Materials: Colorful printing, embroidery, weaving, dragon pattern, patchwork

Dimensions: Approximately 100 x 100 cm

Description:

A "Buddha tablecloth" (also known as a Buddhist tablecloth, mandala cloth, or hall tablecloth) is a decorative fabric commonly used on Buddhist altars (Buddha halls or Buddha altars). It is primarily used to cover the surface of the table, serving as a cushion for Buddha statues, ritual objects, or offerings. It not only serves practical functions (such as protecting the tabletop and absorbing incense ash), but also carries profound religious symbolic meaning. In Buddhist tradition, the origins of tablecloths can be traced back to the early ritual practices of Indian Buddhism. Later, through the evolution of Chinese Han Buddhism and Tibetan Tantric Buddhism, it has become a common item in both modern Han and Tibetan Buddhism.

Historical Origins

- **Indian Buddhist Period (from approximately the 5th century BC): Buddhism originated in ancient India. Early temples (such as stupas and viharas built during the reign of Emperor Ashoka) often used silk or cotton cloth to enshrine Buddha statues and ritual objects, which served as the prototype for "mandala cloth." The mandala is a tantric symbol of the structure of the universe. Embroidered with lotus flowers, mandalas, or the Eight Auspicious Symbols, these cloths represent purity and solemnity. These cloths derive from the Vedic tradition of altar cloths (vedi), used to separate sacred spaces and prevent dust from contaminating offerings. According to Buddhist texts such as the Avatamsaka Sutra and the Diamond Sutra, offerings to the Buddha should be covered with "clean objects," and this cloth evolved from this, symbolizing the state of "freedom from defilement" (freedom from defilement).

- **Introduction to China and the Evolution of Han Buddhism (Han and Tang Dynasties, approximately 1st to 10th centuries AD): With the eastward spread of Buddhism, tablecloths became integrated into Chinese Taoist and Confucian ritual culture. During the Tang Dynasty (618-907), the silk industry flourished, and Buddhist temples often used yellow or red silk cloth as tablecloths, embroidered with Buddhist images or scriptures (such as the Heart Sutra). Starting in the Song Dynasty (960-1279), with the rise of home Buddhist shrines, tablecloths became commonplace in homes, shifting from silk to cotton and linen, making them more affordable. During the Ming and Qing Dynasties (1368-1912), influenced by the imperial court, tablecloth designs became more elaborate, often featuring gold trimmings or embroidered lotus flowers, symbolizing the eternal presence of the Dharma. Historical documents such as the Tripitaka record the need for "clean cloths" for Buddhist altars, which became the religious basis for tablecloths.

- **Influence of Tibetan Buddhism (from the 7th century)**: In Tibet, tablecloths are called "chog tsher" (Tibetan: ཆོག་མཚོན་), originating from traditional altar cloths of the Bon religion and later incorporated into Tantric Buddhism. These fabrics are mostly hand-woven and dyed, featuring designs such as mandalas, vajra, or guardian deities, and are used to create a sacred atmosphere during practice. Modern Buddhist tablecloths exported from Nepal and Tibet are often made of thick cotton, approximately 80-100cm square. They originate from the Tantric rituals introduced by Guru Padmasambhava in the 8th century.

Overall, the origin of Buddhist tablecloths is not a single event, but rather evolved from the practical need for altar cloths in India to a religious object symbolizing the "purity and solemnity of the Pure Land." They reflect the Buddhist principle of "offering to the Three Jewels" (Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha), emphasizing a clean and beautiful environment to foster reverence in practitioners.

When to Use Buddhist tablecloths

The use of Buddhist tablecloths is primarily associated with Buddhist rituals and daily offerings, emphasizing "purity of time and reverence of mind." The following are common occasions:

- **Daily Offering**: Regular use in the Buddhist altar at home or in a monastery. They are placed during morning and evening prayers or during incense burning, serving as a base for Buddha statues and symbolizing daily "purification of the mind." Suitable for auspicious days such as the new moon, full moon, or the first and fifteenth day of the lunar month.

