Pretas in Theravada Buddhism: Symbols and Meanings for the Creation of Contemporary Sculptural

Abstract

The research article titled “Pretas in Buddhism: Symbols and Meanings Toward the Creation of Contemporary Sculpture” aimed to 1) study the characteristics of pretas in Theravāda Buddhism, 2) analyze the symbols and meanings of pretas in Theravāda Buddhism, and 3) create contemporary sculptures inspired by the symbols and meanings of pretas in Buddhism. This study employed a Mixed Methods Research approach by combining documentary research from the Tipiṭaka and related academic works with interviews conducted with experts in Buddhism and contemporary art and design. The collected data were analyzed through content analysis and symbolic interpretation in order to develop contemporary sculptural works, which were subsequently evaluated by members of the general public. The findings revealed that pretas in Theravāda Buddhism are beings that exist within one of the realms of suffering (Apāyabhūmi), whose appearances and living conditions reflect the consequences of unwholesome karma committed in previous lives. Based on the Ten Unwholesome Courses of Action (Akusala-kammapatha), pretas can be categorized into three types bodily misconduct pretas, or pretas resulting from unwholesome bodily actions; verbal misconduct pretas, or pretas resulting from unwholesome speech; and mental misconduct pretas, or pretas resulting from unwholesome mental actions. Each category possesses distinct physical characteristics and forms of suffering, reflecting Buddhist concepts of karma, punishment, and moral admonition. Furthermore, the symbolic analysis indicated that the characteristics of pretas function as symbols representing the consequences of one’s actions. The knowledge concerning the forms and symbolic meanings of pretas was subsequently applied in the design and creation of contemporary sculptures, with consideration given to symbolic communication and social context in order to ensure that the creative works remained consistent with Buddhist beliefs while effectively conveying their meanings to contemporary audiences. The results of this study may serve as a valuable guideline for the creation of contemporary artworks that meaningfully integrate religious and cultural dimensions.