12 zodiac signs and the guardian deity of the zodiac in Buddhism
I. Introduction
In Chinese culture, the Chinese zodiac, or the zodiac of the 12 earthly branches, is a unique cultural phenomenon that represents people’s observation of the natural world and the division of timeTặng tiền nhiệm vụ mỗi ngày. The related patron saint of Buddhism reflects the integration of Buddhist culture and Chinese culture. This article will explore the deep connection between these zodiac signs and Buddhism.
2. Overview of the Zodiac and Buddhism
The Chinese zodiac signs are, in order, the Rat, the Ox, the Tiger, the Rabbit, the Dragon, the Snake, the Horse, the Sheep, the Monkey, the Rooster, the Dog, and the Pig. These zodiac signs not only occupy an important place in Chinese culture, but are also closely linked to many areas of Buddhism. After Buddhism was introduced to China as a foreign culture, it merged with the local culture to form a unique belief system, including the combination of the zodiac and the guardian deity.
3. The Buddhist patron saint of the zodiac
Each zodiac sign has its corresponding Buddhist patron deity, also known as the Buddha-Body Bodhisattva or Natal Buddha. Here’s a brief introduction to these zodiac signs and their patron saints:
1. Those born in the Year of the Rat – the patron saint is Ajin Buddha;
2. Those born in the Year of the Ox – the guardian deity is the Buddha of Athani Tan;
3. Those born in the Year of the Tiger – the guardian deity is the Bodhisattva;
4. Those born in the Year of the Rabbit – the guardian deity is Manjushri;
5. Those born in the Year of the Dragon – the guardian deity is Longji Bodhisattva;
6. Those born in the Year of the Snake – the guardian deity is Pu’an Bodhisattva;
7. Those born in the Year of the Horse – the guardian deity is the Bodhisattva of the general trend;
8. Those born in the Year of the Goat – the guardian spirit is the great day;
9. Those born in the Year of the Monkey – the patron saint is Mashehedra;
10. Those born in the Year of the Rooster – the guardian deity is the King of Fudo;
11. Those born in the Year of the Dog – the guardian deity is the protector of the Dharma of Jinzha;
12. Those born in the Year of the Pig – the guardian deity is the image of the Bodhisattva such as the statue of the Great Sage of the Sun. Each bodhisattva has different characteristics and functions, and guards the good fortune and health of all beings in each zodiac sign. When everyone learns of their patron saint, they often set up a shrine in their home to pray for good fortune. In Chinese Buddhism, the worship of the natal Buddha reflects people’s sense of religious identity with the protective power of Buddhism and the zodiac. Everyone who respects and learns from the wisdom and teachings of these patron saints will be blessed and guided. Therefore, the combination of the zodiac sign and the patron saint of Buddhism embodies people’s pursuit and reverence for fate and faith. 4. ConclusionIn Chinese culture, the zodiac has far-reaching significance as a representative of time division and cultural symbolism. The integration with Buddhist culture has injected new connotations and depths into it. By understanding and respecting the guardian saint of the zodiac, people can not only feel the charm of traditional culture, but also find spiritual sustenance and guidance in faith. Hopefully, this article will help readers better understand the relationship between the zodiac sign and Buddhism, and find the cultural values and meanings associated with it in their daily lives.
