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This is a Buddhist temple in Japan called a pagoda. Pagodas
have five tiers representing Earth, Water, Fire, Wind and Emptiness. The
spire at the top symbolizes wisdom reaching above the physical world.
Buddhism Spread east from India to China and Japan.
The foot symbolizes the teaching of Buddah, following in
his footsteps so-to-speak.
This is a monk wearing traditional monk's clothes. Monks
lead simple lives, living in the sangha, or community of monks. The conical
hat provides shade from the sun. Meditation is a central part of the life
of a monk. Monks beg for food and alms as they have given up worldly possessions.
in some Buddhist contries it is customary for young boys to spend some
time living in a monastery as part of their training and education.
The eight-spoked wheel represents the Eightfold path, steps
to enlightenment, which teach a way of living that lead to nirvana or
enlightenment. The center symbol suggests the lotus follower. The lotus
flower.
Buddha whose name means "awakened one" discovered
and taught his followers the path to enlightenment.
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