Buddhists from around the state are expected in Charlottesville this weekend, where an unusual traveling exhibit opens – promising peace and medical miracles.
The source -- mysterious bead-like objects that remain when spiritual leaders are cremated.
A video posted online tells the tale of theMaitreya Loving Kindness Tour featuring relics taken from the cremated remains of Buddhist masters. Leena Rose Miller, who organized the event here, says these pearl-like objects promote peace, healing and inspiration.
“Buddhists believe that the relics embody the master’s spiritual qualities of compassion and wisdom and are produced by the master at his death. I stood in front of these beautiful relics, and my life changed.”
The show, which is free of charge, opens Friday, October 24th in Charlottesville’s City Space on the downtown mall with a special ceremony. Miller says the faithful can then line up for a personal blessing.
“The relics are put into a little stupa -- a little vessel – and put on top of your head for a personal blessing , and often if people have a physical malady of some sort, they’ll invite them to be placed on their back or somewhere that there may be pain.”
On Saturday at 11 there will be a special Baby Buddha blessing for kids, and Sunday from 10-12 there will be pet blessings on Fifth Street outside.
The relics – also known as ringsels or sariras -- are considered proof of a spiritual master’s enlightenment and purity. Because they’re rare and sacred, no scientific analysis has been done, but medical experts say the relics may be kidney or gallstones.
