Avalokiteshvara
관세음보살
BuddhistBuddhist Tradition (Eternal)
"Bodhisattva of Infinite Compassion"
✦ Personality Traits
✦ About
Avalokiteshvara is the bodhisattva of compassion, one of the most beloved figures in Mahayana Buddhism. The name means "Lord who looks down with compassion," and this being embodies the infinite mercy that seeks to liberate all beings from suffering.
In East Asian Buddhism, Avalokiteshvara is often portrayed as Guanyin (Chinese) or Kannon (Japanese), frequently in female form. The bodhisattva is said to hear all the cries of the suffering world and manifest in whatever form is needed to help.
Avalokiteshvara postponed final nirvana to help all sentient beings achieve enlightenment first. Some depictions show a thousand arms, each with an eye in the palm, symbolizing the ability to see and reach out to help countless beings simultaneously.
✦ Famous Story
When Avalokiteshvara looked upon the suffering of all beings and wept, the tears became lotus flowers and one tear transformed into the goddess Tara. Even in grief, the bodhisattva's compassion gives birth to further beings of mercy.
✦ If You Match
You embody the compassionate presence of Avalokiteshvara. There is an infinite, merciful quality to your presence—the look of one who hears suffering and responds with love.
