Kuan-yin
the Chinese transformation of Avalokiteśvara
Chün-fang Yü
640 pages | ~18 hrs
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the Chinese transformation of Avalokiteśvara
By Chün-fang Yü
In the rich tapestry of Buddhist devotion, few figures command as much reverence as Avalokitesvara, the bodhisattva who embodies pure compassion. Yet nowhere is this divine being's story more fascinating than in China, where a remarkable transformation occurred that has puzzled scholars and practitioners for centuries.
Chün-fang Yü presents a comprehensive exploration of how Avalokitesvara, traditionally revered as a male bodhisattva throughout much of Asia, underwent a profound metamorphosis in Chinese culture to become Kuan-yin, the beloved "Goddess of Mercy." This transformation represents one of the most intriguing developments in Buddhist history, challenging our understanding of how spiritual traditions adapt and evolve across cultures.
While other Asian societies maintained Avalokitesvara's masculine identity—with Tibetans continuing to recognize the Dalai Lamas as his earthly incarnations and Southeast Asian cultures linking him to royal power—China's spiritual landscape gave birth to an entirely different manifestation. This feminine embodiment of compassion developed her own unique characteristics, worship practices, and cultural significance.
Through careful scholarly examination, this work unravels the complex causes and processes behind this extraordinary religious evolution. For readers seeking to understand how spiritual traditions transform while preserving their essential wisdom, this study offers valuable insights into the dynamic nature of Buddhist practice and the universal human need for compassionate divine presence.
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Avalokiteśvara (Buddhist deity)
- ✓ Explore General
- ✓ Understand Buddhist philosophy and practice
- ✓ Explore General & miscellaneous religion
- ✓ Explore Avalokite{acute}svara (Buddhist deity)
- ✓ Explore Buddhism
- ✓ Explore Histoire religieuse
- ✓ Explore Avalokiteśvara (Divinité bouddhique)
Topics
Details
- Published
- 2001
- Publisher
- Columbia University Press
- ISBN-10
- 0231120281
- Pages
- 640
- Language
- EN
