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Expert: - 8/6/2011


Question
Is it considered disrespectful to get a Mahayana Bodhisattva (specifically Manjusri) tattooed on your body if you are a Theravada Buddhist? How does Buddhism view tattoos in general?

On another unrelated note, do Buddhists believe that insects can feel pain?

Answer
Hi Emily,

Tattooing has nothing to do with the teachings of the Buddha.  Certain communities have as affinity for tattoos, especially the Thais.  If one is a Theravada Buddhist I don't think one would like to have the tattoo that you mentioned.

<<  On another unrelated note, do Buddhists believe that insects can feel pain? >>
It would be better to consult a biologist on this matter.  Then we don't have to depend on "belief".

Regards,

Justin Choo

Buddhists

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Justin Choo

Expertise

When in doubt seek it out. All your questions will be answered, and you may not have to agree with the answers. Such is the beauty of Buddhism. You are free to decide. I follow the Theravada tradition, and have been studying Buddhism for more than 40 years. Please view my profile for more details. I have answered more than 1500 questions since joining this category. You may like to give me the honor to answer your question.

Experience

I was brought up in the 50's as a Buddhist. For the past 40 years I have read numerous books on Buddhism and listened to numerous talks on Buddhism by well-respected and learned monks and lay teachers. I conduct Buddhist classes for parents of Sunday School children in a Theravada Buddhist Temple. My teacher was the late Chief Reverend, The Ven. K Sri Dhammananda of The Brickfields Buddhist Mahavihara, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. You can view the relevent website in memory of my revered late teacher @ http://www.ksridhammananda.com

Organizations
I am a life member of the Buddhist Missionary Society Malaysia.

Publications
YOU ARE INVITED TO VISIT MY BLOG @ http://lifeislikethat999.blogspot.com/ Published a book called "The Rainbow And The Treasure". It is a compilation of extracts from various sources to introduce Buddhism to beginners. (Currently out of print)

Education/Credentials
Bachelor of Commerce And Administration, Victoria University Of Wellington, NZ.(1974)

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