Knotty Notions

Kyoto Talk 006: Buddhism and Knots

Notes: The Pan Chang knot (also known as the Endless knot or the Mystic knot) is one of the eight buddhist treasures. It represents the endless cycle of life, the infinite wisdom of Buddha, the duality (yin and yang) of existence, and is also a symbol of balance and harmony.

Additionally, from older traditions, knots are thought to be where gods dwell and as a result bring good luck. It is for this reason that monks would wear knots and knots are hung in temples.

shutara: “flower knots”. knots are where the gods dwell, and knots hung in a room will drive away evil spirits and invite good fortune. Shutara were hung on a monk’s shoulders over the formal surplice to ensure that the words of the sutras would not be dispersed.

Text: The endless knot is one of the eight buddhist treasures.

The gods are said to dwell in knots.

the endless knot, one of the 8 Buddhist treasures

Annotation: The Encyclopedia of Tibetan Symbols and Motifs

Comments

I had no idea that knots are

I had no idea that knots are so important on Buddhists, that explains a lot of things, they have interesting and strong significations. I wonder what kind of knots do monks use at church of Shambhala which is the only Buddhist church in my area.
heyes

Welll!!!!.....this is a

Welll!!!!.....this is a wonderful post and i am impressed with it.....i am researching on buddhism and this is going to be a key pointer.... ThANKS
Emmi

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