Significance of Seven precious things
The Seven precious things in Mahayana Buddhism symbolize wealth and material abundance, often represented through offerings to the Buddhas. This collection includes valuable items such as gold, silver, crystal, and pearls, signifying richness and depth. These treasures adorn Buddhalands and convey the spiritual wealth associated with the divine nature of the Buddha. In contrast, Theravada tradition links these precious things to royal possessions and legendary treasures, reflecting wealth and power, as exemplified by their association with monarchs and significant figures like Mandhata.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Seven precious things'
The "Seven precious things" in Buddhism symbolize wealth and abundance, represented by valuable materials like gold, silver, and gems. They serve as offerings to Buddhas and signify richness in perception and spiritual fulfillment.
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) Material offerings that can be presented to Tathagatas, representing a form of reverence and service.[1] (2) Symbolic offerings that represent material wealth and are often used in making offerings to the Buddhas.[2] (3) A collection of valuable items, including gold, silver, Vaidurya, crystal, mother-of-pearl, red pearls, and carnelian, that one can offer to Buddhas.[3] (4) Symbolic representations of wealth and material abundance that one may wish to acquire for fulfillment.[4] (5) The precious materials that adorn the Buddhalands, including gold, silver, lapis lazuli, mother-of-pearl, red pearls, carnelian, and coral.[5]
From: Buddhacarita
(1) The metaphorical reference to the treasures that accompany the divine nature of the Buddha as he descends to Jambudvipa.[6] (2) Valuable objects that symbolize richness and prosperity.[7]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) Commodities that signify wealth and power, associated with Mandhata.[8] (2) The valuable possessions associated with a monarch, indicating wealth and material glory.[9] (3) Legendary treasures with high value and significance, said to be used to construct the brahmin's ship.[10]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) Items that are traditionally offered to the buddhas, which hold great significance in spiritual practices.[11]
From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)
(1) The wealth and abundance that would naturally come to a holy wheel-king, suggesting the divine nature of the Bodhisattva.[12]
From: Guhyagarbha Tantra (with Commentary)
(1) A set of highly valued items that are said to be granted to those who create the supreme mandala of the conquerors, symbolizing spiritual rewards.[13]