Material: Fabric. Embroidery. Scroll. (Padmasambhava)

Size: Approx. 122 x 83 cm

Description:

Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche or Guru Rinpoche, is a very important historical and legendary figure in Tibetan Buddhism and is regarded as one of the founders of Tantra. He holds a high status in Tibetan Buddhism, especially in the Nyingma school (Red Sect), and is revered as the "Second Buddha". The following is an overview of the significance and origin of Padmasambhava:

**Origin**

1. **Historical Background**:

Padmasambhava lived in the 8th century and was said to have been born in Uddiyana (now Swat, Pakistan) in the northwest of ancient India. His life is full of myths, and Tibetan Buddhism believes that he is an incarnation of the Buddha, born to promote Tantra.

- According to legend, Padmasambhava was born from a lotus, symbolizing its purity and holiness, hence the name "Padmasambhava" (meaning "born from a lotus").

- He was invited to Tibet by Trisong Detsen of the Tibetan Tubo Dynasty to help spread Buddhism and subdue the local demons and local Bon forces that opposed Buddhism.

2. **Introduction to Tibet**:

- Padmasambhava arrived in Tibet in the 8th century and helped to establish the first Buddhist temple, Samye Monastery, marking the official rooting of Buddhism in Tibet.

- He used the practice methods of Tantric Buddhism and integrated the elements of local Bon religion to make Buddhism more acceptable to Tibetans. This integration formed the unique style of Tibetan Buddhism.

- He also founded the Nyingma school, emphasizing the practice of secret methods to achieve Buddhahood in this life, and left a large number of Termas (hidden teachings) for future generations to explore and inherit.

3. **Myths and legends**:

- Guru Padmasambhava is believed to have eight incarnations (eight great manifestations), such as Vajrapani, Lion-faced Dakini, etc., symbolizing that he can save sentient beings in different forms.

- Legend has it that he eventually went to the Rakshasa Kingdom (Copper-colored Mountain, Chamara) to continue to save sentient beings, becoming an eternal existence, responding to the prayers of believers at any time.

**Meaning**

1. **Founder of Tantra**:

- Guru Padmasambhava is the founder of Tibetan Tantra. He taught the teachings of Vajrayana, emphasizing the practice of rapid enlightenment through rituals, mantras, visualization, etc.

- His teachings emphasize inner awakening, transcending duality, and helping practitioners to understand the nature of their own mind.

2. **Subduing demons and protecting dharma**:

- Guru Padmasambhava subdued the demons and evil spirits in Tibet with his supernatural powers and transformed them into Buddhist dharma protectors, symbolizing his ability to subdue internal and external obstacles.

- This image of subduing demons also represents the power of practitioners to overcome inner greed, anger, ignorance and other troubles.

3. **Symbol of culture and faith**:

- In Tibetan Buddhism, Guru Padmasambhava is regarded as the embodiment of compassion and wisdom, and the protector and guide of all beings. His image often appears in thangkas, Buddha statues and temples, becoming an important symbol of Tibetan culture.

- His teachings and treasure inheritance continue to influence the development of Tibetan Buddhism, especially the followers of the Nyingma school regard him as the supreme master.

4. **Spiritual inspiration**:

- The life story of Guru Padmasambhava inspires practitioners to pursue liberation, emphasizing the importance of faith, courage and wisdom. His teachings remind people that practice is not only an external ritual, but also a transformation of the inner mind.

**Conclusion** Guru Padmasambhava is the soul of Tibetan Buddhism. His origin combines history and mythology, symbolizing the spread and adaptation of Buddhism in Tibet. His significance lies not only in teaching and subduing demons, but also in providing practitioners with a tantric path to enlightenment. For Tibetan Buddhists, Guru Padmasambhava is an eternal teacher. Through prayer and practice, believers believe that they can obtain his blessings and guidance.

(Thangka printed in cloth frame)