The Meaning of Padma

Padma, a lotus-flower, is a central symbol of Buddha-truth, used by all schools of Buddhism since its birth.

The nature of Buddha-truth is symbolized by the emergence of a pure and beautiful lotus-flower from the depth of a muddy swamp. Although deep-rooted in mud, the lotus-flower rises above the water to receive light and air.

It is hoped that the applicants of the Padma Award rise above the muddy waters of worldly passions to blossom into the purity signified by the lotus-flower.

Another meaning of a louts-flower is that it is a symbol of equality of all beings. the heart of a lotus-flower is made up of many equal-sized compartment; and in each and every compartment, a seed is found.

The Padma Award program offers an opportunity for all interested Girl Scouts to learn and better understand the Buddhist Way.

The Award and What it Means

The Padma Award is a four part program for Girl Scouts.

• The Brownie will receive a certificate on completion.
• The Junior will receive a Padma pendant in bronze.
• The Cadette will receive a Padma pendant in silver.
• The Senior will receive a certificate on completion.

The Padma Award is a medal consisting of a pendant, ribbon, and a bar. The pendant is the Lotus Blossom. It is a symbol which represents equality and purity of all things. The ribbon is wisteria color and is attached to a crossbar in which is inscribed the Sanskrit word "Padma".

The Girl Scouts of the United States of America has authorized the Padma Award to be worn on the official Girl Scout uniform.

The Award is presented by the temple to a Buddhist Girl Scout in recognition of her spiritual growth as shown by her fulfilling the Award Requirements.

The Purpose

The purpose of the Padma Award is to give Girl Scouts of the Buddhist Faith practical guidance in achieving the spiritual aspiration made in the Girl Scout Promise and Law, thereby developing a girl whose views and actions in life will stem from the highest of the Buddhist thoughts.

The Padma Award program aims to do this by leading the girls to 1) attain understanding and faith in the Buddha, 2) learn the Teachings, and 3) practice the harmonious Buddhist way of life, in the spirit of universal brotherhood of all living things. These are the dynamic aspects of the girls who are of the complete acceptance of the Three Treasures--Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha.

The Award program recognizes the Girl Scout Promise and Law and gives the Girl Scout a solid basis for fuller understanding and greater appreciation of all phases of the Girl Scout program.

Who is Eligible?

Although the Padma Award program is primarily meant for Girl Scout members of the Buddhist faith, a non-Buddhist may participate in the program provided permission is granted by their parents.

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