The role, importance, and problems of using Buddhist symbols in modern society

Abstract

This academic article aims to study ìthe role, importance, and problems of using Buddhist symbols in modern society.î It was found that symbols are things that are created to represent the meaning of something. When talking about symbols in Buddhism, it will cover things that are created to represent Buddhist meanings, such as Buddha images, Dharmachakra, kneeling deer, Pali language, monks, as well as Buddhist requisites, churches, temples, and Buddhist stupas, etc.

At present, it is found that Buddhist symbols are being used inappropriately, both in terms of their placement in places and in terms of products or goods, such as Buddha heads being decorated on walls along walkways in houses, mocking Buddha images, modifying Buddhist symbols to be used with other concepts in inappropriate ways, and even dressing up like monks. Buddhist symbols are used to advertise alcoholic beverages, to advertise weapons and equipment, to decorate entertainment venues, to advertise shirts, pants, shoes, socks, underwear, tables, chairs, beds, and Buddhist symbols are also used in bathrooms. Therefore, this academic article provides knowledge and understanding about Buddhist symbols to be used correctly and appropriately.