In Buddhism , the bud of the lotus symbolizes potential . The lotus flower represents an awakening, spiritual growth, and enlightenment . Just as the lotus flower emerges from the water clean , the lotus also represents purity of body , speech , and mind . The lotus could be thought of as an awakened mind , which grows naturally toward the warmth and light of truth , love and compassion . The lotus may appear fragile on the surface , but it is flexible and strong , securely anchored under the surface of the water . Despite being born into dark , murky conditions , where hope for such beautiful life seems dubious , the lotus grows, rises above adversity . Ironically , this same dirty water washes it clean as it surfaces . As the lotus opens each petal to the air , not a stain or spot of mud remains externally . The inner lotus too , has never seen a drop of mud or dirty water . It is pure , and bright , and beautiful . Dimensions : 3000 × 4000 #Swamp #Lotus #Thegoddessoftheswamp