Wearing buddhist symbols

[Riku19]

Is it considered disrespectful wearing certain symbols meaningful to buddhism such as the dharmachakra or the triratna (three jewels symbol)?

[Johnny Dangerous]

Is it considered disrespectful wearing certain symbols meaningful to buddhism such as the dharmachakra or the triratna (three jewels symbol)?

Why would it be?

I mean treating as just a fashion accessory is probably not good, but the basic answer is of course not.

[Riku19]

Thanks! Sorry if it sounded like a stupid question, but I wasn't really sure about that. Some religions warn their followers against wearing religious symbols as it may lead to vanity, so I wanted to be sure about that.

[Johnny Dangerous]

Thanks! Sorry if it sounded like a stupid question, but I wasn't really sure about that. Some religions warn their followers against wearing religious symbols as it may lead to vanity, so I wanted to be sure about that.

It kind of depends on one's motivation I think. If you are trying to advertise being Buddhist, or doing it just for fashion etc. it might be a questionable decision. Buddhist jewelry is pretty common among diverse groups of Buddhists though. There are vows that lay people sometimes take to not wear adornments or use makeup, these are specific practices. I do not know what the Vinaya says about jewelry for ordained people.

[PadmaVonSamba]

In any predominantly Buddhist country you can find all sorts of jewelry featuring dharma symbols and imagery.

www.chuan-der.com.tw

In the west, Buddhist symbols can be found on hats, bags, and tee shirts, often sold to raise money for Buddhist projects.

In India, large events for gatherings monks of monks (look up monlam sometimes give participating monks and nuns pins and tote bags featuring Dharma images.

What is generally regarded as disrespectful would be Buddhist images on swimwear, stretch pants, shoes or socks, anything worn below the waist.