The ancient Shri Yantra has become a trendy design, but most don’t realise the complexity, meaning, and symbolism of the nine interlocking triangles and double ring of lotus petals. In Sanskrit, the word “yantra” comes from the word “yam,” which means “instrument” or “support,” and “tra,” derived from “trana,” meaning “release from bondage”. Shri Yantra is one of the most auspicious, important and powerful Yantras.
Each design element of the Sri Yantra has special philosophical significance. The dot in the very centre is representative of the Source of the universe; this dot, or bindi, is the "singularity" from which all manifest reality emerges. From one point of view, the design is representative of the evolution of the universe itself from its mysterious beginnings, charting its many levels.
The Sri Yantra in its central portion contains nine triangles. Four of them point upward and represent the unmanifest power of the universe. They are thought of as being masculine and represent the masculine aspect of divinity. The five downward-pointing triangles represent the divine feminine and the manifest aspects of the world.
The Shri Yantra is the source of supreme energy, a divine power of magnetic powers, and energy. This Yantra is known to pick up particular waves of cosmic rays emitted by the planets and other cosmic entities. It transforms them into positive vibrations. Its destroys negative and unwanted energies present, removing obstacles, and clearing the energy fields. It has unknown powers which can be experienced in a short space of time, making situations more favourable. The positive vibrations help to reach a higher state of self both spiritually and materialistically.
