Buddhism Symbols Practices What is a symbol A

Buddhism Symbols & Practices

What is a symbol? • A symbol is something that “represents” or “stands for” something else (an idea, virtue, concept, etc…) • It is important to remember that the symbol IS NOT THE THING • Humanity seems to need ‘things’ that will provide happiness, security, peace, love – and we believe these things can be found in the material realm (earth) • Too often we confuse the symbol with the thing it represents – in so doing, we turn it into an “idol”

Symbolism in Buddhism • Buddha rejected the idea that any material thing can provide the happiness we seek (including scriptures as they are also physical and incomplete) • The happiness we seek (liberation) can only be determined by ourselves – conquering desire • However, supports are often needed to remind ourselves about that which we seek – symbols • Buddhist symbols represent an aspect of Buddhist wisdom • They are not objects of worship, nor do they contain supernatural powers • Early Buddhist symbols forbid any physical representation of Buddha – later these were permitted

Early Symbols • Four devotees bow to various symbols representing the Buddha – Bodhi tree enlightenment – Empty throne – Footprints in foreground each with a dharma wheel

Buddha Images • The first representations of Buddha were not personal images → tree • First images of Buddha appeared 500 years after the parinirvana (enlightenment) • Poses reflect regional differences

Mudras • Mudra is Sanskrit for sign and each hand sign has a specific meaning. • This is the abhaya mudra made with the open right hand, palm out, fingers pointing up, raised to about the height of the shoulder. • This represents the accomplishment of enlightenment

Stupa • Domed shaped mounds that house the relics of the Buddha / other holy figures • Some temples contain smaller stupas → memorial crypts of prominent Buddhists

The Lotus Flower • Very common symbol of both Buddhism and Hinduism • Represents humanity – we emerge from the material world, bloom for a day and die • Life is transient & fleeting

Buddhapada • Buddha’s footprints • According to legend Buddha’s feet made imprints in stone when he achieved nirvana • Symbolize Buddha’s presence • Also, the absence of the Buddha represents nonattachment and the achievement of nirvana

The Wheel of life • Tibetan symbol • Reminder of the Buddhist perspective of life and the 12 link chain of the origination of samsara / life • The wheel is held by lord Yama – Lord of Death • No living figure is outside of the wheel, except for Buddha, who is pointing at the moon – symbol of nirvana

Mandala • Mandala means circle • Representations of the heavenly mansions • Sand mandalas are temporary • Making the mandala is an act of meditation, involving chanting mantras and reciting prayers • After it is complete the mandala is swept away, representing how we must let go our attachments to the material world • construction and destruction of a mandala - You. Tube

Bodhisattva • • Bodhi – Wisdom Sattva – being “Wise being” One who is sure to become a Buddha

The Sky Burial • Tibetan Sky Burial - You. Tube