Lotus Flowers & Buddhism Thailand: What Lotus Flower Signifies In Buddhism

Flowers, to some people, are merely gifts to loved ones during special occasions. Flowers are simply adornments, symbols of affection, or a way of saying thank you. 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. Accordingly, lotus thrives in the mud but still produces a beautiful flower lying above the water, stretching in the sunlight. Other water plants can also bloom above the water but only the lotus can grow tall and strong above the surface. Aside from the holy books of Buddhist, the lotus also appears in all forms of Buddhist art and across all its cultures. The lotus flowers in Thailand are widely represented in Buddhist textiles, ceramics, and architecture. Furthermore, deities of Buddhism are always pictured with the flower, some holding one in their hands or sitting upon it in full bloom.

It is also noteworthy to know that the colors of lotus bear with it various meanings. 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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