I suddenly got curious about what Buddhist monks might do should some wasps take up residence in the eaves of their temple. A quick Google search led to this 2008 article:
Wasp nest divinely inspired, say Rochester Buddhists
Last update: November 12, 2008 - 10:57 PM
ROCHESTER, MINN. - The Cambodian Buddhist community in Rochester is abuzz over what they believe is a miracle: a wasp nest in the shape of a seated Buddha built in the eaves of their temple.
The nest was spotted last week. Elder members of the community say they have never seen an apparition of the Buddha in their lifetimes.
Robert Jeanne, an entomology professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, said the Buddha-shaped hive could actually be four different nests formed over a couple of years. He says if someone wants to read miracles into that, that's their privilege.
Moeun Ngop, a 76-year-old monk, has a more mystical take. He says the insects are trying to communicate Buddha's message.
And Voeun Sor, 70, of Rochester, said the hive shows the Buddha is trying to tell everybody to seek peace in their lives.
Seek peace or we stang yo' ass!
Why does "Buddha in a wasp nest" feel somewhat ironic-- less like "Blessed Virgin on toast" and more like "Jesus in a hand grenade"?
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Somehow, the part of this post that fascinates me the most is this one:
ReplyDelete"I suddenly got curious about what Buddhist monks might do should some wasps take up residence in the eaves of their temple."
I, too, am prone to sudden fits of curiosity about Random Shit... which is why there's nothing strange (to me) about the idea of a light bulb suddenly appearing over your head, illuminating that great, completely off-the-wall thought.
Well, I'm convinced it's a miracle. Now, kill the wasps before they desecrate that image!
ReplyDeleteJeffery Hodges
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Jeff,
ReplyDeleteI kind of wondered what would happen if the wasps just kept on building.
Elisson,
Brain borborygmi.
Kevin