The Three Mystic Monkeys

 

     HEAR NO EVIL, SEE NO EVIL, 

      SPEAK NO EVIL

Monkeys represent our tendency to spread gossip and to gloat over the misfortune of others.  The three mystic monkeys - See No Evil, Hear No Evil, Speak No Evil - symbolize our ability to rise above this debased state, and to control and discipline our minds.

 Link: Three Mystic Monkeys: The Three Mystic Monkeys