Reese Buddhas in Garden
Since ancient times, statues and images depicting the Buddha were placed in gardens and temple grounds. Gardening has strong connections to Buddhism.
It is believed that
The garden’s soil represents Buddha’s fertile ground. A Sangha is a Buddhist community. Dhamma is the expression and teachings of Buddha.
A garden can be considered a mind if it is:
Paths are the paths to enlightenment. The soil is our internal Karma. Its planting is indicative of fertile and blooming ideas. The changing seasons are a sign of changing moods. According to Eastern tradition, the Buddha should not face the south because Yama, a Hindu god associated with the judge of the dead, is the preferred direction. When placing Buddha statues into the garden, it is best to face north.
Buddhist gardens
Pure Land Buddhism
Pure Land Buddhism, originally from China, inspired the creation of Buddhist gardens in Japan. It features the Mandala of the Buddha with a temple, a garden and as its center piece. This Mandala has been a source of inspiration for gardens that have similar symbolism.
Zen Buddhism
Zen Buddhism holds that a beautiful garden can help you find happiness and enlightenment. It takes skill, artistic judgment, a deep understanding and constant attention to nature. Gardening can also be considered a spiritual activity.
They should have:
- This is a beautiful spot to sit quietly or meditate.
- There are many paths to walking meditation.
- A lotus pool with a Buddha statue.
- A place to feed fish, birds, or other animals.
Ten of the Most Beautiful Buddhist Gardens in the World
1. Totekiko Temple Gardens, Kyoto Japan
Totekiko is one the five gardens at Ryogen,Temple Kyoto in Japan. It was built in 1958 and is the smallest Japanese rock garden. This small garden is made up of simple, attractive boulders that have been placed on raked soil. These rocks are enclosed by concentric gravel circles, and connected by parallel furrows and ridges. The sun briefly shines on the garden at noon every day. In winter, it can be covered with snow. It is symbolic of a Zen saying that the more difficult a stone is to be thrown in, then the greater the ripples.
It also contains three other gardens: Isshi-dan and Koda-tei. Ryogin-tei is a moss-covered garden that is believed to be the oldest in Daitoku-ji.
2. Imperial War Museum Peace Garden, London UK
This peaceful and beautiful area can be found in the park, just in front of Lambeth’s Imperial War Museum. This garden promotes non-violence and world peace. It is also known as “The Garden of Contemplation” in Tibetan. Many Buddhist symbols are used in the decoration and design. The Dalai Lama’s message in four languages is displayed on a tall pillar.
The eight spoke Buddhist Wheel that represents the Noble Eightfold Path is the basis of the garden’s design. Eight stone seats are placed in a circle to represent the eight principles of the Noble Eightfold Path. This seat allows you to focus on the center of the garden. A trellis with plants from the Himalayas is located around the perimeter. This garden represents the elements Earth, Fire and Air, and is frequently visited by Tibetan Buddhist teachers visiting London.
