Sunday, May 17, 2009

Happy Vesak Day

Last Saturday was Vesak Day, a Buddhist holiday celebrating the life, enlightenment and passing of Buddha. We checked it out at a couple local photogenic temples. Above, lotus flowers (generally shown with, or under Buddha), which you can buy, then offer. Below are some of Buddha's life episodes, including avoiding vices (I think) and conquering demons.Below are representations of Thai Buddha, who, with his pointy hair coexists happily with both chubby and skinny Buddha representations.We were shown how to offer a free piece of sandalwood. I tried to hide my skepticism, do you think I succeeded?