Buddha rupa

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Picture or statue of the Buddha, from whom the teachings of Buddhism have evolved, or one of the subsequent Buddhas. Buddhas take many forms; their appearance, mudras (hand gestures), and different poses – seated, standing, or reclining – relate to their area of origin and have different symbolic meanings. Theravada Buddhists do not worship the image of the Buddha, but use it to show respect. Mahayana Buddhists are more likely to believe that direct worship of the image can bring them closer to enlightenment.

A seated Buddha may be in the lotus position (sitting cross-legged with both feet uppermost), or be seated on a lotus blossom. The lotus, a water lily, symbolizes the grounding of peoples' lives in suffering, as the lotus' roots are in mud. The mud, however, can be used for growth to reach enlightenment, just as the lotus rises above the mud and water to point to heaven. A standing Buddha may have his hand in front of his chest in a position of giving blessings. A reclining Buddha is about to die and enter nirvana.

A Buddha's short curly hair symbolizes that the Buddha cut his hair short when he left behind his palace and attachment to a material life in search of enlightenment. A topknot (an ornamental knot of hair worn on top of the head) represents the Buddha's wisdom. Long earlobes show that he used to wear heavy earrings and adornments, but has left these material riches behind. The spot on his forehead is a sign of enlightenment, while his smile symbolizes compassion.

Mudras are the hand gestures of the Buddha images. Each position has its own meaning, indicating intentions such as the granting of wishes, protection, teaching, or meditation.

The footprints of the Buddha are sometimes used to symbolize following his example; the soles of his feet may have the eight-spoked wheel or a lotus.

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