Guan Yin – Mother of Mercy and Compassion

Guan Yin – Mother of Mercy and Compassion – SOLD

2014 24” x 36” oil and collage on canvas © Jo Jayson 2014
(click on image for larger version)

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Guan Yin – Kuan Yin/Quan Yin is short for Guanshiyin meaning “observing the sounds of the world” in reference to the story of Guan Yin hearing the cries of suffering of all sentient beings of the world. In Chinese Buddhism, Guan yin also means the Bodhisattva Avalokitesavara – the enlightened personification of compassion and mercy. Originally in ancient times Guan yin was depicted as a male bodhisattva but over time it has been believed that these “enlightened” ones could show themselves as both genders and also in any other form required to relieve the suffering in those they wished to comfort. Many believe Guan Yin is of no gender but of late is often depicted as a female goddess figure.

There are many stories and legends that are told about her origins, the most well known is of her as the young and pure Miao Shan, daughter of a cruel and punishing father. The most profound part of that legend was that after suffering terrible torment and ordeal on earth by her father, she began her journey to heaven, and about to move into the spirit realms, she heard the cries of the suffering from the world below. Full of compassion, mercy and forgiveness, she chose to return to earth, vowing never to leave until all suffering had ended.

She is patroness of fisherman and seamen and her energy is associated with the pink lotus, symbolizing purity, peace and harmony. Often depicted with a dragon, (wisdom and power) or a dove (fecundity), with many heads and arms to help her in aiding so many. Most commonly, she holds a small jar filled with the nectar of life, compassion and wisdom to be sprinkled onto her devotees with the branch of willow leaves in her right hand. The willow branch being a symbol of flexibility whilst weeping.

Guan Yin has become the most beloved archetype of the Mother Goddess Divine and regardless of which legends are to be believed, this beautiful energy resides in and around us for all eternity.