REL2011/Evans Course Module:
Role of the Buddha in Sri Lankan Worship



V. Images of the Buddha


The Samadhi Buddha statue of the Buddha meditating dates
back to the 3rd century CE. 		In the earliest Buddhist art, which is of course Indian, the Buddha was represented only symbolically by an empty seat under a Bo tree, a footprint, an umbrella, or the wheel of the law which he discovered. Or probably it would be more accurate to say that the Buddha was not shown at all, to symbolize the fact that he was 'extinguished' and certain emblems served to indicate the scene portrayed. Where and when his body was first depicted is still disputed.

Buddha images are sacred objects. They are made by special people: their manufacture is the prerogative of sittaru. Another person, an artist, may in these modern times make a Buddha image, but if he has any trace of traditional sentiment left he will refrain from giving it the finishing touch, which consists in putting in the eyes, and leave this to a sittara who will perform the appropriate ceremony. Only then is the image sacred.



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Last revised: August 2, 2000