Recently, there has been an upward trend in the purchase of Buddha statues. Regardless of religion, age, or location—there is something ultimately calming and comforting in this serene figure that sits with a quiet smile often present on his face. Many people use these as a way to bring about better energy to their house or to create a space to reflect and meditate. Buddha now comes in many forms—not only statues but incense and candle holders, tapestries, jewelry, and more. However, this Buddhist symbol carries many hidden meanings and unspoken rules, so it’s good to research before you make your first Buddha purchase.

Buddha Statue Positions

Different Buddha statues carry different meanings, so you might want to consider this first before you purchase. Some of the most common styles seen in these statues are:

• Sitting Buddha with hands in lap
• Sitting Buddha with one hand raised
• Sitting Buddha with one hand towards the ground
• Reclining Buddha

Each of these positions mean something different. When Buddha has his hands in his lap, this

is often seen as a Meditation Buddha, and it’s a perfect addition for anyone looking for a bit of calm and serenity in their lives. When Buddha has one hand raised, this can be seen as giving protection or overcoming fear. It’s good to help bring courage into your life. The Earth Touching Buddha typically has one hand pointed towards the ground, acknowledging our own need for grounding. Finally, the reclining Buddha is often depicted as the end of life and the ultimate journey towards Nirvana. By knowing the significance of each position, you can choose a Buddha that reflects your own needs.

The Dos and Don’ts of Buddha

When purchasing a statute, keep in mind that these Buddhist statues do come with a few rules of etiquette. For example, your Buddha should be placed in a nice light so that it is seen and appreciated by others. Buddha statues should not go into bedrooms, bathrooms, or kitchens—but do consider your garden, as this is a great place for statues. One very important rule is to never let Buddha touch the ground; in fact, it is recommended that Buddha is placed at least 2.5 feet off the floor. Finally, placement—it is good to have your Buddha facing your house to bring good luck to the house and facing East towards sunrise if possible. In practicing this etiquette, you will become more open and aware of the cultures around you and know that you are giving your statue the respect that it deserves.