You enter Villa Bodhi Bali through a long, narrow driveway flanked by the high stone walls of neighboring family compounds. Distractions of the outside world dissolve in the protection of this passageway. Along the walls are spaced eight stone tiles hand-carved with sacred Buddhist symbols. These are the first of many blessings that travel to Villa Bodhi Bali will bestow.
What do these eight symbols signify? They are the Ashtamangala, auspicious gifts said to have been brought by heavenly deities to the Buddha upon his enlightenment. These symbols represent his teachings and devout wishes for humanity.
The Eight Blessings are:
Eight Blessings: Fishes
Treasure vase: Health, wisdom, and prosperity.
Conch shell: Awakening to the welfare of all beings.
Endless knot: Interdependence of all life.
Parasol: Protection from harm and illness.
Fishes: Freedom, fearlessness, fertility, the flow of life.
Lotus: Pure heart and mind rising above attachment to desires.
Wheel: Overcoming obstacles on the path to spiritual realization.
Victory banner: Triumph of enlightenment.
Eight Blessings: Endless Knot
During your stay, stroll down the path and stop at each one to reflect on its message. Each symbol was carved in the traditional way with chisel and hammer and many hours of intention carefully engraved into its contours and corners. These blessings remind us that all life is precious; their sentiments give us hope, reassurance and encouragement. Perhaps one will have a special meaning for you.
Villa Bodhi Bali takes its name from the sacred Bodhi tree under which Siddhartha Gautama realized his awakening as the Buddha. May these eight blessings bring you the serenity of Buddha’s enlightenment on your next visit.