Browse Items (19 total)

A Vajra meaning "thunderbolt" or "diamond" in Sanskrit is a ritual object symbolically used by dharma traditions such as Buddhism, Jainism, and Hinduism. The Vajra symbolizes properties of a diamond (indestructibility) and of a thunderbolt…

Avalokiteshvara is one of the most famous "bodhisattvas" or "Buddha-to-be" in Buddhism, specifically in Mahayana Buddhist legend. According to the legend, Avalokiteshvara postponed his own Buddahood until he has helped every sentient achieve freedom…

Temple bells are common instruments found in Buddhist temples, most often in temples throughout Japan. The purpose of the bells is to summon monks for prayer or announce periods of time. The bells also help aid in meditation and prayer recitations.…

A Buddhist prayer wheel, most prevalent in the Tibetan Buddhism, is a mechanical device that is used as an equivalent to a recitation of a mantra. They can be made out of metal, wood, leather, stone or coarse cotton. Each turn of the wheel by hand…

Pagodas are Buddhist temples that are tower-like, multistory buildings that are typically predominant in East and Southeast Asia. The structure of a pagoda originated from "stupas" built in ancient India. Pagodas symbolize sacred mountains and…

Incense holders have hollowed bowls that are usually filled with sand in order to hold incense sticks straight up. A majority of Buddhist use incense burners in their homes or temples as a ritual of worship for various deities. Incense sticks are…

Chinese guardian lions sometimes recalled Shishi, refer to lion sculptures often found in parts of Asia such as China, Japan, Korea, and Thailand. The image originates from Chinese Buddhism where they are believed to have powerful protective…

A Buddhist prayer wheel, most prevalent in the Tibetan Buddhism, is a mechanical device that is used as an equivalent to a recitation of a mantra. They can be made out of metal, wood, leather, stone or coarse cotton. Each turn of the wheel by hand…

The Bodhi Tree also is known as Bo or "peepal" tree was large, the sacred fig tree that was located in Bodh Gaya. It is known for being the tree that Siddhartha Gautama, also known as the Buddha sat under to attain enlightenment. The name "Bodhi…

Buddha or Gautama Buddha whose original name was Siddartha Gautama was the founder of Buddhism. Siddartha Gautama is believed to have lived in the eastern part of ancient India between the 6th and 4th century, teaching severe asceticism. Gautama is…