Today is World Buddhist Flag Day, a day to pause and reflect on the core values of compassion, peace, and unity that the Buddhist flag embodies. This vibrant symbol serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of harmony and inclusivity in our own lives and in the world around us.
The Buddhist flag has a rich history. It was first conceived in 1885 in Colombo, Sri Lanka, through a collaborative effort between Colonel Henry Steel Olcott (an American Buddhist and co-founder of the Theosophical Society), and a group of esteemed Buddhist leaders, including Mr. J.R. de Silva and the revered Sri Lankan monk, Ven. Migettuwatte Gunananda Thera.
While Colonel Olcott was a member of the Theosophical Society, it’s important to note that the design of the flag was not an official project of the Society. Instead, it arose from a fruitful dialogue and collaboration with Sri Lankan Buddhist communities. The flag was envisioned as a unifying symbol for Buddhists worldwide, representing the universal and timeless teachings of the Buddha. It was formally adopted as the international Buddhist flag in 1950 at the inaugural meeting of the World Fellowship of Buddhists in Sri Lanka.
Let us celebrate this special day by cultivating kindness in our interactions, embracing mindfulness in our daily lives, and actively working towards a more peaceful and inclusive world for all beings.
“Rely on the teaching, not on the person.”
“Rely on the meaning, not on the words.”
“Rely on the definitive meaning, not on the provisional.”
“Rely on your wisdom mind, not on your ordinary mind.”
- Blue: Represents the blue light emanating from the Buddha’s hair, symbolizing universal compassion, peace, and happiness for all beings.
- Yellow: Represents the golden light radiating from the Buddha’s skin, symbolizing the Middle Way – the path that avoids extremes and leads to balance and liberation.
- Red: Represents the red light emanating from the Buddha’s flesh, symbolizing the blessings that come from practicing the Buddha’s teachings.
- White: Represents the white light emanating from the Buddha’s bones and teeth, symbolizing the purity of the Buddha’s teachings and the liberation from suffering.
- Orange: Represents the orange light emanating from the Buddha’s palms, heels, and lips, symbolizing the power of wisdom and the majestic brilliance of the Dharma.
- Combined Colors (Purple/Magenta): Represents the universal truth of the Buddha’s teachings, encompassing all aspects of his enlightenment.
These colors together symbolize the perfection of Buddhahood and the Dharma, and serve as a visual reminder of the path to enlightenment.
