Buddha's Footprints in Buddhism
In early examples of Indian Buddhist art, Sakyamuni isn't depicted in human form, but his presence is implied by symbols like the lotus, a parasol, his throne, or footprints.
These early Buddhist art footprints are found throughout Asia, often in narrative reliefs depicting key episodes of the Buddha's life and thus indicating his personal presence.
These footprints are often carved with various Buddhist symbols. One of the most commonly used symbols in early Buddhism was the Svastikah, signifying good fortune, luck, and well-being.
When displayed flat, the Buddha's footprint is positioned with the toes facing worshippers, as if the Buddha is facing them, and when displayed on walls, their toes point downward.
Footprints at Gokurakuji Temple (Dec. 1989)
Regarding the virtue of representing the Buddha's footprints, there's a quoted text from the "Buddha-Dhyâna-Samâdhi-Sâgara-Sûtra":
"At that time, Shaka (Sâkyamuni) raised his foot... When the Buddha raised his foot, everyone could perceive that, from underneath his feet, the Buddha radiated a light resembling a thousand-spoked wheel. And all those who saw this radiance became strictly upright, and attained supreme enlightenment."
And Shaka said: "Whoever sees the sign on the sole of my foot shall be cleansed of all their faults. He who sees the sign after my death shall be delivered from all the harmful consequences of all his errors."
Buddha's Footprints in Ancient Buddhist Art
For four centuries after the death of Gautama (around 483 BCE), legends and facts about the historical Buddha, his dialogues, and words were only preserved in the memories of monks and disciples. There were no written documents or artistic representations.
Like Hindu Brahmins, the early Buddhists believed religious knowledge was too sacred to be written down, too sacred to be carved in stone or wood.
In those early years, when explicit depictions of the Buddha's image were taboo, the primary artistic vehicle to symbolize the Buddha's presence was to show the Buddha's "footprint".
These footprints in early Buddhist artworks can be found throughout Asia, often in narrative reliefs depicting key episodes of the Buddha's life, thus indicating his personal presence.
These footprints are often carved with various Buddhist symbols. One of the most commonly used symbols in early Buddhism was the Svastikah (oriented left 卍 or right 卐).
Centuries later, in the 20th century, it unfortunately was adopted by Nazi Germany, which used it (the swastika) on its flag and armbands.
