Shakyamuni Buddha is the founder of the Buddhist religion. To find the causes of suffering and the means to overcome it, being a crown prince of his Shakya kingdom, he left his luxurious life. After about six years of study, self-deprivation, and deep meditation he finally realized his goal and became an enlightened one (a Buddha). It is believed he has walked to a deer park in Sarnath (Benares) on the outskirts of Varanasi in India. There he gave his first sermon, an event which is called the turning of the wheel of Buddhist law (Dharmacakra). The wheel as a metaphor for Buddha’s teaching will become a prevalent symbol in Buddhist art.
How does Thangka benefit us?
It goes without saying that every detail of a painting has a symbolic meaning. Regardless of your religious affiliation, a thangka can help you on your path to enlightenment, whether you practice Buddhism or have other religious convictions. Thangkas are paintings that depict deities with various iconographic elements and symbolism that encourage meditation on the teachings of the god they depict. Any thangka is intended to aid in the removal of the film of ignorance, which is a significant barrier to the road to enlightenment. The Thangka is revered as a holy item. They promote positivity, spread Buddhism's teachings, bring about peace, harmony, and oneness, and dispel any negative energy that may be there.
