The Origin of the Buddha Image & Elements of Buddhist IconographyTwo foundational texts, enhanced by a third, "The Nature of Buddhist Art," are concerned not only with providing a language for reading the artistic and linguistic symbols for Buddhism, but also show how these symbols are conducive to self realization, which is the aim of all sacred art. Providing a schema of what is of the utmost value in all the world's great spiritual traditions as they pertain to transforming the understanding life and the spiritual process, clear expositions on the significance of the most profound Buddhist symbols are offered, including the poses, the Lotus (the ground of manifestation), the Bodhi Tree (the Tree of Life synonymous with all existence), and the Wheel (the operation of principles). The portrayal of the "Kingdom of Heaven Within" in Buddhist etymology, iconography, and metaphysics is explored, and this whole cosmology--which would appear to be outward--is revealed to be located within the human heart itself. This work demonstrates that art is not solely for instruction or visual/mental pleasure, but intends to liberate the beholder from the restless activity that obscures reality and inhibits inner peace. |
Contents
DIFFERENTIATION OF INDIAN AND HELLENISTIC TYPES 27 | 53 |
DATING OF GANDHARA AND MATHURA BUDDHAS 33 | |
TREE OF LIFE EARTHLOTUS AND WORDWHEEL 2 | 3 |
Copyright | |
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Common terms and phrases
actually Agni already Angels anthropomorphic appears artist aspect Awakening axis becomes beginning birth Bodhisattva body Brahman Brāhmaṇa Buddha Buddha image Buddhist Buddhist art called centre century century A. D. Christian cited coins conception connection corresponds cult deity designation discussed divine early earth elements equally evidence example existence expressed fact figure flower four Gandhara ground hand Heaven History human iconography idea implies Indian indicated king later lotus manifested Mathura Māyā means merely Museum nature object operation origin period Person pillar point of view possible present Principle realized reference regarded remarked representations represented respect Ṛg Veda sculpture seated second century seen sense significance space speak Spirit spoken standing supported symbol Tathāgata texts things thought throne tion tradition Tree understand Universe vajra Vedic Waters Wheel worship