How the Digital Revolution is Shaping the Practice of Buddhism Today

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Buddhism, one of the world’s oldest spiritual traditions, emphasizes mindfulness, compassion, and the pursuit of enlightenment. As technology rapidly transforms human societies, it is essential to explore how these advancements intersect with Buddhist principles. This article delves into the relationship between Buddhism and technology, examining both the benefits and challenges that arise from their convergence. Historical Context Historically, Buddhism has shown a remarkable ability to adapt to various cultural and technological changes. From the oral transmission of teachings to the written scriptures on palm leaves and, later, printed books, Buddhism has continuously embraced new methods to disseminate its wisdom. Today, the digital age presents a new frontier for the spread and practice of Buddhism. Technology Enhancing Buddhist Practice Digital Dharma The internet has become a powerful tool for spreading Buddhist teachings globally. Websites, blogs, online courses, and social med...
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History of the Buddha statue



During the Lord Buddha's lifetime, at the strong request of Ananda Thera, a Bodhi tree was planted and an opportunity was provided to worship in his absence. With the Buddha's passing away, his relics were enshrined and the stupa was built.


It was during the reign of King Kanishka of the Kushan dynasty in the first century AD. And also Mahayana Buddhism began to be nourished by receiving the Greek language. As a result, the art of idolatry evolved under different traditions. Therefore, these traditions are divided into four main parts.


Classification by tradition


The Gandhara tradition


The Mathura tradition


Amaravati tradition 


The Gupta Tradition 


Kandy tradition 


The Gandhara tradition


Gandhara traditional idols were created by mixing Greek and Gandhara traditions. Buddha statues were created to reflect the spiritual qualities of Lord Buddha, such as kindness and mercy, using the shape of the god statues of Apollo, the Greek god at that time. Some of the special features found in this tradition are:


Having a narrow forehead 

 
Thin lips 


Arms close to the body Position of weak eyes 


Having curly hair 


Full biceps 


The Gandhara tradition was popularized in the form of the dharma chakra and the vitarka mudra.


Examples:- Buddha statues in Peshawar city, Begrum in Afghanistan, Katuge in Lahore, Katuge in Karachi are examples.


The Mathura tradition 


The designs of this tradition are based on the images of the Yaksha and Naga tribes in India. This also started during the period when the Gandhara tradition started. At that time, the creation of Buddha statues also took place due to the era in which yaksha and naga statues were being built. However, these Buddha statues have been created with great devotion. Buddha statues are designed with a strong straight body. Some of the special features found in this tradition are:


Widening of the eyes


Wide lips 


Arms away from the body 


The idols, which are shown in full two-legged form, can be said to be Buddha statues inspired by the Mathura tradition. 


Example:- Samadhi Buddha Statue Anuradhapura


Amaravati tradition 


A combination of Gandharva and Mathura traditions helped in the creation of this tradition. A tradition called Amaravati has been created by making up for the shortcomings of the above traditions. This tradition was created under the patronage of Andhra Emperor. Some of the special features found in this tradition are:


Fascination


Naturalness is given priority


Must be very pleasant 


The spiritual qualities are presented in a creative way


The tradition of creating in shapes like these is special in the construction of statues in Sri Lanka. 


Examples:- Aukana, Raswehera, Maligavila, Pabalu Viharaya Polonnaruwa, etc. idols.


The Gupta Tradition


By the end of 3 statue traditions, the Gupta era had begun. After that statues were built according to Gupta tradition. That is, the Gupta tradition was born as a combination of Gandhara, Mathura and Amaravati traditions. It is known as the highest stage of these art traditions in India. These creations are very graceful, show thirty-two masculinity characteristics and are finished in a very pleasing manner.


Examples:- Sarnath Buddha statue India, Pankuliya Buddha statue


Kandy Tradition


During the Kandy period, some special features of the Buddha statue in Sri Lanka could be seen. Namely, 


Using yellow, and black colors


Applying a series of gathers behind the head Making idols out of bricks and clay Picking the Buddha statue with eyes open 


Applying designs to the folds of the cheevara etc.

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