The Reason Why Stone Lotus Basin Stood in Beopjoo-sa temple
In the corner of the temple, there was a big stone lotus basin. It was also very unique stone sculpture.
I could not see that kind of stone lotus basin. It was believed to be made in Shilla dynasty, 720 AD. What made people carve this basin ?.
Scholars told that kind of sculpture was very rare in Korea. But nobody seemed to curious why they built that stone sculpture in this temple.
In my guess, the stone lotus basin is deeply related to the Buddhist teachings.
There are two kinds of Buddhism in the world, Mahayanist Buddhism and Hinayana Buddhism.
Mahayanist Buddhism spread into China, Korea and Japan, and Hinayana Buddhism spread over Sri Lanka , Cambodia and Thailand.
According to the geological location, Mahayanist Buddhism was called the Northern Buddhism, and Hinayana Buddhism was called the Southern Buddhism.
Among the Buddhist teachings, the northern Buddhism took the basic principles from the Lotus Sutra which had been taught by Buddha.
And Beopjoo-sa temple was the center of teaching the Lotus Sutra.
In my view, there must be mutual related meaning between the teaching of Buddha, the Lotus Sutra, and the Stone Lotus Basin. The stone lotus basin could be interpreted the teachings of Buddha, the Lotus Sutra.
interesting..as always. Every stone tells a story
wonderful stone lotus.
@slowwalker,
You greatly described the difference of Buddhism here! Hinayana also called as Theravada Buddhism! That's what we believe! Anyway whatever it is, we all are seeking Sathya aka Nirvana at the end!
I have never see this Lotus Basin before! And it's well crafted! Thank you very much for sharing this great article with valuable description!
Triple Gems Bless You~
Buddhism is such an extensive cultural phenomenon. its so much deeper than just a religion, its a history so vibrant it could blind you!
Its always fun to learn about the various histories connected with Buddhism.
You know, by the way, at first I thought this sculpture was not special. But looking at it - it really resembles a lotus. You are an unusual dude and you have a unique blog and a look at things. I love you, friend;) I wanted to ask if you will be on Steem Fest, I would very much like to see you there.
@slowwalker, You better explained where spread Mahayanist Buddhism and Hinayana Buddhism. Yep...Hinayana Buddhism deeply spread in Sri Lanka. Those stone lotus basin Stood in Beopjoo-sa temple amazing architecture used from old citizens. Also it's really rare design.
But you have best opinion why they built those Stone Lotus Basin Stood. Thanks for great pics and better explanation.
I love such archaeological gems! They make you realize we don't know so much about past culture. I enjoy to speculate about what, why and how.. and I like your interpretation. Thank you for sharing!
It looks very beautiful. It seems that this is a huge jar for wine from which the gods drank. Interestingly, the emperor someone sailed there in ancient times?
@slowwalker You have made me want to know more about Buddhism now. There are so many factors behind this religion and it is very fascinating how just find your Center and Being Calm can really help you in Life...................
That is amazing temple and this is a very valuable idea. so I'm a buddhist.
great photography sir.
@slowwalker
Have a great day