Buddhist Beliefs

One of Buddhism’s best recognized motifs is the lotus flower. Buddhism lotus flower appears in all kinds of Buddhist art, across all Buddhist cultures. Every important deity is associated with the lotus flower in some way, either being seated upon a lotus in full bloom or holding one in their hands. Some images of a standing Buddha show him standing with each foot on a separate lotus flower.

The lotus flower is one of the Eight Auspicious Symbols of Buddhism and is one of the most poignant representations of Buddhist teaching.

The lotus plant grows in water; however, only the roots are in the mud, the stem grows up through the water and holds the heavily scented flower above the water. Buddhists believe that the pattern of growth of the lotus signifies the progress of the soul from the mud of materialism, as it grows through the waters of experience and into the bright sunlight of enlightenment.

According to the Lalitavistara, “the spirit of the best of men is spotless, like the lotus in the muddy water which does not adhere to it.”

The lotus is native to southern Asia and can be found growing at altitudes of up to 1,600 metres. The flowers can grow as large as a cabbage and the leaves can grow as large as dinner plates.

The lotus plant does not grow in Tibet and as such only a stylized version is used. The scrolling lotus is often seen on Buddhist textiles, ceramics and architecture.

The color of the lotus flower has an important bearing on the symbolism associated with it.

The White Lotus represents the state of spiritual perfection and total mental purity. The White Lotus is also associated with the White Tara and proclaims her perfect nature, a quality which is reinforced by her white body.

The Pink Lotus is the supreme lotus and usually reserved for the highest deity and as such it is associated with the Great Buddha himself.

The Red Lotus represents the original nature and purity of the heart. It is the lotus of love, compassion, passion and all other qualities of the heart. The Red Lotus is the flower of Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of compassion.

The Blue Lotus represents the victory of the spirit over the senses and signifies the wisdom of knowledge. The Blue Lotus is the flower of Manjushri, the Bodhisattva of wisdom. The Blue lotus is shown as double flowers with curly petals.