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Buddha Statue - Seated Antique Laos Style Bronze Wednesday Evening Buddha - 33cm/13"
Measurements - H33cm/13"
An antique Laos style seated Wednesday evening Buddha on a simple pedestal.
In the intricate world of Buddhist iconography and folklore, many of the Buddha's life stories and images symbolize profound lessons and spiritual truths. Among the most unique and fascinating depictions in Buddhism is the Wednesday Evening Buddha, known as Phra Lae Lei, often associated with an unusual and poignant episode involving a monkey and an elephant offering gifts to the Buddha.
This image of the Buddha receiving gifts from these two animals, revered in the Buddhist tradition, carries deep symbolism and lessons about generosity, humility, and the interconnectedness of all beings.
The Wednesday Evening Buddha (Phra Lae Lei), within the context of Buddhism, refers to a special representation of the Buddha that symbolizes the Buddha’s peaceful and serene nature as he nears the end of his earthly life. This image is traditionally seen as an important part of Buddhist devotional practices and is associated with the final teachings of the Buddha before his Parinirvana (the final passing into Nirvana).
One of the unique features of the Wednesday Evening Buddha in Buddhism is the story of a monkey and an elephant offering gifts to the Buddha. This story is often depicted in temple art and imagery associated with this particular form of the Buddha. While there are many variations of this story, the basic elements remain consistent: a monkey and an elephant, as can be seen here, each present a gift to the Buddha as a mark of reverence and gratitude.
In the Jataka tales, which recount the previous lives of the Buddha, animals and deities often play important roles in illustrating moral lessons. The story involving the monkey and the elephant highlights several important themes in Buddhist practice, especially generosity, humility, and the value of sincere offerings, regardless of the size or the nature of the offering.
This Laos style Buddha comes from a nation where Buddhism is more than just a religion; it is a way of life that shapes the country's identity and cultural fabric. Lao people find solace, wisdom, and a sense of purpose in the teachings of the Buddha. The practice of Theravada Buddhism in Laos, with its emphasis on meditation, mindfulness, and ethical conduct, serves as a guiding light for spiritual seekers and a source of unity and serenity in this beautiful Southeast Asian nation.
The large lotus flower ushnisha protuberance on top of his head, typical of Laos art, symbolizes his high level of spiritual development. The Buddha has a peaceful countenance with downcast introspective eyes and a firm brow. His earlobes are stretched long from a youth spent as a prince wearing heavy gold earrings.
The Wednesday Evening Buddha, or Phra Lae Lei, with its unique story of the Buddha receiving offerings from a monkey and an elephant, presents us with profound lessons about generosity, humility, and interconnectedness. This story teaches that spiritual offerings are not defined by material wealth or outward appearances but by the intention behind them.
Whether we are rich or poor, strong or humble, all beings can contribute to the world in meaningful ways, and all actions motivated by a pure heart are valuable in the eyes of the Buddha.
The message of the Wednesday Evening Buddha is one of acceptance, compassion, and mindfulness—qualities that can lead us toward spiritual liberation. By reflecting on these teachings, we are encouraged to cultivate sincere generosity, to embrace our shared humanity, and to practice compassion for all living beings, regardless of their form or status.
As you meditate on the peaceful image of the Buddha receiving gifts from the monkey and the elephant, consider how you, too, can offer kindness, compassion, and generosity in your own life, enriching the world around you and growing closer to the path of enlightenment.
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