Difference between revisions of "Buddhist Shrines and Images"
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<poem> | <poem> | ||
− | Man has always felt the need to remember the things he loves and reveres in a [[Form]] that he can [[feel]] and see before him. A [[person]] may keep a photograph in [[Order]] to recall a loved one who has gone | + | Man has always felt the need to remember the things he loves and reveres in a [[Form]] that he can [[feel]] and see before him. A [[person]] may keep a photograph in [[Order]] to recall a loved one who has gone abroad or has passed away. One may also [[feel]] a great [[sense]] of {{Wiki|pride}} and [[Love]] for a country when [[standing]] at [[attention]] before the national [[flag]]. The photograph and national [[flag]] are examples of [[Symbols]] that enable one to remember the qualities of the [[people]] or things that are {{Wiki|being}} represented. They [[Form]] the focal point of one’s [[Feeling]] of [[Love]], [[Respect]] or patriotism. |
[[File:1162C369.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | [[File:1162C369.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | ||
− | Similarly, the [[shrine]] found in [[Buddhist]] homes or [[temples]] is a focal point of [[Buddhist]] [[observance]]. At the centre of the [[shrine]], there is usually an {{Wiki|image}} of The [[Buddha]]. The {{Wiki|image}} may be made of variety of materials such as marble, {{Wiki|gold}}, wood or even clay. The {{Wiki|image}} is a [[Symbol]] that helps [[people]] to recall the qualities of The [[Buddha]]. | + | |
+ | Similarly, the [[shrine]] found in [[Buddhist]] homes or [[temples]] is a focal point of [[Buddhist]] [[observance]]. At the centre of the [[shrine]], there is usually an {{Wiki|image}} of The [[Buddha]]. The {{Wiki|image}} may be made of variety of materials such as marble, {{Wiki|gold}}, [[wood]] or even clay. The {{Wiki|image}} is a [[Symbol]] that helps [[people]] to recall the qualities of The [[Buddha]]. | ||
[[File:-007.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | [[File:-007.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | ||
− | The [[Shrine]] may also have such [[objects]] as a volume of [[Buddhist]] [[scriptures]] to represent The [[Dharma]]. Some [[shrines]] may include other items such as images, pictures or photograph of [[Buddhist]] [[Monks]] and [[master]] to represent [[The Sangha]]. When a [[Buddhist]] stands before a [[shrine]] , the [[objects]] he sees on it help him to recall the qualities that are found in The [[Buddha]], [[Dharma]] and [[Sangha]]. This inspires him to work towards cultivating these qualities in himself. | + | |
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+ | The [[Shrine]] may also have such [[objects]] as a volume of [[Buddhist]] [[scriptures]] to represent The [[Dharma]]. Some [[shrines]] may include other items such as images, pictures or photograph of [[Buddhist]] [[Monks]] and [[master]] to represent [[The Sangha]]. When a [[Buddhist]] stands before a [[shrine]] , the [[objects]] he sees on it help him to recall the qualities that are found in The [[Buddha]], [[Dharma]] and [[Sangha]]. This inspires him to work towards [[cultivating]] these qualities in himself. | ||
[[File:Anlac r.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | [[File:Anlac r.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | ||
− | This is a simple explanation of the meaning behind [[Buddhist]] devotional practices one see in [[shrines]] and [[temples]], such as bowing, prostrating, lighting [[incense]] and {{Wiki|candles}}, [[offering]] of [[flowers]] and fruit, which is common in all [[traditions]]. | + | |
+ | This is a simple explanation of the meaning behind [[Buddhist]] devotional practices one see in [[shrines]] and [[temples]], such as [[bowing]], [[prostrating]], lighting [[incense]] and {{Wiki|candles}}, [[offering]] of [[flowers]] and fruit, which is common in all [[traditions]]. | ||
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[[File:20do1 1280.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | [[File:20do1 1280.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | ||
[[Buddhist Shrines and Images]] | [[Buddhist Shrines and Images]] | ||
[[File:Bu DN.JPG|thumb|250px|]] | [[File:Bu DN.JPG|thumb|250px|]] | ||
− | While it is difficult to [[imagine]] [[Buddhism]] without the [[Buddha]] {{Wiki|image}} or [[Rupa]], it was not until about 500 years after the passing away ([[Parinirvana]]) that the practice of making images of the [[Buddha]] started. Since that [[time]], [[Buddha]] images have been the [[object]] of [[Buddhist]] devotion and identify for over 2000 years, acting as the inspirational focus and the means for {{Wiki|devotees}} to express their reverence and [[gratitude]] for the [[Buddha's]] [[Dharma]] or Teachings. | + | |
