Our beautiful Shakyamuni Buddha statue represents the most venerable Buddha of our time. Shakyamuni is the original Buddha, also known as a Sammasambuddha. This is because he was the original Buddha who discovered the Dharma path and obtained access to Nirvana. Additionally, he chose to teach the Dharma to sentient beings. As a result, the original teachings of the Buddha gave rise to Theravada, Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism.
Shakyamuni Buddha Statue Mudras
In honor of his achievements this masterpiece Shakyamuni Buddha statue is depicted in the Bhumisparsha “earth touching” mudra. This is because it celebrates overcoming temptations from worldly pleasures presented to him by the demon Mara. As a result of the attacks of the demon Mara, Shakyamuni called on the earth goddess as a witness.
In response to his beckoning she came to witness the ineffectiveness of Mara’s efforts. Therefore, she washed away the demon and Shakyamuni became the first enlightened being of our time. However, Shakyamuni Buddha did not leave his followers behind and he shared the path to enlightenment.
The Buddha instructs us to use meditation to gain mental and spiritual strength. Only after gaining the necessary temperament and strength can we face down our inner demons. Therefore, in his left hand he is depicting the Dhyana “meditation” mudra. The back of the hand lies gently in his lap. The alms bowl of a Buddhist monk is in the palm of his hand. This bowl holds the three nectars which will eliminate the three poisons of greed, hatred and ignorance. Click here to learn more about Shakyamuni Buddha.
