Buddhist Gifts Offer Peace And Serenity
Q. My sister and her fiance are practicing Buddhists and I don’t know what to give them for wedding gifts. I don’t really understand their beliefs and don’t want to offend them. However I want to honor them with a special gift. Do You have any ideas? Katie
A. Hello Katie
First I would like to give you a little background on Buddhism Beliefs. Buddhist believe the secret to a content and happy life is perfect balance - the point wherein one becomes awakened or enlightened to the truths of the universe and the interconnectedness of the world.
Buddhist believe to be content in life one must pursue what is known as the Middle Way-the perfect balance between poverty and luxury and between negative and positive poles. It signifies not being perturbed or affected by extreme anger or extreme joy. It also means looking at everything from all sides and not being biased when making judgments.
The Middle Way, in a sense, is also taught as being detached from worldly views and ways, such as money, material things, negative thoughts, excess and power. It does not, however, mean being detached from humanity. If anything else, Buddhism teaches everyone to love one another, the universe and nature, and to live compassionate and benevolent lives.
Buddhist Jewelry and Awakening
Because of the word “detachment” being used often in Buddhist teachings, some people might think that there is a conflict between The Middle Way and the wearing of spiritual jewelry. One might ask himself: “How can I be following The Buddha by wearing something with material value?”
Buddhist jewelry, it must be understood, should not be seen as just valuable jewelry. One should see Buddhist jewelry as staunch reminders of the teachings and ideals of Buddhism and The Middle Way. .
These special pieces of jewelry should be worn to keep the teachings of harmony, balance, enlightenment and detachment close to one’s heart and soul. For instance this, a bride and groom can wear special buddhist bracelets
Female Ra Ma Da Sa Bracelet Male Ra Ma Da Sa Bracelet
During the ceremony while the couple exchange their vows they can place the bracelets on each others wrist. The bracelet should be worn on the left wrist as it’s closest to the heart.
Another unique wedding gift idea would be a Buddhist Door Guards. The Fish Door Guardian is offered with a symbolic fish for love and fertility. The bridal couple hang this on the inside door of their bedroom to welcome love and nurturing in your marriage.
The Prosperity Doorbell welcomes new opportunities. Hang on the inside of your front door knob and ring in harmony all year long in your marriage.
If you are on a tight budget you can give a Buddhist Empowerment Candle. This candle will add a fresh scent and lighting to the wedding reception at night. It will not only create harmony and balance on the wedding day, it will open pathways to give and receive love. What a great way to have everyone in sync on your special day!
For more great Buddhist Gift ideas please visit CaroleShashona.com. By purchasing handmade products from Carole’s site you will be supporting wonderful local American artisans and local charities. A portion of the proceeds from each sale are also donated to: Doctors Without Borders, Asian Pacific Women’s Center and World Wildlife Fund: Adopt a Dolphin.
