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Significance of Avalokiteshvara

Avalokiteshvara is a prominent bodhisattva in Buddhism, symbolizing compassion across various cultures and traditions. In Mahayana Buddhism, he is revered for embodying ultimate compassion and is often associated with forms such as Tara and Kwan-yin. Avalokiteshvara is linked to significant rituals and teachings, representing a deep connection to the essence of Buddhist symbolism. Throughout Buddhist literature and practices, he is depicted as a compassionate figure who assists sentient beings, highlighting his vital role in fostering mercy and alleviating suffering.1
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Synonyms: Padmapani, Lokeshvara

In Dutch: Avalokiteshvara; In German: Avalokiteshvara; In Finnish: Avalokiteshvara; In Spanish: Avalokiteshvara; In Swedish: Avalokiteshvara; In Malay: Avalokiteshvara; In French: Avalokiteshvara

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Avalokiteshvara'

Buddhism Books

Avalokiteshvara, a revered bodhisattva in Buddhism, embodies compassion and mercy. Central to Mahayana teachings, this figure is depicted in various forms, representing the ultimate compassion towards all beings and facilitating spiritual growth and liberation.

Significance in Tibetan Buddhism (Vajrayana or tantric Buddhism):
Tibetan Buddhism Books

From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)

(1) A prominent Bodhisattva whose imagery was recovered from the ashes of the Dharmasvamin.[1] (2) A bodhisattva associated with compassion, which the individual recognized during the ritual work on an image of this deity.[2] (3) A bodhisattva known as the embodiment of compassion, whose vision was experienced by the individual during meditation.[3] (4) A significant bodhisattva in Buddhism associated with compassion; appeared in a vision during the protagonist's spiritual journey.[4] (5) A bodhisattva whose manifestation narrated the texts to Kalacakrapada, symbolizing compassion in Buddhist teachings.[5]

Tibetan Buddhism includes schools such as Nyingma, Kadampa, Kagyu and Gelug. Their primary canon of literature is divided in two broad categories: The Kangyur, which consists of Buddha鈥檚 words, and the Tengyur, which includes commentaries from various sources. Esotericism and tantra techniques (vajrayana) are collected indepently.

Significance in Mahayana (major branch of Buddhism):
Mahayana Books

From: The gods of northern Buddhism

(1) The original Sanskrit name for Kwan-yin, often translated as the 'Lord who looks down' at suffering.[6] (2) Avalokitesvara is a bodhisattva associated with compassion, often depicted with feminine forms such as Tara.[7] (3) A bodhisattva whose worship was introduced into China in the 2nd century and later into Japan in the 7th century.[8] (4) A prominent Bodhisattva in Mahayana Buddhism, symbolizing compassion and mercy, often depicted with various features and attributes in art and scripture.[9] (5) Avalokitesvara is a Bodhisattva embodying compassion, often associated with Kwan-non and worshipped through various forms across different cultures.[10]

From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra

(1) A notable bodhisattva, often depicted as a compassionate figure, included in both lay and monastic categories.[11]

From: The 6th Patriarch Platform Sutra

(1) A principal Bodhisattva associated with compassion, as mentioned in the context of qualities essential for achieving Buddhahood.[12]

From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva fundamental vow sutra

(1) The Bodhisattva of compassion who embodies the ultimate compassion towards all living beings.[13]

Mahayana is a major branch of Buddhism focusing on the path of a Bodhisattva (spiritual aspirants/ enlightened beings). Extant literature is vast and primarely composed in the Sanskrit language. There are many sutras of which some of the earliest are the various Prajnaparamita sutras.

Significance in Buddhism (general):

From: The Great Chariot

(1) A major bodhisattva symbolizing compassion, featured in the northwest corner of the mandala.[14]

The concept of Avalokiteshvara in local and regional sources

History Books

Avalokiteshvara is a bodhisattva in Mahayana Buddhism, epitomizing compassion, associated with King Srongtsan Gampo. This figure is central to Tibetan beliefs, linked to creation myths and revered as a protector in various narratives.

Significance in South Asia:
South Asia Books

From: Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)

(1) A Bodhisattva associated with compassion who is said to reside in the rock-palace.[15]

From: The travels of Fa-Hian (400 A.D.)

(1) The Buddhist saint whom Fa-Hian invoked for protection during the tempest.[16]

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) An embodiment of compassion in Buddhism, which contrasts with Sastri's devotion to Bhagavan Ramana and spiritual tradition.[17]