During our temple excursions today, one of the temples we visited was Zuoying Yuandi Temple. On the way to the temple, we passed by a lotus pond, and our gracious Professor Young informed us that the lotus flowers in the pond are actually considered sacred because they’re associated with Buddha.
One can often see Buddha sitting on these lotus flowers as they’re associated with Buddhas rise into Nirvana and enlightenment. It symbolizes the moment he sheds his worldly roots and ascends, transcending above the impurities and continuous distractions of the world.
This idea of transcendence is deeply reflected in how the lotus flowers grow. Listening to the words of the professor, I learned that these lotus flowers don’t bloom in crystal-clear waters. Instead, they sprout from the mud, murky, thick, and rooted in what can be seen as the filth of the world. This mud represents sin, suffering, and the earthly attachments we all struggle with. And yet, from that very same mud, something beautiful and pure emerges. The lotus blooms, symbolizing spiritual awakening and enlightenment, a rising from suffering into clarity and peace.
Learning about this symbolism reminded me how meaningful it is to explore and learn more about a religion. It’s an enriching experience, offering lessons that we can reflect on and apply in our own way, in our own lives, through the lens of our own religion.
With that, I’ll talk to you later. Bye!
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