Avalokiteshvara

Definition

Avalokiteshvara is a bodhisattva in Mahayana Buddhism who embodies the compassion of all Buddhas. Known as the 'Lord who Looks Down' or 'Goddess of Mercy,' this figure represents the ideal of compassion and is often depicted in various forms across different cultures, highlighting the importance of altruism in Buddhist practice.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Avalokiteshvara is often depicted with multiple arms and heads, symbolizing their ability to help countless beings simultaneously and their omnipresence in compassion.
2. In Tibet, Avalokiteshvara is known as Chenrezig and is considered the patron deity, closely associated with the Dalai Lama, who is believed to be an incarnation of this bodhisattva.
3. The mantra associated with Avalokiteshvara, 'Om Mani Padme Hum,' is widely recited by practitioners seeking to cultivate compassion and alleviate suffering.
4. Avalokiteshvara's iconography can vary greatly across cultures, appearing as male or female; in some traditions, they are represented as a female figure known as Kannon in Japan.
5. This bodhisattva plays a significant role in many Buddhist rituals and practices focused on healing and compassion, embodying the ideal of selfless service to others.

Review Questions

• How does Avalokiteshvara represent the concept of compassion in Mahayana Buddhism?
  • Avalokiteshvara epitomizes the concept of compassion within Mahayana Buddhism by embodying the altruistic ideal that prioritizes the welfare of all sentient beings. As a bodhisattva, Avalokiteshvara postpones their own enlightenment to assist others on their spiritual journeys. This selfless approach highlights the importance placed on compassion and empathy in Buddhist practice, inspiring devotees to cultivate these qualities in their own lives.
• Discuss how Avalokiteshvara's depiction varies across different cultures and what this signifies for understanding Buddhist iconography.
  • Avalokiteshvara's depiction varies significantly across cultures, from a male figure in Tibetan Buddhism to a female representation like Kannon in Japan. These variations signify how different cultural contexts interpret and express the ideals of Buddhism, particularly compassion. This diversity reflects local beliefs and practices while maintaining the core essence of Avalokiteshvara as a symbol of mercy, showcasing Buddhism's adaptability and depth across various societies.
• Evaluate the impact of Avalokiteshvara's teachings and practices on modern Buddhist communities globally.
  • Avalokiteshvara's teachings and practices have had a profound impact on modern Buddhist communities worldwide, promoting values of compassion and altruism that resonate deeply in contemporary society. Many practitioners actively incorporate Avalokiteshvara's mantra 'Om Mani Padme Hum' into their daily lives as a means to foster mindfulness and kindness. Additionally, this bodhisattva’s emphasis on selfless service inspires various social justice movements within Buddhist communities, as followers strive to alleviate suffering both locally and globally through acts of compassion.

Related terms

Bodhisattva: A being who is on the path to becoming a Buddha, motivated by great compassion to help others achieve enlightenment before seeking their own.

Mahayana Buddhism:

One of the two major branches of Buddhism, emphasizing the role of bodhisattvas and the pursuit of enlightenment for the sake of all beings.

Mantra: A sacred sound or phrase that is repeated in meditation or prayer, often associated with a particular deity or bodhisattva, such as Avalokiteshvara's mantra 'Om Mani Padme Hum.'