Page 25 - Popular Deities of Chinese Buddhism (Illustrated) and Symbols

Upon entering the front hall of the temple, one is met with the

idea of ‘protection’ from the celestial beings and as one stands

before the Buddha’s image, one is reminded of Sakyamuni’s com-

passion, benevolence and wisdom. Looking at the Bodhisattvas’

images he sees their particular attributes so that Kuan Yin’s im-

age instantly reminds him of her infinite mercy, compassion and

other gentle qualities. Many a troubled mind have found solace

and comfort upon looking at the sweet image of Kuan Yin. Even

the animals which are portrayed with the deities have their own

symbolic meanings. us Fu Hsien’s great white elephant indi-

cates purity, caution, strength, gentleness and a weighty dignity

while the lion of Wen-shu represents honour, boldness, bravery

and a fresh, eager and advancing spirit as well as the wild and

almost untameable spirit of the unruly mind which one must

eventually subdue in order to gain wisdom and enlightenment.

In the Arhat’s images one sees those who have perfected them-

selves by ridding their worldly passions and earned the freedom

from samsaric sufferings. Such is the symbolism of the Chinese

Buddhist images which one should know of instead of jumping

into wrong conclusions, which are the causes of ill-will. ere-

fore when a Buddhist bows before a holy image and makes his

offerings, one should know that this is but an act of respect and

veneration to the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas.

 