Material: Red copper casting

Size: 30cm (approximate size)

Narrative:

Mañjuśrī, also known as Maitreya Bodhisattva, is a symbol of wisdom in Buddhism and is revered as the "Teacher of All Buddhas". His image and story are deeply recorded in Buddhist scriptures, showing the embodiment of wisdom, compassion and eloquence.

**Story and Origin**

The name of Manjushri Bodhisattva is translated as "Wonderful Auspiciousness", symbolizing the purity and auspiciousness of wisdom. His image first appeared in the Avatamsaka Sutra, where he assisted Sakyamuni Buddha together with Samantabhadra Bodhisattva, and was collectively known as the "Three Holy Ones of Avatamsaka Sutra" together with Buddha and Samantabhadra Bodhisattva.

According to Buddhist scriptures, Manjushri Bodhisattva had attained Buddhahood long ago, and was named "Dragon Seed Tathagata". However, he manifested himself in the Saha world as a bodhisattva, aiming to teach sentient beings and inspire bodhicitta. His wisdom is praised as a sharp sword that can break all troubles and ignorance, and guide all beings to the path of liberation.

The birth story of Manjushri Bodhisattva is also full of mystery. According to the "Majushri Nirvana Sutra", he was born in the Indian kingdom of Sravasti. When he was born, his house turned into a lotus, symbolizing the purity and transcendence of wisdom. He was able to speak at birth, and later sought ways to become a monk, and ultimately studied under the Buddha.

**SYMBOLS AND IMAGES**

The image of Manjusri Bodhisattva is usually:

- **Holding the sword of wisdom in the right hand**: symbolizes that wisdom can cut off troubles and ignorance.

- **Holding a lotus in the left hand**: There is a Prajna Sutra on the lotus, representing pure and untainted wisdom.

- **Mount Green Lion**: symbolizes the power and fearlessness of wisdom.

In Tibetan Buddhism, the image of Manjushri Bodhisattva is more diverse and closely related to the wisdom of the Five Buddhas. His five-bun shape represents the five wisdoms of the Five Buddhas, showing the profound philosophy of Buddhist cosmology.

**BELIEF AND PRACTICE**

The wisdom teachings of Manjushri Bodhisattva occupy an important place in Buddhist practice. Reciting the mantra of Manjushri Bodhisattva, "Om A La Pa Zha Na Di", is believed to open the door to wisdom, help practitioners dispel confusion and increase wisdom.

In addition, Mount Wutai is recognized as the dojo of Manjushri Bodhisattva, and many Buddhists go there to make pilgrimages and pray for wisdom and guidance. The story and image of Manjushri Bodhisattva not only inspired Buddhists, but also had a profound impact on the culture and art of East Asia.

The wisdom teachings of Manjushri remind us that wisdom is not only the accumulation of knowledge, but also the ability to see the truth and transcend attachment.