Buddha statues have a wide variety of meanings. It is thought that the first Buddha statues were not created until four hundred to five hundred years after his death.
Therefore, much is left to the interpretation of the artist. But there are certain characteristics that you will find in all of these statues. The symbolism of each depends upon the posture and hand gestures they exhibit.
There are in excess of one hundred different poses referred to as an asana or otherwise known as an attitude. Each asana will have a specific hand gesture with it that symbolizes its meaning.
Some common poses are the left hand in lap, with the right hand pointed at the ground with its palms facing the Buddha. It is commonly referred to as ” Calling the Land to Witness”.
Enlightenment, is what such pose possess in meaning and this does not mean for the Buddha alone but also to the whole earth. Folklore has it that a demon Mara casts fears and temptations which are then blocked by these Buddhas who meditate all night long.
Then the Buddha seeks the presence of the Earth Goddess as a witness to this enlightenment. She, on the other hand, wrung her hair and sends Mara, along with all her temptations, away.
Possibly the most famous asana is the “Single Lotus” position. This is where Buddha has one leg resting upon the other.
A “Double Lotus” position is in place when the Buddha has locked in the heel of one leg. It becomes a representation of protection when it has its right hand raised and palm outward.
Other symbolism based on posture and hand gestures are “Meditation”, showing inner wisdom and clarity and “Medicine” signifying healing. There is also “Teaching” and of course “Contemplation” Buddhas as well.
Majority of the Buddha figurines that are being sold in the market are considered to attain the nature of tranquility while providing an aura of faith and serenity.
So, before you go and but any Buddha figurine, it is advisable that you take note of its representation to give justice to its value prior to the actual purchasing of such merchandise.
Symbols are fairly interesting to get to know. It speaks of you being fairly serious about life and its purpose. Get to know more about Buddha symbolism by simply visiting this site: Buddha statues. Check out our catalog list at the temple for Buddha Figurines and be enlighten with its meaning.
