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"Preserve well for you now have," says the scripture; each of us possesses the Treasure House. All we have to do is ask the Dragon for permission to enter, ask the Dragon if we may see the jewel and it will be given to us... The gateway to enlightenment does indeed stand open wide for the true mind of the Buddha and the jewel are one and the same...

From Kyojukaimon, Serene Reflection Meditation

Dragon (Sanskrit: Naga; Chinese: Lung-t’ien; Japanese: Ryuten) In Buddhism the dragon represents the Defender of the Faith and is a symbol for the Buddha Nature Itself. It is often shown guarding the Jewel of the Three Treasures. Unlike the Western portrayal of dragons as fierce and evil, Buddhism views dragons as zealous protectors.

  Dragon
     

Lion Dogs (C: Bofo) In Buddhism, lion dogs represent guardians of the Teaching (Dharma) and their “lion’s roar” symbolizes the voice of the Teaching of the Buddhas and Ancestors resounding in all directions. Coming in non-identical pairs, they are used on an altar placed towards the front, one on each side. They are also seen at entrances to Buddhist temples and graveyards.


  Lion Dogs