Flowers & Buddhism Thailand: Lotus Flower As A Symbol Of Complete Enlightenment

Flowers, to some people, are merely gifts to loved ones during special occasions. They serve as symbols of affection, adornments, or a way to express gratefulness. However, In Thailand, aside from using flowers in their cooking and as decorations, flowers, particularly the Lotus flower, play a very important part in Thai life. Throughout Thailand and China, lotus flower can be found as adornment in temples. The lotus flower, an herb that grows from three and four and a half feet high and commonly found in ponds, small canals, swamps, and roadside ditches, has become a symbol of Buddhism. Lotus flowers & Buddhism Thailand are so closely interconnected that in fact, as Buddhism principles put it, a lotus that has not yet blossomed is similar to the heart of a person who has not yet attained enlightenment. A blooming lotus is thus a symbol of complete enlightenment.

The lotus is included in the eight auspicious symbols of Buddhist religion. Its place in the religion is signified by its representation in Buddhist holy books, "The Sutra on White Lotus of the Sublime Dharma." It is almost always represented in the most touching ways in the teachings of Buddhism. According to the teachings, despite the fact that the lotus grows in muddy water, it is still able to grow a produce a beautiful flower, basking in the sunlight. It is true that other water plants bloom above the water but only the lotus can rise above the surface-tall and strong. The lotus flower also appears across all Buddhist cultures and in all forms of Buddhist art. One often sees lotus flowers in Thailand in Buddhist textiles, ceramics, and architecture. In addition, Buddhist deities are always associated in some manner with this flower-whether holding one in their hands or being seated upon it in full bloom.

One should also know that the colors of the flower also have various meanings in Buddhism. White lotus represents the realization of spiritual perfection and total mental goodness. The supreme lotus, in pink, is always reserved for the Great Buddha or the highest deity. Compassion is the symbol of red lotus. All the qualities of the heart is what it represents-love, compassion, and passion. Lastly, the blue lotus, a symbolism of wisdom, represents the victory of the spirit over the senses. The lotus flowers, whether they are red, pink, white, or blue, are definitely an important part of Buddhism and Thai life and culture. A blooming lotus, a symbol of complete enlightenment, serves as the guide of every Buddhist and a reminder to him or her that rising above the materialistic nature of man towards enlightenment should be is goal throughout his lifetime.

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