The reasons for the Buddha image on the shrine are: to remind one of the qualities of Perfect Wisdom and Perfect Compassion of the Buddha, it serves to inspire us to develop these qualities as we recall the greatness of the Buddha and His Teachings.Some days, we may feel agitated, angry or depressed. When we pass by a shrine in our homes or visit a temple, and see the peaceful image of the Buddha, it helps us to remember that there are beings that are peaceful and we can become like them too. Automatically, our minds settle down.

Buddhist Shrines

While it is difficult to imagine Buddhism without the Buddha image or Rupa, it was not until about 500 years after the passing away (Parinirvana) that the practice of making images of the Buddha started. Since that time, Buddha images have been the object of Buddhist devotion and identify for over 2000 years, acting as the inspirational focus and the means for devotees to express their reverence and gratitude for the Buddha's Dharma or Teachings.

Folded Palms

• Place the palms together and raise them to the level of the chest.

• This gesture expresses our deep reverence to the Triple Gem - Buddha, Dharma and Sangha.

Prostration

• Prostrating before an image of the Buddha or members of the Sangha expresses our deep veneration.

• This also helps us to overcome egoistic feelings (pride) to become more ready to listen to the Teaching of the Buddha.

As we prostrate before the Buddha images, we recall the qualities of the Buddha and develop respect for their qualities such as loving-kindness, compassion, virtue, patience, concentration and wisdom. Showing respect to the Buddha and his qualities inspires us to develop these extraordinary qualities ourselves.