1. Buddhist Symbols and Icons:
Buddha Images
Stupa
Lotus Flower
Buddhapada
The Wheel of Life
Mandala

2. Overview
Buddhism is very rich in symbols – the are a way to help clarify the abstract teachings of the Buddha.
The next few slides will outline some of the major symbols and icons used in the Buddhist tradition.

3. Buddha Images
The portrayal of the Buddha differs according to the part of the world where his image is found
He often appears standing, seated in the lotus position, or lying down
He is often dressed as a monk with his left shoulder covered and right shoulder bare

4. Buddha Images
Malaysian
Tibetan
Chinese
Reclined

5. Mundras
Mundras are hand gestures that Buddhists developed from the Hindu tradition
They are used in meditation or seen on Buddha images
There are many mundras which represent different states of mind

6. Types of Mundras Meditation Turning of the Dharma Wheel
Pressing the Earth
Turning of the Dharma wheel while in meditation
Bestowal of Supreme Accomplishment

7. Stupas
Stupas are domed shaped mounds that were built to house the relics of the Buddha or other holy figures
Almost every Buddhist temple has one
A pilgrimage to a stupa and the construction of a small stupa are considered to be merit-gaining activities

8. Images of Stupas

9. The Lotus Flower
The Lotus Flower is one of the eight Buddhist auspicious symbols
Soon after Siddhartha’s enlightenment, he had a vision of the human race as a bed of lotus flowers. Some where stuck in the muck, others were emerging from it, while others were about to bloom. In the same way, all people have the ability to develop their potential and rise from an undesirable life (style).

10.                                                  
Buddhapada
The representation of Buddha’s footprints are found in all Buddhist countries
They are usually carved in stone
The toes are all the same length
Usually a dharma wheel is centered on the sole of each foot print

11. The Wheel of Life
The wheel of life is a complete visual representation of samsara – the endless cycle of uncontrollable rebirths
The wheel is held in the teeth of Yama, lord of death. No-one being in the wheel is outside of the control of death.
page 184

12. Mandala
These designs, created with colored sand, are a representation of the center of the universe in which a fully awakened being stands
Once the mandala is completed, prayers and chants are recited before it is swept away – this represents the impermanence of the world.
Tibetan Mandala