Laughing Buddha

I often see this laughing Buddha in temples, restaurants or amulets and I have always wondered why he is so different from the other depictions of Buddha. In fact, it appears that he was in reality an eccentric Chinese Monk called Hotei or Pu-Tai who lived over 1000 years ago. Because of his benevolent nature, jolly smile and protruding stomach he came to be regarded as an incarnation of the bodhisattva who will be Maitreya (the Future Buddha). I have also always been told that rubbing his belly was bringing luck and prosperity.

The image of Hotei is almost always seen carrying a cloth or linen sack (that never empties) which is filled with many precious items, including rice plants (indicating wealth), candy for children, food, etc. He is patron of the weak, poor and children. Religious facts apart, on my side any depiction of this monk never fail to attract my attention.

Turning The Wheel

If you've ever visited a Buddhist temple you might have seen devout turning wheels. On the wheels are depicted or encapsulated prayers, mantras and symbols. According to tradition, spinning the wheel will have the same effect as orally reciting the prayers. Nevertheless, I was more than surprised to discover today that you could actually turn your computer hard drive into such a wheel. If you fancy a computer generated wheel you can simply follow this link. The real wheel above is from the Buddha Tooth Relic temple in Singapore.

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

Down the street from the Hindu temple mentioned yesterday you find the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple which contrary to the former is probably the newest temple in town. It was founded in 2002 and was only open a few months back. It is dedicated to the Maitreya Buddha, which means 'The Compassionate One' also called 'The Future Buddha'. In its short lifespan it has already become one of the great sights not to be missed on any tourist itinerary.

Sri Mariamman

Singapore is dotted with an impressive number of Buddhist monasteries, Hindu temples, Christian churches and Muslim mosques. Sometimes all sitting next to each other. The oldest Hindu temple is the Sri Mariamman founded in 1827. I believe it currently needs a bit of maintenance and renovation or at least a little of paint but it nevertheless remains an interesting feature if you happen to visit it at the right time (which means when something is actually going on and the gods and goddesses are not hidden behind curtains).