Gwaneum (avalokiteshvara)

Definition

Gwaneum, also known as Avalokiteshvara, is a prominent bodhisattva in Mahayana Buddhism, embodying compassion and mercy. This figure plays a crucial role in East Asian Buddhist traditions, where he is often depicted as a savior figure who hears the cries of suffering beings and aids them in achieving enlightenment. Gwaneum's presence is felt in various forms of art and sculpture, particularly in the Goguryeo period, reflecting the cultural integration of Buddhism into Korean society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Gwaneum is often depicted with multiple arms and heads, symbolizing his ability to help countless beings simultaneously.
2. In Goguryeo art, Gwaneum is frequently represented in murals and stone carvings, showcasing the influence of Buddhist iconography during this period.
3. The worship of Gwaneum became deeply rooted in Korean culture, influencing religious practices and artistic expressions across various dynasties.
4. Avalokiteshvara is sometimes associated with feminine aspects in East Asia, often depicted as a female figure known as Kannon in Japan and Guanyin in China.
5. The mantra associated with Gwaneum, 'Om Mani Padme Hum,' is widely recited among practitioners as a means to invoke his compassionate qualities.

Review Questions

• How does Gwaneum's portrayal in Goguryeo art reflect the values and beliefs of Mahayana Buddhism?
  • Gwaneum's portrayal in Goguryeo art reflects the Mahayana Buddhist values of compassion and mercy. His depictions often emphasize his ability to assist those in distress, which aligns with the bodhisattva ideal of selflessly helping others achieve enlightenment. The intricate representations found in murals and stone carvings illustrate how these beliefs were visually communicated to the society at large, promoting the importance of compassion as a central tenet of Buddhism.
• Analyze the significance of Gwaneum's multiple arms and heads in the context of Buddhist symbolism within Goguryeo art.
  • In Goguryeo art, Gwaneum's multiple arms and heads symbolize his omnipresence and ability to assist numerous beings simultaneously. This imagery conveys the bodhisattva's boundless compassion and readiness to respond to the suffering of all sentient beings. The use of such symbolism serves not only as a representation of Gwaneum's divine qualities but also reinforces the ideals of Mahayana Buddhism, where compassion is essential for achieving enlightenment.
• Evaluate the impact of Gwaneum's worship on Korean culture and its artistic expressions from the Goguryeo period onwards.
  • The worship of Gwaneum has profoundly impacted Korean culture and artistic expressions from the Goguryeo period onwards. As Buddhism became more integrated into Korean society, Gwaneum's role as a compassionate savior fostered a rich tradition of art that celebrated themes of mercy and aid for those suffering. This influence can be seen in subsequent periods through various forms such as sculpture, painting, and literature, showcasing how Gwaneum not only shaped religious practices but also provided inspiration for cultural identity within Korea.

Related terms

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

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

Goguryeo: An ancient kingdom in Korea known for its significant cultural achievements and early adoption of Buddhism as a state religion.