A note containing an “aggressive” Bible verse was nailed to a Buddha statue at the Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park, prompting an investigation by the Sedona Police Department.
Wib Middleton and Olin Robie, two of the stupa’s caretakers, said the vandalism was brought to their attention on the afternoon of Friday, Dec. 4, but they feel it was placed the night before. They then reported it to police.
SPD Cmdr. Marlayne Hatler said at this time there is no indication that this is being investigated as a hate crime but rather a criminal damage report. However, officers are conducting extra patrol of the area during the nighttime hours.
“My first reaction was one of disappointment,” Robie said. “The Stupa and the surrounding area is holy to us.”
The verse was on a standard index card and was attached to the statue using three roofing nails. On it is stated, “Isaiah 63:2. ‘Why are your garments red like those of one treading the wine press?’ It’s my passion for the true king of kings. I love you Jesus forever and always.”
Robie said when he first read the Bible verse he had no idea what it meant. However, in talking with a local pastor, he got a better understanding of its meaning.
“He said it’s not a very friendly message — in fact it’s quite aggressive,” he said, adding that the pastor said it’s a metaphor for the wrath of God. “It is unfortunate that the religious intolerance that we are seeing in the world has come to Sedona.
“Those of us in the local Buddhist community have prayed for the person who vandalized the statue. Our belief in karma tells us that he or she will suffer in some way as a result of this action, which is truly unfortunate.”
Middleton said in the 11 years since the park opened there have been a few instances of vandalism but none that he would characterize as having an angry tone to them.
“Some days we can have upwards of 100 people there,” Middleton said. “People are always very respectful and peaceful. This is a real anomaly and was completely out of the blue.”
Neither said they wanted to speculate as to a motive for the crime. But they are hoping that when word gets out as to what happened, someone will come forward with information as to a suspect. Robie said if anyone does, they are asked to contact him at (928) 300-9845 or the SPD at (928) 282-3100.
