1. Buddhism
Symbols & Practices

2. 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”

3. 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

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

5. 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

6. 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

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

8. 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

9. 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 non-attachment and the achievement of nirvana

10. 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

11. 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 - YouTube

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

13. The Sky Burial
Tibetan Sky Burial - YouTube