Representing the Elements: Earth, Air, Fire and Water
Chinese and Japanese gardens often include things intended to represent each of the four elements. Buddhist gardens in other countries now often also use this idea.
Water
A pool, stream, waterfall or fountain - or sometimes fine gravel raked so that it looks like waves or ripples in water.
Fire
Something which reflects sunlight strongly or a stone lantern, which contains a candle. In Japan, many designs of stone lantern appeared. These look beautiful in the daytime as well as night and have become a common garden ornament.
Air
Wind chimes or little temple bells with tongues which are moved by the wind. Trees with leaves which rustle in the wind or anything which shows the presence of the wind. Flags will also do.
Earth
Rocks, very carefully chosen and arranged, as we will see on the next page.
Continue reading: Buddhism and the love of rocks.
Other Sources of Information
www.onmarkproductions.com/html/ishidoro.shtml - For in-depth information and photos of Japanese stone lanterns.