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Buddhist Alters
Buddhist altars feature three main components: Buddha statues, two candles, and vases of flowers. The Buddha statues are always placed prominently on an elevated altar table. The two candles represent the teachings or dhamma of Buddhism. Candles light the darkness in the same way the Buddhists believe their religious teachings can illuminate our understanding of the world. The flowers represent the monks or sangha. Many colors and varieties of flowers together in one vase parallel the young men who come from many kinds of families and many places to serve together as monks.
Greensboro’s Cambodian Americans have created altars in their homes and businesses to provide a visible reminder of their beliefs and traditions. Buddha statues, candles, religious carvings, paintings of Buddha’s life, and even portraits of Southeast Asian royalty grace the multi-tiered altars.
Some people decorate their altars with small lights and garlands. Others include trays of fruit, sweets, and drink offerings to the Buddha.
> Learn about the Buddhist Wheel of Life
> Learn about Keeping Buddhist Faith Alive
> Return to Spirituality
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| © © Greensboro Historical Museum |
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"If we didn’t have a temple in America, then us Khmers, wouldn’t have a religion. We wouldn’t have a place to gather for meetings or for worshipping."
