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The Bearers of Tradition
Countless masters have preserved the Historical Buddha's teachings (dharma) by instructing pupils on Buddhist doctrines and practices. Teachers therefore are central to all Buddhist traditions. Using ritual objects that reinforce the dharma, teachers not only explain Buddhist concepts to students, but they also link modern devotees with all who have practiced the dharma over the centuries. Buddhist schools honor different teachers and founders, although some are revered in multiple traditions.
Alongside human teachers are a host of divine and enlightened beings who preserve and defend the dharma. Their images often appear outside Buddhist sites. Buddhists relate to these beings as fellow devotees and worship them for worldly benefits, such as health and wealth. |