Avalokiteshvara

Definition

Avalokiteshvara is a prominent bodhisattva in Mahayana Buddhism, embodying the compassion and mercy of all Buddhas. Often depicted with multiple arms and eyes, he symbolizes the ability to see and respond to the suffering of sentient beings. This figure plays a crucial role in Buddhist art, influencing various forms of sculpture, painting, and murals throughout East Asia.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Avalokiteshvara is often depicted in East Asian art with numerous arms, each representing the willingness to help countless beings in distress.
2. In Tibetan Buddhism, Avalokiteshvara is revered as the Dalai Lama's spiritual embodiment, emphasizing his importance in Tibetan culture.
3. Iconography of Avalokiteshvara varies across cultures; for example, in Japan, he is known as Kannon and is often represented in a more serene and compassionate manner.
4. The mantra associated with Avalokiteshvara, 'Om Mani Padme Hum,' is one of the most widely recited mantras in Buddhism, believed to invoke his blessings and compassion.
5. Avalokiteshvara's significance is highlighted in various Buddhist texts, including the 'Lotus Sutra,' where he exhibits profound compassion through his vows to help all beings.

Review Questions

• How does the iconography of Avalokiteshvara reflect his role as a bodhisattva?
  • The iconography of Avalokiteshvara features multiple arms and eyes, symbolizing his boundless compassion and ability to perceive the suffering of countless beings. Each arm can be seen as a means to assist those in need, reinforcing the idea that a bodhisattva actively engages in alleviating suffering. This representation highlights Avalokiteshvara's commitment to help others achieve enlightenment before entering Nirvana himself.
• In what ways does Avalokiteshvara's portrayal differ between Tibetan Buddhism and East Asian traditions?
  • In Tibetan Buddhism, Avalokiteshvara is often depicted with elaborate ornaments and multiple arms, reflecting his dynamic nature and active engagement in the world. Conversely, in East Asian traditions such as Japanese Buddhism, he is commonly represented as Kannon, often taking on a more serene form that emphasizes compassion and nurturing qualities. These differences illustrate how cultural contexts influence religious iconography while maintaining the core attributes of Avalokiteshvara.
• Evaluate the impact of Avalokiteshvara on Buddhist practices and beliefs across different cultures.
  • Avalokiteshvara significantly impacts Buddhist practices by embodying the ideal of compassion across diverse cultures. His various manifestations reflect regional beliefs—such as Guanyin in China or Kannon in Japan—demonstrating how local customs shape spiritual expressions. The widespread recitation of his mantra 'Om Mani Padme Hum' serves not only as a devotional practice but also as a means for practitioners to cultivate compassion in their own lives. This highlights Avalokiteshvara's role in unifying diverse Buddhist traditions while promoting the central tenet of compassionate action.

Related terms

Bodhisattva:

A being who has attained enlightenment but chooses to remain in the cycle of rebirth to help others achieve liberation.

Guanyin: The Chinese manifestation of Avalokiteshvara, often associated with compassion and depicted as a female figure in later traditions.

Mahayana Buddhism: A major branch of Buddhism that emphasizes the path of the bodhisattva and the importance of compassion for all beings.