Avalokiteshvara (Buddhist deity)

Biography

Avalokiteśvara, or Chenrezig in Tibetan Buddhism, is one of the most eminent dignitaries in Buddhism and is also referred to as the Bodhisattva of Compassion. He is also recognized as the earthly expression of the eternal Buddha, Amitabha, who is occasionally featured in his headdress. He discarded his own acquiescence into Nirvana to acknowledge the vast majority that have not accomplished enlightenment, depicting his sacrifice, inestimable care and willingness to help others. The deity is usually depicted with four arms and either in a standing or seated position. He is often depicted holding a white lotus, signifying his insight into the nature of emptiness and the eternal gem of Bodhichitta, the intellect of enlightenment. His body is white, and he is represented in the seated lotus position with four arms.