One of a Kind Specials :: Understanding Buddha

Understanding Buddha

This magnificent resin statue is of a classic Buddha figure from the Sukhothai period (13th-14th centuries) in Thailand. The Sukhothai period is famous for sculpting Buddhas in an original and beautiful style, gaining high praise from art connoisseurs around the world for centuries. The Buddha statues of the Sukhothai period are known for their fine curled hair, flame aureole, gentle smile, downward gaze and high curved eyebrows. The Buddha in this statue is seated on a low throne with his hands in the cosmic mudra position, representing the enlightened state. Place this distinguished and impressive Buddha statue anywhere for a special decorative effect. Makes a great gift for lovers of the Buddha and is said to be a cause of good luck.

On sale!
$19.95 $13.95

Dimensions	H:6.5" x W:4" x D:2"
Material	Cast Resin
Weight	2.09 lbs (approx)

Shipping cost within the U.S.: $4.70
A minimum total shipping rate may apply.
A rate outside the U.S. can be found during checkout.

You can log in to add this item to your WishList!

All things have a story...

Buddhism contains many abstruse or unrecognizable terms that non-Buddhists usually have little understanding of. One of those terms is the word "bodhisattva". It is a word often heard in Buddhist circles but little understood by outsiders. A bodhisattva is a Buddhist who is on the spiritual path and is making progress towards enlightenment. It is a term often associated with the Mahayana sect of Buddhism, where it is believed that everyone can become a bodhisattva. As an example, in the Jataka tales which elaborated on the past lives of Buddha, it is said that he was a bodhisattva. While anyone on the spiritual path can be considered a bodhisattva, Mahayana Buddhist believes that one cannot technically be a bodhisattva unless he or she has cultured a great deal of compassion for all things.

According to Mahayana Buddhism, and in contrast to Zen, it is believed that enlightenment does not result from individual effort alone, but from interaction with the community and others. The viewpoint of the Mahayanists is that the outer world (what we call the real world) and our inner world are really the same. By having compassion for others, we actually have compassion for ourselves. This is the essence of the true bodhisattva. We do this by not only working on ourselves through meditation, which achieves an inner spiritual change, but through compassionate interaction with other people. The two together equate to wisdom and compassion and ultimately lead to enlightenment. The Mahayanists believe that one cannot exist without the other.

Many Buddhist art pieces show monks or Buddhas in meditation. This is an activity of the bodhisattva that represents wisdom. Many art pieces also show monks or the Buddha walking or communicating with animals or people. This is an activity of the bodhisattva that symbolizes compassion. The spiritual path is not an easy one to walk, but for those who do, it offers the most bountiful gifts and perhaps the ultimate prize - that of enlightenment.