Page 79 - Popular Deities of Chinese Buddhism (Illustrated) and Symbols

Many other Kuan Yin transformations are described fully in

the various Mahayana Sutras and the underlying concept for all

are basically the same — an expression of the limitless compas-

sion of this great bodhisattva. One of the most important forms

which all Kuan Yin devotees should recognise and revere is that

of the Four-arm Avalokitesvara, worshipped by all Tibetans as

C, the Holder of the White Lotus. It is in the male

form which has two hands in the praying-gesture known as the

‘namaskara-mudra’ while the other two hands hold his symbols,

the Crystal Rosary and the Lotus Flower. He is the emana-

tion and therefore the spiritual son of Amitabha Buddha, who

blessed him and whereupon the Bodhisattva brought forth the

famous prayer, known as the Mani Mantra:

“O M P H”

is Mantra of Universal Protection is recited ceaselessly by

millions of Kuan Yin adherents in countries where Mahayana

Buddhism is practised. It is a very powerful mantra whose

efficacy have helped countless number of people in every way.

Another great compassionate form is that of the ‘All-sided One’,

the Eleven-faced Kuan Yin. is is an esoteric form which is

widely popular in Tibet and its neighbouring countries where

Vajrayana, the third vehicle of Buddhism, is practised. Several

famous temples in Japan have this image but it is a rarity in

Chinese temples. Here is the legend:

“Avalokitesvara, the All-Pitying One descended into hell, con-

verted the wicked and liberated them to Sukhavati, the Western

