The Buddhabrot is a kind of
Mandelbrot Set, an
image created by
graphing the full
extrapolation of a simple mathematical
function. In this case, the image generated by running the numbers for the set is strikingly similar to the iconic image of the
Buddha, seated in
lotus position, encased in a
halo of
light. To the informed eye,
the image (a very good rendition is available here) offers cues including, for example, intersections seemingly closely aligned with the seven traditional
chakra points; the appearance of not only a figure seated in the traditional position, but having hair bound up in a tight
topnot, and a central
heart with two great arteries twinned forth from it.
The formula is quite simple:
zn+1 = zn2 + c
(*for all sets for which where z0 = 0 does not tend to infinity)
As the number of
iterations increases, and the depth and detail of the image are enhanced, it seems to become possible to see
cosmic architecture within the
calculations, to see our
Universe. Its diverse
worlds, its
stars, its
galactic clusters and
gaseous clouds, become apparent within the form of the Buddha. Confessedly, the image is short enough on detail that some disagreement is possible over things such as the placement of the
arms and
hands. And it only presents the iconic view from the zero rotation, with the image 'on its side' from how it would initially be graphed at that rotation. From a sidereal rotation, it seems more like a slightly bent two-headed
pancake. But the
iconography of the essential image could not be more fundamentally presented, this being the most natural presentation of any asymmetric Mandelbrot set appearing to be stacked upon a single broad base.
And so, to a devout Buddhist, it might well seem that the incidence of this mathematical as if our Universe itself were tugging at our sleeves and declaring, 'hey, check
this out.' One can only imagine how representatives of
other religions might behave if mathematical formulae unexpectedly produced imagery of their symbols or favoured characters. But they don't so we may never know.