Places of Worship

• Temple 


  A place where Buddhists come together to practice.
• Buddha Rupa: A statue of the Buddha, often sitting cross-legged in a meditation pose.
• Meditation Hall 


  A quiet space where Buddhists can meditate.
• A Study Hall 


  A space for meetings and lectures.
• 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.
• Pagoda: a tiered tower (usually with an odd number of levels) that sometimes contains relics of an important Buddhist. The shape symbolises the five elements: earth, water, fire, air and wisdom.
• 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.
• Vihara 


  Buddhist monastery.
• Gompa 


  A hall or building where Tibetan Buddhists meditate.