Our masterpiece Shakyamuni Buddha statue represents the original Buddha. Indeed, he earned the title “Sammasambuddha” because he discovered the Dharma path on his own and obtained access to Nirvana. Additionally, he taught all of his followers how to realize enlightenment. Therefore, all subsequent Buddhas and the sangha have followed in his footsteps.
Shakyamuni Buddha was the father of the original Buddhist ideology. As a result of its subsequent acceptance and popularity, it has spread far from it’s origins. Indeed, the original teachings of the Buddha gave rise to Theravada, Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism.
Shakyamuni Buddha Statue Features
In honor of his achievements this masterpiece Shakyamuni Buddha statue is depicted in the Bhumisparsha “Earth Touching” mudra. This is because it celebrates overcoming immense pressure from the temptations of evil. While meditating under the bodhi tree on the verge of enlightenment, he was set upon by Mara with worldly temptations. However, Maras efforts of persuasion were in vain and Mara was permanently defeated. Shakyamuni Buddha then called on the earth goddess as a witness.
The earth goddess arrived and washed away the demon. As a result, Shakyamuni Buddha became the first enlightened being of our time. However, Shakyamuni Buddha did not leave his followers behind. Instead, he stayed with them to help others follow the path to enlightenment.
This 52cm gold gilded Shakyamuni Buddha statue sits in full lotus pose on a double lotus pedestal. The lotus flower is a symbol of Shakyamuni Buddha because the Buddha rose above the vicissitudes of samsara to obtain enlightenment. Metaphorically speaking, the lotus grows from the bottom of a pond to rise out of the muddy water and blossom in the clean air and sunshine. Additionally, the alms bowl of a monastic monk rests in the palm of his hand. Inside this bowl lies the three nectars which Shakyamuni Buddha used to overcome the evil demon and the defilements. Read more about Shakyamuni Buddha here.
