Outdoor Shrine: Bhumisparsha Mudra and Reclining Buddha
Buddhism, Buddha, Theravada, Watt Munisotaram
The outdoor temple of the Watt. In the foreground the Buddha statue is has the Bhumisparsha mudra, or the earth touching or earth witness mudra. This mudra, formed with all five fingers of the right hand extended to touch the ground, symbolizes the Buddha's enlightenment under the bodhi tree. The right hand, placed upon the right knee and complemented by the left hand-which is held flat in the lap as in the dhyana mudra of meditation, symbolizes the union of method and wisdom, samasara and nirvana, and the realizations of the conventional and ultimate truths.
http://www.lotussculpture.com/mudras.html
Will Yetvin
4/10/16
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2925 220th St E, Hampton, MN 55031
Reclining Buddha
Buddhism, Buddha, Theravada, Watt Munisotaram
A reclining Buddha is represents the historical Buddha during his last illness, about to enter the Nirvana. He is lying on the right flank, his head resting on a cushion or relying on his right elbow, supporting his head with his hand.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reclining_Buddha
Will Yetvin
4/10/16
Still image
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2925 220th St E, Hampton, MN 55031
Dhamma Wheel
Buddhism, Buddha, Theravada, Watt Munisotaram
The wheels around the stupa and the temple represent the dhamma (dharma in Sanskrit). Dhamma is widely defined to be the words of the Buddha, the practice of his teaching, and the attainment of enlightenment. Dhamma is not just doctrines; it is teaching plus practice plus enlightenment. The eight spokes on the wheel represents the eightfold path to enlightenment.
http://buddhism.about.com/od/basicbuddhistteachings/a/What-Is-Dharma-In-Buddhism.htm
Will Yetvin
5/24/16
Still image
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2925 220th St E, Hampton, MN 55031
Metteyya Buddha
Buddhism, Buddha, Theravada, Watt Munisotaram
This Buddha is the Buddha who has yet to come to earth. Known as Maitreya in Sanskrit and Metteyya in Pali, this Buddha is regarded as a bodhisattva who will appear on Earth in the future, achieve complete enlightenment, and teach the pure dharma. According to scriptures, Maitreya will be a successor to the present Buddha, Gautama Buddha.
Will Yetvin
5/24/16
Still image
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2925 220th St E, Hampton, MN 55031
Scene of Buddha's Birth
Buddhism, Watt Munisotaram
White Buddha statue scene with the grass represents when the Buddha was born. Buddha Shakyamuni was born as a royal prince in 624 BC in a place called Lumbini, in what is now Nepal.
Will Yetvin
4/17/16
Still image
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2925 220th St E, Hampton, MN 55031
Meditating Buddha under a Tree
Buddhism, Watt Munisotaram
Buddha with hands crossed in lap in the dhyana or meditation mudra, legs in the single lotus position, looking very hungry and ascetic. Having the statue under a tree in the midst of meditation might represent the Buddha meditating under the Bodhi tree for 49 day before attaining enlightenment or "awakening", according to tradition.
Will Yetvin
4/10/16
Still image
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2925 220th St E, Hampton, MN 55031
Painting Buddhas
Buddhism, Watt Munisotaram
Two men, a monk and a volunteer, carefully slather gold paint onto the miniature statues of the Buddha.
Will Yetvin
5/8/16
Still image
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2925 220th St E, Hampton, MN 55031
Painted Miniature Buddhas
Buddhism, Watt Munisotaram
5000 buddhas, all with the names of different donors ($200 donation per buddha) will eventually line the floors and walls of the lower and upper levels of the stupa.
Will Yetvin
4/16/16
Still image
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2925 220th St E, Hampton, MN 55031
NBMC Buddha Portrait
Buddhism
A portrait of a buddha
Anna Guasco
Religion Department (Carleton College)
5/30/13
Still Image
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NBMC_Buddha_Portrait.jpg
Northfield, MN