avalokiteshvara
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Definition
Proper noun A male Bodhisattva in Mahayana Buddhism, embodying the compassion of all Buddhas. He is a central figure who postpones his own enlightenment to assist all sentient beings. He is widely venerated and associated with various manifestations, both divine and human, across different Buddhist cultures.
Usage and Examples
- In Buddhist texts, Avalokiteshvara is often depicted with a thousand arms and eyes, symbolizing his boundless capacity to see and aid suffering in the world.
- Devotees chant mantras, such as "Om Mani Padme Hum," dedicated to Avalokiteshvara to invoke compassion and protection.
- The concept of Avalokiteshvara is central to understanding the Bodhisattva ideal in Mahayana Buddhism.
Advanced Usage and Cultural Context
- Manifestations and Associations: Avalokiteshvara is syncretized with various figures. In East Asia, he is often revered in a female form as Guanyin (China) or Kannon (Japan). In Tibet, he is known as Chenrezig and is considered the patron deity.
- Philosophical Role: The name is often interpreted as "The Lord Who Looks Down (with compassion)," emphasizing his role as the perceiver of the world's cries. He represents the active principle of karuna (compassion), complementing the wisdom (prajna) of other Bodhisattvas.
Variants and Related Words
- Avalokitesvara: An alternative, common transliteration of the Sanskrit name.
- Chenrezig (Tibetan): The Tibetan name and form of Avalokiteshvara.
- Guanyin (Chinese) / Kannon (Japanese): The East Asian feminine manifestation of the Bodhisattva of compassion, derived from Avalokiteshvara.
- Padmapani ("Lotus-Bearer"): An epithet for Avalokiteshvara.
Synonyms and Related Concepts
- Bodhisattva: A being dedicated to achieving enlightenment for the benefit of all. Avalokiteshvara is a specific, major Bodhisattva.
- Karuna: The Sanskrit term for "compassion," the primary virtue embodied by Avalokiteshvara.
- Mahayana Buddhism: The Buddhist tradition in which the veneration of Avalokiteshvara is most prominent.
Noun
- a male Bodhisattva; widely associated with various gods and people