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+ | While it is difficult to [[imagine]] [[Buddhism]] without the [[Buddha]] {{Wiki|image}} or [[Rupa]], it was not until about 500 years after the passing away ([[Parinirvana]]) that the [[practice]] of making images of the [[Buddha]] started. Since that [[time]], [[Buddha]] images have been the [[object]] of [[Buddhist]] [[devotion]] and identify for over 2000 years, acting as the inspirational focus and the means for {{Wiki|devotees}} to express their reverence and [[gratitude]] for the [[Buddha's]] [[Dharma]] or Teachings. | ||
[[File:23.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | [[File:23.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | ||
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The [[reasons]] for the [[Buddha]] {{Wiki|image}} on the [[shrine]] are: | The [[reasons]] for the [[Buddha]] {{Wiki|image}} on the [[shrine]] are: | ||
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• to remind one of the qualities of Perfect [[Wisdom]] and Perfect [[Compassion]] of the [[Buddha]], | • to remind one of the qualities of Perfect [[Wisdom]] and Perfect [[Compassion]] of the [[Buddha]], | ||
• it serves to inspire us to develop these qualities as we recall the greatness of the [[Buddha]] and His Teachings. | • it serves to inspire us to develop these qualities as we recall the greatness of the [[Buddha]] and His Teachings. | ||
− | Some days, we may [[feel]] agitated, [[angry]] or depressed. When we pass by a [[shrine]] in our homes or visit a [[temple]], and see the [[peaceful]] {{Wiki|image}} of the [[Buddha]], it helps us to remember that there are [[beings]] that are [[peaceful]] and we can become like them too. Automatically, our [[minds]] settle down. | + | Some days, we may [[feel]] agitated, [[angry]] or {{Wiki|depressed}}. When we pass by a [[shrine]] in our homes or visit a [[temple]], and see the [[peaceful]] {{Wiki|image}} of the [[Buddha]], it helps us to remember that there are [[beings]] that are [[peaceful]] and we can become like them too. Automatically, our [[minds]] settle down. |
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[[Buddhists]] pay [[respect]] to the [[Buddha]] to show their [[gratitude]] to Him for showing the way to [[Enlightenment]] and [[liberation]] by: | [[Buddhists]] pay [[respect]] to the [[Buddha]] to show their [[gratitude]] to Him for showing the way to [[Enlightenment]] and [[liberation]] by: | ||
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[[Prostration]] | [[Prostration]] | ||
− | • Prostrating before an {{Wiki|image}} of the [[Buddha]] or members of the [[Sangha]] expresses our deep [[veneration]]. | + | • [[Prostrating]] before an {{Wiki|image}} of the [[Buddha]] or members of the [[Sangha]] expresses our deep [[veneration]]. |
• This also helps us to overcome [[egoistic]] [[feelings]] ({{Wiki|pride}}) to become more ready to listen to the [[Teaching]] of the [[Buddha]]. | • This also helps us to overcome [[egoistic]] [[feelings]] ({{Wiki|pride}}) to become more ready to listen to the [[Teaching]] of the [[Buddha]]. | ||
− | • As we prostrate before the [[Buddha]] images, we recall the qualities of the [[Buddha]] and develop [[respect]] for their qualities such as [[loving-kindness]], [[compassion]], [[virtue]], [[patience]], [[concentration]] and [[wisdom]]. Showing [[respect]] to the [[Buddha]] and his qualities inspires us to develop these [[extraordinary]] qualities ourselves. | + | • As we [[prostrate]] before the [[Buddha]] images, we recall the qualities of the [[Buddha]] and develop [[respect]] for their qualities such as [[loving-kindness]], [[compassion]], [[virtue]], [[patience]], [[concentration]] and [[wisdom]]. Showing [[respect]] to the [[Buddha]] and his qualities inspires us to develop these [[extraordinary]] qualities ourselves. |
− | What is the purpose of making [[offerings]] to the [[Buddha]]? | + | What is the {{Wiki|purpose}} of making [[offerings]] to the [[Buddha]]? |
• We make [[offerings]] not because the [[Buddha]] needs them - the [[Buddha]] is an [[enlightened being]], He certainly does not need an [[incense]] stick to be [[happy]]! | • We make [[offerings]] not because the [[Buddha]] needs them - the [[Buddha]] is an [[enlightened being]], He certainly does not need an [[incense]] stick to be [[happy]]! | ||
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• [[Light]] [[symbolizes]] [[wisdom]]. | • [[Light]] [[symbolizes]] [[wisdom]]. | ||
