We have been served different parts of the lotus at some of our more formal dinners here in Feicheng. It is not only delicious, but it is rich in vitamins and minerals.
So much for the nutritional value. The lotus is, quite simply, beautiful, and I was delighted to finally photograph it today. The plant grows in insanely murky water; yet it produces one of the most spectacular blooms on earth. I understand why it carries so much symbolism in the Buddhist faith.
The lotus grows in murky water and mud which reminds us that we are born in a world where there is suffering, which is a vital part of the human experience and makes us stronger and teaches us to resist temptation.
The lotus symbolizes the purifying of the spirit which is born into murkiness.
A closed lotus represents the time before a person finds Buddha or enlightenment.
The lotus in full bloom symbolizes full enlightenment and self-awareness.
The pink lotus flower represents the history of Buddha and the historical legends of the Buddha. The white lotus blossom, which I did not find today, symbolizes purity in the mind and spirit.
The lotus flower in Buddhism represents rebirth as a reincarnation, when a soul leaves this world in its present form to be reborn in another.
The lotus is used in traditional Chinese medicine and is rich in vitamins and minerals.
Ramblings 
Very beautiful photos Mona. Love the vivid colors and angles.
BE ENCOURAGED! BE BLESSED!
Mona, it’s a beautiful variety – so pale, and voluptuous! And it’s always good to be reminded of the symbolism:)
Your lotus blossoms are beautiful.
Thanks for sharing the explanations (and your photos). I love lotus flowers, though it’s hard to articulate exactly why. I personally can’t resist posting photos of them.
They are irresistible, aren’t they?
Indeed!
thanks for sharing such gorgeous photos with us today.
You are quite welcome … and thank you
They are absolutely wonderful :9
Oh thank you so much!
Wow, this is beautiful!. Thanks for telling more about the use and meaning of the flower. Very interesting.
I am always curious. I knew a little about the connection between the lotus and Buddhism but not much. When I got these shots, I needed to find out more.
I also feel the same. Having some photos and knowing something more about it is very good brain training
I always want to know more about the tradition, history, and symbolism.
Beautiful shots of this lovely flower, and lots of interesting info. Thanks for sharing 🙂
Inga, I appreciate this. THANKS
So beautiful, Mona. Thank-you.
Thank you, Cathy.
Beautiful, Mona! I love eating the root, with it’s intricate patterns… Yum!
I had not eaten it before our dinners here. It IS delicious, isn’t it?
Hi Mona.Very beautiful photographs of a beautiful flower.
What an utterly gorgeous post, Mona! I feel enlightened from reading it and gazing at the beautiful pink lotus flowers. Thank you. ~ Lily
Thank you! The flowers are beautiful, I believe.
Those are just beautiful 🙂 Don’t see them often, so thank you for sharing!
Thank you! I just love the flowers … took a while to get close enough to capture them.
Thank you for the gorgeous post! I appreciate you taking time to explain the symbols of lotus.
I am always curious … I remembered that the lotus carried some symbolism, and I just had to find out more. I’m glad that you appreciate it.
A lovely post, and beautiful photos of the lotus!
Thank you …. does “The Retiring Sort” mean that you are retired? If so, congratulations.
Yes it does, and thanks!
Breathtaking, Mona, and you’re right, this is perfect for this week’s travel theme on http://wheresmybackpack.com/2012/07/27/travel-theme-flowers So glad you joined in this week! xxx
I enjoy the travel themes ….. thanks. Since I’m not doing any traveling for a while, I’ll just have to dig through my library for future themes.
Lotus is one of my favorite flowers – simple, pure and still beautiful! You’ve captured the essence of the flower very well. Thank you for stopping by and “liking” one of my recent post on the water village Xitang in China!
Enjoy your stay in China, Mona!
Jean
Thanks … I had a great time working in China. I appreciate your comment that I’ve capture the essence of the flower. That is the highest compliment.
Hi Mona, Love the pictures, so much so that i would like to use one on a wordpress site that i am attempting to build for my local Buddhist group welshbuddhists.org.uk, it is not commercial in any way. If it is ok pls let me know. thanks
Steve, I am honored that you like my lotus flowers. They have watermarks on them so I need to send you an original image without a watermark. Can you give me your email address? I have sent a message to you through your Facebook page if you wish to give me your email address that way if not on this page. Thank you. ~Ramona
Email address deleted. Ramona