The Significance of the Lotus Flower in Buddhism Research Paper

The Significance of the Lotus Flower in Buddhism - Research Paper Example Buddhism is widespread in the Southeast Asia and Sri Lanka (Theravada), and East Asia (Mahayana) (Suguro and Montgomery 3). Accordingly, it is influential to millions of adherents, of not only Buddhism, but also Hinduism and Egyptology. Importantly to the Buddhists is the symbolic representation of the lotus flower as the seat of Buddha. To be noted is that various Asian deities are often depicted while seated on the lotus flower. This thereby further portrays the purity of essence represented through its many flower petals; diverse but brightly lit flowers. It is from this that the second major meaning of the flower is derived from purification of the human spirit, which is created into the murkiness of the world. Inadvertently, the third crucial representation is that of faithfulness, founded upon the fact that those who seek to be adherents, ‘rising above the muddy waters’, need to be followers who are grounded in their faith (Penney 48). The Lotus Flower is a major s ymbol in Buddhism, in addition to the Dharma wheel and the Stupa. It holds significant importance to adherents of Buddhism due to existing legend, which portrays the greatness of Gautama Buddha who was born with the capability to walk as a child. Furthermore is that wherever he went, upon which ground he strode, different lotus. The Lotus Flower is a major symbol in Buddhism, in addition to the Dharma wheel and the Stupa. It holds significant importance to adherents of Buddhism due to existing legend, which portrays the greatness.