Nothing symbolizes purity and perfection more than the lotus. It also has spiritual and religious connotations…it’s petals are said to symbolize the doctrine of Buddha’s teachings. There is great love and reverence for the lotus flower in the east due to the importance of this symbol in many of the Buddhist traditions. And we often see that Buddha himself is depicted sitting on a sacred lotus with straight back and folded limbs in front…called the lotus posture.
This is a posture assumed by Buddhist monks and holy masters when they meditate and teach the sutras. Many Dharma students also sit lotus position when attending teachings or meditating. Even if it is difficult for you and you feel pain or cramping it’s good to practice as this position is very conducive to quieting the body thereby aiding in meditation and keeping your back straight helps with chi flow in the body.
Om Mani Padme Hum is also known as the lotus mantra…the mantra of the Compassionate Buddha and reciting it many times is said to bring a shower of blessings. Since the Chinese manifestation of the Compassionate Buddha is the Goddess of Mercy Kuan Yin, this is therefore the Kuan Yin mantra. In India the Compassionate Buddha is known as Avilokiteshvara while in Tibet as Chenresig.
In feng shui the lotus is believed to symbolize the purity of love. For those of you who believe in and desire “old-fashioned” love with marriage and a good family life…I suggest you incorporate the lotus symbol – either the real plant or flower or artificial decoration into your surroundings to nurture a true feeling of peace and contentment.
Love,
Lillian