Paper Hanging Lamps :: Gentle Gaze Lantern

All things have a story...

In Buddha's time, as can be seen in some places today, it was thought that only the males and the fortunate could achieve spiritual realization. The Buddha knew better and claimed that everyone could. He was one of the first great religious figures to recognize that women were equal to men and could become Buddhas as well. The Four Noble Truths are in effect simple but a very powerful and cogent message that lies at the heart of the Buddha's teachings.

Today, the image of a Buddhist statue helps us to remember the message of the Buddha and the perfect realization that he reached and which is possible for us. The Buddha never wanted his followers to idolize him with statues and images, although it has happened in some countries. Most Buddhists who follow the teachings of Buddha carefully know that all the images and icons they see of Buddha are for inspiration and to acknowledge his teachings, not the man himself. After all, the Buddha said, "If you see me walking towards you on the path to realization, kill me and keep on going."