The seed represents potentiality, latent power, and the male principal. As a feminine symbol, the seed is fertility, life to be, and growth. Symbol of the Center, from which the Cosmic Tree of Life grows.
In Hinduism, the seed is the Divine Spirit, Atman (the Sanskrit spirit of the highest principle of the universe), the center of being, the heart. The seed in the center of the Hindu temple represents Life and consciousness itself. In Buddhism, the seed is called bija and as a Sanskrit letter is often inscribed on a box or plaque, for ritual invocation.
Along with gold, silver, pearls, precious stones, and human blood, seeds were offered to Mexican gods for bountiful harvests and victories. Seeds are closely associated with fruit and share symbolism. Because fruit contains the seeds of growth, fruit represents cosmic origins and immortality.