Image Source: mmcofbhutan.com

Buddha is a title that means “The Enlightened One” or “The Awakened One.” It refers to Siddhartha Gautama, who lived over 2,500 years ago and founded Buddhism, a spiritual tradition that has deeply influenced Bhutanese culture, as well as many other regions of Asia.

Siddhartha Gautama was born into a royal family in Lumbini, in what is now Nepal, around the 6th century BCE. His father, King Suddhodana, ruled the Shakya clan, and Siddhartha was raised in luxury, shielded from the sufferings of the world. However, at the age of 29, he encountered the “Four Sights”—an old man, a sick man, a dead body, and a wandering ascetic. These sights profoundly affected him, leading him to realize that suffering is an inherent part of life.

​​Determined to find a solution to the problem of suffering, Siddhartha renounced his royal life and embarked on a spiritual quest. After years of studying under various teachers and practicing extreme asceticism, he realized that neither indulgence nor severe austerity could lead to enlightenment. He then chose the “Middle Way,” a path of moderation.

At the age of 35, Siddhartha meditated under the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, India, where he attained enlightenment, becoming the Buddha. He spent the rest of his life teaching the Dharma (the teachings), guiding others on the path to enlightenment, and establishing the Buddhist community, or Sangha.

In Bhutan, the Buddha is revered as the ultimate teacher and embodiment of enlightenment. His teachings form the core of the spiritual and ethical life of the Bhutanese people. Buddhism was introduced to Bhutan in the 7th century by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo and later strengthened by Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) in the 8th century. The Buddha’s influence is evident in the countless monasteries, stupas, and statues found throughout Bhutan, as well as in the everyday practices of the Bhutanese people.

​One of the most iconic representations of the Buddha in Bhutan is the Buddha Dordenma statue, a massive bronze statue of the Shakyamuni Buddha located in the capital, Thimphu. This statue is a symbol of peace and prosperity, and it embodies the spiritual aspirations of the Bhutanese people.

In Bhutanese Buddhism, the Buddha is not only honored as a historical figure but also as a transcendent being who is present in various forms to guide and protect sentient beings. The principles of compassion, wisdom, and non-attachment taught by the Buddha are integral to Bhutan’s national philosophy of Gross National Happiness (GNH), which emphasizes the well-being and happiness of all citizens.

The Buddha, as the Enlightened One, represents the pinnacle of spiritual realization and serves as an inspiration for all those on the path to enlightenment. His teachings, centered on the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path, offer a profound guide to overcoming suffering and achieving lasting peace and happiness. In Bhutan, the Buddha’s legacy is deeply woven into the fabric of society, influencing not only religious practices but also the values and way of life of the Bhutanese people. Through meditation, ethical conduct, and the pursuit of wisdom, the teachings of the Buddha continue to guide individuals toward a life of compassion, mindfulness, and spiritual fulfillment.

Product 0035 showcases the depiction of Buddha emerging from ‘Bogh’.

Our Timber Source is a remarkable piece with a rich history. It was originally utilized as a Bogh element in Chagri Monastery and is believed to be around 400 years old. The age and significance of this timber element make it a valuable addition to any collection.