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ENCOUNTERING THE BUDDHA: ART AND PRACTICE ACROSS ASIA
Discovering the Buddha's Universal Influence
Born in a kingdom on the Nepalese-Indian border around 5th century BCE, as a prince, he was deeply troubled by life's inevitable struggles-disease, aging and death. Eventually, he renounced his royal status to embark on a journey of spiritual enlightenment as a holy man.
After years of extreme self-discipline med at finding answers, his rigorous meditation brought forth profound insights; realizing that attachment to impermanent things causes suffering. This breakthrough led him to be called Buddha or Awakened One. He devoted himself to sharing this wisdom, laying the foundation for Buddhism across diverse cultures and continents.
A single enlightened individual has repeatedly discovered these timeless truths throughout history, becoming a buddha in every era, according to Buddhist traditions. The path to Buddhahood is often long and challenging; it takes many lifetimes of exemplary virtue for some spiritual seekers.
Buddhas of the Past, Present Future: A Shared Legacy
In Buddhism, enlightenment means realizing the true cause of suffering and teaching others how to alleviate it. It's believed that only one Buddha might exist in an era, or multiple Buddhas could be present simultaneously; each guides followers along the path towards overcoming sorrow.
These teachings and figures inspired various forms of practice centered around specific Buddhas, yet all share a common legacy of enlightenment. As a result, all Buddhas are represented with similar physical characteristics as part of the sacred tradition.
Bodhisattvas: Guiding Luminaries on the Path
To attn Buddhahood is an ambitious goal that requires countless lifetimes of ethical conduct and spiritual growth. With a vow to become a Buddha for the benefit of others, an aspirant becomes a Bodhisattva.
Motivated by deep compassion, Bodhisattvas accumulate good karma over numerous lifetimes through virtuous deeds. They are esteemed figures who can provide guidance on both worldly matters and religious practices due to their advanced spiritual state.
Typically depicted as radiant beings adorned with precious jewelry, Bodhisattvas reflect the perfected inner qualities of wisdom and patience that they have cultivated. This outward beauty is a testament to their long-standing commitment to virtuous living.
Continuing Your Journey
Explore Buddhist art across Asia further through exhibits at the FreerSackler Gallery:
BODY IMAGE: ARTS OF THE INDIAN SUBCONTINENT
CENTER OF THE WORLD: CHINA THE SILK ROAD
PLEDGE OF PARADISE: BUDDHISM IN MEDIEVAL CHINA
And discover how art reflects Buddhism in these diverse regions.
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This article is reproduced from: https://asia-archive.si.edu/exhibition/buddhas-across-borders/
Please indicate when reprinting from: https://www.58ep.com/Buddhist_Bodhisattva/Encountering_the_Buddha_Art_and_Practice_Across_Asia.html
Universal Influence of Buddha Across Asia Buddhas Enlightenment Journey and Teachings Artistic Representation of Buddhism in Exhibits Diversity in Asian Buddhist Practices Explained Bodhisattvas Role in Guiding the Path to Buddhahood Exploring Buddhist History Through Virtual Tours