Knots

Knots as ancient symbol of eternity and love span both the East and West. There are quite a few variations, one of the more popular is the Celtic knot, which is often referred to as the endless knot. This knot is created from one continuous line symbolizing our connection with nature and all things. The knot is divided into four parts which represent the intertwining of the four seasons and the four elements with our lives.

Shrivatsa or "Endless Knot" is a symbol for eternity, compassion, wisdom and harmony. It is one of the eight auspicious symbols in Tibetan Buddhism, representing the interconnection of all beings, without beginning or ending. The intertwining of the lines also represents how all events, all phenomena are conjoined together as a closed cycle of cause and effect.  It indicates continuity as the underlying reality of existence. It is conjectured that it may have evolved from an ancient Naga symbol with two snakes.

It signifies the dramatic interplay and interaction of the opposing forces in the dualistic world of manifestation, leading to their union. Despite the opposing representation, it also represents the ultimate union and harmony of the opposing forces in the universe.
The expression "tying the knot" is thought to be where the couple had their hands bound in an endless knot as part of the wedding ritual.  In India the marriage itself is a divine knot. Once the two individuals are into marital knot, their individual karmas are intertwined. Physically it is expressed in  gathabandhan ritual where the knot is tied between the scarves of the bride and groom.

During Hindu wedding the groom secures the mangalasutra (the symbol of marriage union) by tying three knots. Each knot symbolizes each aspect of the body: Sthula Sharira (gross or physical body), Sukshma Sharira (subtle or pranic body), Karana Sharira (causal body). It also stands for the three aspects of commitment: manasa, vachaa, karmana - believing it, saying it and executing it.

But other knots exist which it is necessary to dissolve.There is an interesting Christian icon.  It refer to Saint Irenaeus's words who made a comparison between Eve and Mary, saying:"Eve, by her disobedience, tied the knot of disgrace for the human race; whereas Mary, by her obedience, undid it".

 Johann  Schmittdner "Mary Undoer of Knots" 

What are these knots? It's not only karmic blocs from past life. After all, we cannot know it. But there are the problems and struggles we face today. The puzzle for which we do not see any solution, the knots of discord, disrespect, violence, the absence of peace and joy. There are also the knots of anguish and despair of sick or separated, the knots of alcoholism, depression, unemployment, fear, solitude…These knots do not connect but divide us each from other, from Love. How they suffocate the soul, beat us down and betray the heart’s joy and separate us from God. We should be stronger to overcome it. Then, free from our knots, we can be a testimony of the Divine Power in this world, and we can help those who cry without any consolation, those who are lonely or tied with knots.

Up from Earth's Center through the Seventh Gate
I rose, and on the Throne of Saturn sate,
And many Knots unraveled by the Road;
But not the Master-Knot of Human Fate.

---Omar Khayyam