What is ushnisa?

Ushnisa is a term in Buddhism that refers to a protuberance or crown-like structure on top of the Buddha's head. It is often depicted as a small bump or an ornate tiered structure with finials or flame-like extensions. The ushnisa is considered a symbol of the Buddha's spiritual attainment, representing his wisdom and enlightenment. It is often used as a focus of meditation, with practitioners visualizing its radiant light or imagining themselves seated within it to connect with the Buddha's teachings and energy. The term ushnisa is derived from the Sanskrit word for heat or blaze and is also related to the Sanskrit word for the crown chakra, which is associated with spiritual awakening and insights.