Buddhist figures

Understanding Buddhist figures, comprehending the wisdom of the Buddha.

Light Pervading All, Gathering Without Abandoning: Mahāsthāmaprāpta Bodhisattva and the Buddha-Recitation Path

Mahāsthāmaprāpta Bodhisattva is one of the Three Sages of the Western Pure Land, known for illuminating all with wisdom light and gathering those who recite the Buddha's name. Through the "gathering all six sense faculties, continuous pure mindfulness" method from the Śūraṅgama Sūtra, he guides beings to return to the Western Pure Land. This article explores Mahāsthāmaprāpta's origins, iconography, and the excellence of his Buddha-recitation samādhi.

The Origin of Buddhism: From Prince Siddhartha to the Enlightened Buddha

How did Buddhism, a faith that has influenced billions of people worldwide, originate? It all began more than 2,500 years ago with a prince born in the ancient Indian kingdom of Kapilavastu. He was Siddhārtha Gautama, later revered as "Shakyamuni Buddha," the enlightened one.

A Vessel of Compassion, Saving Beings upon Hearing their Cries: The Compassion and Wisdom of Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva

Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva, with boundless compassion and wisdom, perceives the sounds of the world and saves those who suffer. As one of the most important bodhisattvas in East Asian Buddhism, his image varies from male to female, holding a vase with a willow branch, symbolizing purity and compassion. This article explores the origins, symbolism, and significance of Avalokiteshvara in modern society.

"As Long as Hell is Not Empty, I Vow Not to Become a Buddha": The Great Vow and Spirit of Filial Piety of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva

Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva is renowned for his profound vow, "As long as Hell is not empty, I vow not to become a Buddha." He is the bodhisattva in charge of the netherworld, dedicated to saving beings in hell. His spirit of filial piety and his image as a rescuer from suffering hold an irreplaceable position in folk beliefs. This article delves into Ksitigarbha's original vow, his iconography, and his deep connection to filial piety.

Foremost in Hearing, Attendant to the Buddha: The Path of Venerable Ānanda

Venerable Ānanda, one of the Buddha's ten great disciples, was known as "Foremost in Hearing." He was the Buddha's attendant in his later years and a key figure in the compilation of the sutras. Ānanda's story demonstrates the importance of hearing, contemplating, and practicing the Dharma, and the journey of transformation from an ordinary being to a sage.

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