Now, where shall we get this symbol of the Tathāgata from? Shall we get an image or a picture to represent Him, and pay it reverence? We may. An image is a precious thing, and so is a picture; but we cannot always be worshipping them. Is there any symbol that we can always reverence, and if so, where? Yes, gentlemen, there is:—there is the Sacred Name to which we ascribe all honour. That is for us the true "doll," the real image of our true worship.
9. Many people, who do not understand our beliefs, say that Buddhism is a despicable faith, because it recognizes the use of religious images, pictures, and symbols. That is but a shallow criticism, is it not? And yet there are some people who are afraid of this shallow criticism, and who try to deny the teachings of their faith, or to make excuses for it. But it is a great mistake to do so. It cannot be denied that Buddhism is what shallow critics would call "idolatrous." That is just what it is, and it is one of the most excellent features of our
