Guanyin
관음보살
ChineseChinese Buddhism
"Goddess of Mercy and Compassion"
✦ Personality Traits
✦ About
Guanyin is the bodhisattva of compassion, one of the most beloved deities in Chinese Buddhism. Though she could enter nirvana, she vowed to remain in the world until all sentient beings are freed from suffering, hearing the cries of all who call her name.
Her compassion is unlimited and unconditional—she appears in whatever form will best help those who pray to her, whether as a beautiful woman, a monk, or any other guise. She is often depicted with many arms and eyes, symbolizing her ability to reach all who suffer.
Guanyin represents the ideal of selfless compassion, the bodhisattva path of helping others before oneself, and the comfort that comes from knowing someone hears our prayers.
✦ Famous Story
When the princess Miaoshan was condemned to death by her father for refusing to marry, she attained enlightenment at the moment of execution. She later sacrificed her eyes and arms to save her father from illness, becoming Guanyin with a thousand arms and eyes.
✦ If You Match
Your features carry the boundless compassion of Guanyin. There is mercy in your appearance—the look of one who hears suffering and responds with selfless love.