− | • [[Light]] drives away darkness. | + | • [[Light]] drives away {{Wiki|darkness}}. |
− | • Similarly, the [[light]] of [[wisdom]] dispels the darkness of [[ignorance]]. | + | • Similarly, the [[light]] of [[wisdom]] dispels the {{Wiki|darkness}} of [[ignorance]]. |
[[Offering]] of [[Incense]] | [[Offering]] of [[Incense]] | ||
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• When [[incense]] is lit, its {{Wiki|fragrance}} spreads. | • When [[incense]] is lit, its {{Wiki|fragrance}} spreads. | ||
• [[Incense]] [[symbolizes]] the {{Wiki|fragrance}} of [[pure]] [[moral conduct]]. | • [[Incense]] [[symbolizes]] the {{Wiki|fragrance}} of [[pure]] [[moral conduct]]. | ||
− | • This reminds us to cultivate good conduct. | + | • This reminds us to cultivate [[good conduct]]. |
[[Offering]] of [[Water]] | [[Offering]] of [[Water]] | ||
• [[Water]] [[symbolizes]] [[purity]], clarity and [[calmness]]. | • [[Water]] [[symbolizes]] [[purity]], clarity and [[calmness]]. | ||
− | • This reminds us to practise the [[Buddha's teachings]], so as to cleanse our [[minds]]h are full of [[desire]], [[ill-will]] and [[ignorance]], and to attain the state of [[purity]]. | + | • This reminds us to practise the [[Buddha's teachings]], so as to cleanse our [[minds]]h are full of [[desire]], [[ill-will]] and [[ignorance]], and to attain the [[state]] of [[purity]]. |
[[Offering]] of Fruit | [[Offering]] of Fruit | ||
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• Fresh and [[beautiful]] [[flowers]] will soon become withered, scentless and discoloured. | • Fresh and [[beautiful]] [[flowers]] will soon become withered, scentless and discoloured. | ||
• This reminds us of the [[Buddha's teaching]] that all things are [[impermanent]]. | • This reminds us of the [[Buddha's teaching]] that all things are [[impermanent]]. | ||
− | • We should value what we have now and [[live]] in the present. | + | • We should value what we have now and [[live]] in the {{Wiki|present}}. |
The [[Lotus]] | The [[Lotus]] | ||
− | The most common [[flower]] seen in [[Buddhist]] [[shrines]], or on the base of [[statues]], are [[lotuses]], as they represent the potential or actuality of [[Enlightenment]]. | + | The most common [[flower]] seen in [[Buddhist]] [[shrines]], or on the base of [[statues]], are [[lotuses]], as they represent the potential or [[actuality]] of [[Enlightenment]]. |
• The [[lotus]] grows out of the mud and blossoms above the [[water]] surface, yet it is not dirtied by the mud from which it grows. | • The [[lotus]] grows out of the mud and blossoms above the [[water]] surface, yet it is not dirtied by the mud from which it grows. | ||
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• We are right now surrounded by [[defilements]] and [[sufferings]], just as the [[lotus]] seed is surrounded by dirt, mud and filth. We should rise above our [[defilements]] and [[sufferings]], just like the [[lotus flower]] [[arising]] above the muddy [[water]]. | • We are right now surrounded by [[defilements]] and [[sufferings]], just as the [[lotus]] seed is surrounded by dirt, mud and filth. We should rise above our [[defilements]] and [[sufferings]], just like the [[lotus flower]] [[arising]] above the muddy [[water]]. | ||
− | • This serves to remind us of our own potential [[Buddhahood]]. We may have [[defilements]] today, but we all have the potential of growing out of [[defilements]] and achieving [[wisdom]] like the [[Buddha]]. | + | • This serves to remind us of our [[own]] potential [[Buddhahood]]. We may have [[defilements]] today, but we all have the potential of growing out of [[defilements]] and achieving [[wisdom]] like the [[Buddha]]. |
</poem> | </poem> | ||
{{R}} | {{R}} | ||
− | [http://web.singnet.com.sg/~alankhoo/Observances.htm web.singnet.com.sg] | + | [http://web.singnet.com.sg/~alankhoo/Observances.htm web.singnet.com.sg/~alankhoo] |
[[Category:Buddhist Terms]] | [[Category:Buddhist Terms]] | ||
[[Category:Architecture]] | [[Category:Architecture]] | ||
[[Category:Sangha]] | [[Category:Sangha]] |
Latest revision as of 18:38, 4 March 2024
Man has always felt the need to remember the things he loves and reveres in a Form that he can feel and see before him. A person may keep a photograph in Order to recall a loved one who has gone abroad or has passed away. One may also feel a great sense of pride and Love for a country when standing at attention before the national flag. The photograph and national flag are examples of Symbols that enable one to remember the qualities of the people or things that are being represented. They Form the focal point of one’s Feeling of Love, Respect or patriotism.
