Places of Worship

• Temple 


  A place where Buddhists come together to practice.
• Bodhisattva: Buddhist worthy of nirvana who postpones it to help others.
• Meditation Hall 


  A quiet space where Buddhists can meditate.
• A Stupa or Pagoda: a mound-like structure that sometimes contains relics of an important Buddhist. The shape symbolises the five elements: earth, water, fire, air and wisdom.
• Shrine: An area with a statue or image of a Buddha or Bodhisattva. It provides a focal point for meditation and devotion.
• Symbol of Light: Used on a shrine to represent the Buddha, wisdom and enlightenment - drives away the darkness of ignorance.
• Symbol of Flowers: Used on a shrine to remind Buddhists that everything is impermanent.
• Symbol of Incense: Used on a shrine to represent purity - reminds Buddhists of the importance of practicing pure thoughts, speech and behaviour.
• Monastery 


  A community of monks or nuns.