For Vietnamese people, Buddhism has a significant influence on the majority. Many people, even if they do not follow any religion, have a spiritual affinity towards Buddhism, worship Buddha, and recite Buddha’s name. Many people wear jewelry related to Buddhism, some even have tattoos of Buddha or use Buddha-related items.
Does worshiping Buddha images bring good luck?
Buddhism stands out for its concept of enlightenment and the law of karma and reincarnation. According to tradition, during his lifetime, the Buddha instructed his disciples not to draw or sculpt his image because he did not desire to be worshipped or idolized by everyone.
Later on, images and sculptures of the Buddha began to circulate. The teachings of Buddhism are simple: enlightenment and the law of karma, so wearing jewelry, getting tattoos, or hanging pictures is merely a ritual and does not bring about any significant result. It serves as a reminder for individuals and also sends a message about oneself to others. However, it does not help individuals cultivate virtues as mere clothing does not make one a monk.
Wearing jewelry with Buddha images, hanging or carrying pictures does not have any real significance if one’s mind has not truly comprehended the teachings of Buddha. Good fortune only comes when individuals truly learn and practice the words of the Buddha.
In the Buddhist perspective, doing these things sometimes appears arrogant, a way of showing off or boasting about one’s spiritual practice.
Items of jewelry depicting Buddha, Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, etc., are not meant for “warding off evil spirits” or seeking luck and protection. It is not appropriate to regard these spiritual items as magical charms, as it goes against the spirit of Buddhism. The Buddha taught, “Rely on yourself, not on others. Walk with the torch of the Dharma, not with non-Dharma.”
The best feng shui is within oneself
In terms of feng shui, many feng shui masters believe that the best feng shui is within each individual. A good heart, wisdom, and rational behavior can resolve any bad situation, attract good luck, and increase fortune.
Therefore, those who have faith in Buddhism make efforts to improve themselves, gradually eliminating self-attachment, and perfecting themselves to achieve enlightenment and liberation, thus creating good feng shui.
Jewelry, paintings with Buddha images, or symbols related to Buddhism serve as reminders for individuals and can help calm the mind and restrain oneself from harmful actions, thereby avoiding mistakes. They have a certain effect but are not the decisive factor if one’s mind has not truly practiced.
Do not regard jewelry and items with Buddha images or spiritual quotes and symbols related to Buddhism as a means to create good luck and blessings. Whether or not to wear jewelry with Buddha images or spiritual images is a personal preference. However, it is important to differentiate this from superstitious and deviant practices, believing that jewelry with spiritual images is a magical charm. No jewelry can help us achieve success unless we personally cultivate a statue of the Buddha in our minds and always remember the teachings of the Buddha. If Buddha is in our hearts, external rituals and forms are no longer necessary.
This information is for reference and contemplation purposes.
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