Similarly, the shrine found in Buddhist homes or temples is a focal point of Buddhist observance. At the centre of the shrine, there is usually an image of The Buddha. The image may be made of variety of materials such as marble, gold, wood or even clay. The image is a Symbol that helps people to recall the qualities of The Buddha.
The Shrine may also have such objects as a volume of Buddhist scriptures to represent The Dharma. Some shrines may include other items such as images, pictures or photograph of Buddhist Monks and master to represent The Sangha. When a Buddhist stands before a shrine , the objects he sees on it help him to recall the qualities that are found in The Buddha, Dharma and Sangha. This inspires him to work towards cultivating these qualities in himself.
This is a simple explanation of the meaning behind Buddhist devotional practices one see in shrines and temples, such as bowing, prostrating, lighting incense and candles, offering of flowers and fruit, which is common in all traditions.
While it is difficult to imagine Buddhism without the Buddha image or Rupa, it was not until about 500 years after the passing away (Parinirvana) that the practice of making images of the Buddha started. Since that time, Buddha images have been the object of Buddhist devotion and identify for over 2000 years, acting as the inspirational focus and the means for devotees to express their reverence and gratitude for the Buddha's Dharma or Teachings.
The reasons for the Buddha image on the shrine are:
• to remind one of the qualities of Perfect Wisdom and Perfect Compassion of the Buddha,
• it serves to inspire us to develop these qualities as we recall the greatness of the Buddha and His Teachings.
Some days, we may feel agitated, angry or depressed. When we pass by a shrine in our homes or visit a temple, and see the peaceful image of the Buddha, it helps us to remember that there are beings that are peaceful and we can become like them too. Automatically, our minds settle down.
Buddhists pay respect to the Buddha to show their gratitude to Him for showing the way to Enlightenment and liberation by:
Folded Palms
• Place the palms together and raise them to the level of the chest.
• This gesture expresses our deep reverence to the Triple Gem - Buddha, Dharma and Sangha.
Prostration
• Prostrating before an image of the Buddha or members of the Sangha expresses our deep veneration.
• This also helps us to overcome egoistic feelings (pride) to become more ready to listen to the Teaching of the Buddha.
• As we prostrate before the Buddha images, we recall the qualities of the Buddha and develop respect for their qualities such as loving-kindness, compassion, virtue, patience, concentration and wisdom. Showing respect to the Buddha and his qualities inspires us to develop these extraordinary qualities ourselves.
What is the purpose of making offerings to the Buddha?
• We make offerings not because the Buddha needs them - the Buddha is an enlightened being, He certainly does not need an incense stick to be happy!
• Nor do we make offerings to win the Buddha's favour. The Buddha developed universal loving-kindness and compassion long ago and won't be swayed by flattery and bribery the way we ordinary beings are.
• We make offerings to create positive energy and develop good qualities such as giving with a respectful attitude and gratitude.
• Moreover, the offerings remind us of certain teachings of the Buddha.
Offering of Light (Lamp/Candle)
• Light symbolizes wisdom.
• Light drives away darkness.
• Similarly, the light of wisdom dispels the darkness of ignorance.
Offering of Incense
• When incense is lit, its fragrance spreads.
• Incense symbolizes the fragrance of pure moral conduct.
• This reminds us to cultivate good conduct.
Offering of Water
• Water symbolizes purity, clarity and calmness.
• This reminds us to practise the Buddha's teachings, so as to cleanse our mindsh are full of desire, ill-will and ignorance, and to attain the state of purity.
Offering of Fruit
• Fruit symbolizes the ultimate fruit of Enlightenment which is our goal.
• Fruit also reminds us that all actions will have their effect.
Offering of Flowers
• The freshness, fragrance and beauty of flowers are impermanent.
• Fresh and beautiful flowers will soon become withered, scentless and discoloured.
• This reminds us of the Buddha's teaching that all things are impermanent.
• We should value what we have now and live in the present.
The Lotus
The most common flower seen in Buddhist shrines, or on the base of statues, are lotuses, as they represent the potential or actuality of Enlightenment.
• The lotus grows out of the mud and blossoms above the water surface, yet it is not dirtied by the mud from which it grows.
• The Buddha is likened to the lotus. Like a lotus that rises out of a muddy pond, the Buddha rose above the defilements and sufferings of life.
• We are right now surrounded by defilements and sufferings, just as the lotus seed is surrounded by dirt, mud and filth. We should rise above our defilements and sufferings, just like the lotus flower arising above the muddy water.
• This serves to remind us of our own potential Buddhahood. We may have defilements today, but we all have the potential of growing out of defilements and achieving wisdom like the Buddha.