Chenrezig (Skt. Avalokiteshvara)
Chenrezig (Loving Eyes) is the white Buddha form which represents the enlightened mind's loving kindness and compassion. He should be seen as a totally transparent, rainbow-like form, like a reflection in water. He sits on a lotus and the flat disc of the moon, has four arms two of which are joined in the prayer position holding the wish fullfiling gem. In his left hand he holds a lotus flower and in his right a crystal rosary. He wears the silks and ornaments of a Bodhisattva, representing all his special qualities and a deer skin over his shoulder. His eyes see all beings.
The two hands, which are joined at the level of the heart, holding the wish fulfilling jewel of the mind, symbolize the development of the precious enlightened attitude for the benefit of all beings. The second left hand, holds an open lotus flower as a sign that chenrezi has attained the highest qualities and is free from all kinds of suffering. The mala in the second right hand symbolizes the truth of the path. i.e. to recite His mantra which liberates all beings from cyclic existence.
The Mantra of Chenrezig OM MANI PEME HUNG is used worldwide in most Buddhist traditions. It is the sound or vibration which activates him and his energy field and develops in the one who recites or hears it, all of Chenrezig's qualities; the loving kindness and compassion of all Buddhas.
The six syllables purify the six realms of existence:
- OM purifies pride - the god's realm
- MA purifies jealousy - the realm of demi-gods
- NI purifies desire/attachment - the human realm
- PE purifies stupidity - the animal realm
- ME transforms greed - the realm of hungry ghosts
- HUNG transforms hate and anger - the hell realm
... OM MANI PEME HUNG ... OM MANI PEME HUNG ... OM MANI PEME HUNG ...
