While aesthetics are tempting, the statue should primarily serve as a tool for "developing our practice".
“The book lacks sustained discussion of what exactly makes certain acts of commodification problematic... [and] relies on vague declarations such as “a line is often crossed.” Reading Religion · 4 years ago Buying Buddha, Selling Rumi - Reading Religion
Some practitioners emphasize finding "ethically sourced" items that support local communities, such as those from buddha-buddha.com, where items are reportedly blessed and support Tibetan communities. Community Perspectives
Arjana critiques modern mysticism for seeking instant gratification for world problems rather than addressing their root causes. Critical Reception:
The book links modern spiritual marketing to colonial-era "Orientalism," where Westerners define and consume Eastern cultures for their own gratification.
Reviewers praise it as "well researched," "scholarly," and a "pleasure to read". It is highly recommended for academic discussions on religion and media.
The phrase "buy buddha" typically refers to two distinct areas: the academic study of religious commodification in the book Buying Buddha, Selling Rumi , or the practical considerations for purchasing Buddha statues for spiritual practice. Buying Buddha, Selling Rumi (Book Review)
Authored by in 2020, this book explores the "mystical marketplace" and the commodification of Eastern spirituality in Western society.