The Sacred Lotus That Blooms Above the Mud
Nelumbo nucifera, commonly known as the sacred lotus. Revered in religions, art, and mythology across Asia, this remarkable aquatic plant is more than just a stunning bloom it is a symbol of purity, enlightenment, and rebirth.The sacred lotus has been honored for thousands of years in Hinduism, Buddhism, and ancient Egyptian culture. It’s often depicted as the throne of gods and goddesses, and in Buddhist teachings, it represents the journey of the soul rising from the murky waters of suffering into the light of enlightenment.This symbolism is deeply rooted in its biology. The lotus grows in muddy, stagnant water, yet it emerges clean and unblemished its leaves and flowers are coated with a waxy surface that repels dirt and water, an effect scientists now refer to as the "lotus effect."
Nelumbo nucifera is a perennial aquatic plant with large, round leaves that can float on the water’s surface or stand above it. The majestic flowers, typically soft pink to white, bloom high above the water, often reaching up to 30 cm (about 12 inches) in diameter. They open in the morning and close at night, following a rhythmic pattern of life and rest.One of the plant’s most striking features is its distinctive seed pod, which resembles a showerhead. These pods mature into hard, woody structures that contain edible seeds some of which have remained viable for over a thousand years!
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| Device | Redmi 14 Pro Plus |
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| Edit | Lightroom CC |
| Captured by | @pioneerjeff |
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