holy Teachings of Vimalakirti (trans. R. Thurman) a wondrous canopy is created which does not create shade. It does the opposite; it sheds light.
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One of the eight auspicious symbols is a
parasol, depicted as held by the deity at left. Here, it symbolizes Refuge
-- supreme protection.