Lotus and Buddhism.?

Can anyone tell me why the lotus plant is associated with buddhism?

Lotus and Buddhism.?
The lotus is one of the Eight Auspicious Symbols and one of the most poignant representations of Buddhist teaching.


The roots of a lotus are in the mud, the stem grows up through the water, and the heavily scented flower lies pristinely above the water, basking in the sunlight. This pattern of growth signifies the progress of the soul from the primeval mud of materialism, through the waters of experience, and into the bright sunshine of enlightenment.
Reply:I remember being told in Thailand that the Lotus reveals itself slowly like Buddhism does (the lotus closes up tight then opens up layer by layer). Also that the Lotus has many 'hidden' levels and layers like Buddhism.
Reply:Lotus Signify a person who is pure of heart.





Lotus is born from mud and yet not polluted by mud. A noble person who is pure of heart is like a lotus, born and raised in a polluted world and yet not polluted by it.
Reply:I have just read this book, The Lotus Born - the life story of Padmasambhava.


Padmasambhava is the 2nd buddha, and he was born out of a lotus.


Lotus is also a symbol of purity.


I think thats the association.

flowers and gifts