Few months ago, I got stuck with a friend who wanted to shop at a leading furniture store in Dubai (no, it wasn't Ikea!). She was hunting for a set of Olive-Picks, which she had spotted earlier in the catalogue.
Now, if you are familiar with the product, you truly are fancy!
I wasn't, at the time - I don't think I had heard of such a thing. However, my mind is capable of breaking the words and trying to figure what the purpose of the product may be. In some ways, it's a toothpick-like fork you will never throw out. It other ways, it will just make your drink look fancy...
Pointless?
But, it sells...
What probably sells, even more, is the $272.00 Buddha next to it. Buddha with a price-tag!
The first representations of Gautama Buddha were created almost 5 centuries after his passing... The reason behind this, as many believe, is because Buddha did not want his disciples to worship an image of himself - rather, use his teachings as a pathway to nirvana.
Of course, the first few images and statues were probably painted/carved for the simple joy of creating. Or, perhaps, just to inspire Buddhist Monks during their meditation.
Today, however, it's all very different.
Browsing through the current issue of Inside Out, I realized, how the image of Buddha has become nothing more than just a crucial component of an Interior Designer's must-have list!
Quite simply - Buddha, is no longer the memory of a spiritual leader who inspired many – but, merely a household commodity most interior designers like to see in living rooms, in order to add a zen-like appeal to the setting!
Statue of Buddha = $272.00
Maroon Meditation Cloak = $14.20
Pure Sandal-Wood Incense = $12.95
Recreating a mini-ZenGarden in your own back yard = $1450.00
Twinnings Green Tea (in 3 different flavours) = $10.45
Attaining Nirvana = Priceless
Sigh!
Posts
3 comments:
don't forget his imposing presence at a certain bar...
Having a GB statue at your home, represents one's own image as serene, meditative and harmonious to people visiting. It's all for someone else's perception of who you are, which I beleive is nothing close to buddha's message.
Spirtuality not only for sale but also on display for chracter certification.
Unfortunately this statue seems to be used mainly to create ambiance more than anything. At least from what I've seen.
Nice blog you have here. And what a great name! ;)
Post a Comment