Lotus, Symbol Of Buddhism And Thailand.

The lotus is the traditional flower of Buddhism. The symbol has influenced many aspects of the Thai life.

According to Buddhist Holy Scriptures, a lotus blossom symbolizes the birth of Lord Buddha. Thus by extension, it has also become a symbol of Buddhism and Thailand.

It has been widely accepted that the Buddha once compared man to the lotus at different stages of growth.

-Those who cannot accept any of the teachings of truth resemble a lotus that has started to grow but is still submerged under the mud.

-Those who have heard his words but understand very little resemble a lotus that has emerged from the mud but is still submerged under water.

-Those who understand most of his sayings are compared to the lotus, which has risen above water.

It is these reasons why the lotus is considered a sacred flower. That is why the Buddhist monasteries and royal halls where murals featuring the Buddha in a variety of postures – walking, standing, sitting, sleeping – are common. He is either depicted conspicuously beside or resting on a lotus.

Thais generally offer three lotus blossoms to the Buddha image, each representing the Enlightened One, his teachings, and his disciples.

There are many varieties of lotus; they come in five different colors – white, red, violet, pink, and soft green. However, the most commonly depicted lotus blossom is Bua Luang, which literally means ‘the royal lotus.’

The lotus grows abundantly if there is sufficient sunlight and lots of water. Ponds, swamps, canal, or even earthen jars filled with water are the best places for them to grow.

It is very significant in the lives of Thais that its design is frequently engraved in traditional household utensils, including garden. It is also the most popularly used design on Thai silk. Even the Thai temples are noticeably influenced by the contours of the lotus.

Without the lotus, things would be very different in Thailand.

Adapted from What’s On Chiangmai.