Avalokitesvara
1
9.9
A kind figure in Buddhism who listens to people's problems and helps them
- noun
- /ˌɑːvəloʊˈkiːtsəvərə/
- Literature
:
Avalokitesvara
- Some female deities, such as Guanyin (Avalokitesvara), retain purity by rejecting marriage (Sangren 1983).
Examples
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In Mahayana Buddhism, Avalokitesvara is revered as the Bodhisattva of Compassion, embodying the compassion of all Buddhas.
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Many followers pray to Avalokitesvara, seeking guidance and compassion in their difficult times.
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The statue of Avalokitesvara in the temple is a symbol of hope and mercy for all who visit.
Synonyms
Kwan-yin
vsAvalokitesvara
3
9.9
A female figure in Chinese Buddhism who shows great kindness and helps people in need
portrays the same compassion but highlights male depiction in Indian tradition
1
9.9
A compassionate being in Buddhism who helps people who suffer
has identical meaning but emphasizes male depiction in Indian tradition
Surface Forms
Avalokitesvara singular
Avalokitesvaras plural
Etymology
Avalokitesvara comes from Sanskrit parts ava 'down', lokita 'to look', and īśvara 'lord'. So the name means a 'lord who looks down' to help people, which fits this compassionate heavenly helper who listens to the world's cries.