The conch shell is considered sacred in both (Tibetan) Buddhism and Hinduism.
In Tibetan Buddhism, the conch shell is considered one of the Eight Auspicious Symbols. It symbolizes how the fame of the Dharma spreads in all directions, awakening all beings from ignorance. It represents the power of right and truthful speech, spoken with a fearless and far-reaching voice.
Also the shape of the white conch, with its right turning spiral, symbolizes the harmony of natural law and cosmic rhythm. It reminds practitioners to be alert, mindful, and dedicated to the path of enlightenment — echoing the deep call of compassion and inner awakening.
In Hinduism, the conch shell is actively used as a ritual attribute and has been so since ages, with origin stories and instructions about its usage written in many Hindu religious scriptures.
The conch shell is blown like a trumpet at the beginning of many different Hindu rituals and ceremonies. One of the most significant reasons for doing so, is the conch's association with purity and positivity. The sound produced by the conch is believed to purify the environment, dispelling negative energies and bringing in positivity. When it is blown before or during a religious ritual, it is seen as a means to cleanse the surroundings, making it conducive to divine activities. Also the sound actively calls upon the divine, it serves as an invitation to the gods and goddesses, awakens their presence and establishes the connection between worshipper and divine at the start of the ritual.
These shankha here in our shop come from Nepal. They are made with real conch shells in very nicely detailed Tibetan silver settings, decorated with coral and turquoise cabochons. There are two available, with a slightly different decoration pattern. You can choose your favorite one via the selection-menu:
#1: approximately 14,5 centimeters long and 187 grams
#2: approximately 15 centimeters long and 207 grams
These shankha are from vintage origin and show some small signs of their age and previous usage, but overall they are in good condition and (maybe after some careful cleaning) ready to be used again in your personal practice.