- **Prayers and Celebrations**: Such as Buddha's Birthday (the eighth day of the fourth lunar month), Enlightenment Day (the eighth day of the twelfth lunar month), Nirvana Day (the fifteenth day of the second lunar month), or the Ullambana Festival (the fifteenth day of the seventh lunar month). During large-scale rituals, tablecloths should be replaced with new ones and paired with flower and fruit offerings to create a festive atmosphere.

- **Special Ceremonies**: Used during memorial services, Dharma transmissions and empowerments, or during home consecrations (the enthronement of a Buddha statue). In Tibetan Buddhism, tablecloths are essential during tantric practices (such as mandala visualization) to aid concentration. Avoid using them during funerals or in filthy settings to avoid contamination.

- **Feng Shui and Home Furnishings**: In Chinese culture, Buddhist tablecloths are also used to adjust home feng shui. For example, placing them in the southeast corner of the living room prays for peace. Avoid using them in bedrooms or kitchens to avoid contamination with worldly odors.

Instructions

Using a Buddhist tablecloth requires proper etiquette. The steps are as follows, aiming to demonstrate piety and cleanliness:

1. **Preparation and Cleaning**:

- Choose a material: silk (high-end, symbolizing luxury), cotton and linen (everyday use, absorbent and non-slip), or synthetic fibers (durable). Colors should primarily be red (festive), yellow (Buddhist colors), and white (pure). Patterns should include lotus flowers, swastikas, or Buddhist scriptures; avoid animal prints.

- Cleaning: Wash gently with warm water (avoid bleach) before use. After drying, sprinkle with clean water (add a little salt or rice) to clean. Tibetan fabrics can be purified with incense.

2. **Setting Up**:

- Choose a location: Place the Buddhist tablecloth on a clean, elevated surface (higher than your head), facing east or north. The tablecloth should be slightly larger than the surface (5-10 cm longer), with the edges draped for optimal aesthetic appeal.

- Laying Out: Hold the cloth at each corner with both hands and gently spread it flat from behind (facing the Buddha statue), aligning the edges. Place a Buddha statue or ritual implements (such as an incense burner, candles, or a water vase) in the center, and surround it with the seven offerings (flowers, lamps, incense, etc.).

- Taboos: Avoid wrinkling or tilting the tablecloth. Silently chant "Namo Amitabha" three times when laying it out to show respect. Do not step on or use the tablecloth for secular purposes (such as dining tables).

3. **Maintenance and Replacement**:

- Daily: Gently wipe dust after burning incense to keep it clean.

- Replacement: Replace the tablecloth every 3-6 months (or when soiled). Old tablecloths can be donated to a temple or burned (symbolizing returning to the earth).

- Feng Shui Details: Place a red cloth under the tablecloth to enhance qi, but avoid using mirrors to prevent reflections from dispersing qi.

4. Buddhist Style Preferences. You can also consider the size of your own Buddha altar that is convenient for use.

| Chinese Buddhism

**Material Preferred** | Silk, cotton, lightweight

**Pattern** | Lotus, sutra

**Size** | 60-90cm square

**Symbol** | Pure Land Majesty

| Tibetan Buddhism

**Material Preferred** | Thick cotton, handwoven, durable

**Pattern** | Mandala, vajra

**Size** | 80-120cm. Suitable for ritual implements

**Symbol** I: Cosmic structure, aids in meditation

Using a tablecloth is more than just a formality; it is a spiritual practice, helping believers cultivate mindfulness amidst their busy lives. If you are setting up a new home Buddha altar, it is recommended to consult with a temple monk to ensure appropriateness. Through these traditions, we can experience the fusion of Buddhist wisdom and aesthetics.

PS: Please keep the tablecloth as clean as possible. If damaged, please replace it immediately. Old damaged tablecloths can be cremated. If you need to discard them, please wrap them in a separate garbage bag before disposal.