Ever heard of Kuan Yin? Considered the mother of Buddhism, legend has it that the “Goddess of mercy” from Chinese mythology was about to enter the heavenly paradise, but she stopped midway when she heard the screams of the most suffering. For these and others, the meaning of her name is "she who hears the cries of the world".
And the most incredible thing of all is that Kuan Yin was among us, beings of flesh and blood, and only after her death did she gain the status of a goddess, mainly due to her actions while she was here on Earth. Considered the ultimate symbol of spiritual purity, she walked the world and, after seeing much suffering, swore to protect and support all humans until all their pain was healed.
Dand according to Chinese Buddhism, Kuan Yin is the “Bodhisattva” (enlightened being) of compassion. The statue of the goddess is located at Puji Temple on the paradise island of Putuoshan, China. Visitors of hers believe that she hears all our prayers, and everyone who tunes in to her energy will feel how sweet, gentle and at the same time powerful she is. According to her devotees, it is enough to mention her name for suffering and difficulties to be alleviated.
Represented in various forms, Kuan Yin can be seen accompanied by a dragon, armed, in a lotus flower or in other diverse forms. Incidentally, it is no coincidence to see that, in the paintings of Tibetan artists, lineages of Buddhas and holy men also appear floating on lotus flowers. This is a way of representing the thrones of supreme spirituality.
In Buddhist theology, Kuan Yin is sometimes recognized as the captain of the “Salvation Boat”, which leads souls to the “Western Paradise of Amitabha”, a place known as “Pure Land” or “Land of Blessings”. There souls can be born again to continue receiving teachings until reaching fullness.
Like Artemis, goddess of Greek mythology, Kuan Yin is also a virgin goddess who supports everyone, but especially women and children. Did she notice that the goddess's hands often form a characteristic sign? So, this is the “Yoni Mudra”, sign that represents the uterus as the gateway to this world by the universal feminine principle.
Finally, the simplicity shown by Kuan Yin, in interrupting his ascent to heaven to heal the pains of the world, is a strong sign of universal brotherhood. His precepts will live on eternally in the hearts of his devotees, who will always be led to a path of mercy and compassion, both for others and for themselves.
Text written by Diego Rennan from the Eu Sem Fronteiras Team
