Bodhisattva of Transcendent Wisdom, Manjushri, Prajna (Sanskrit) Thangka

Manjushri, also known as the Bodhisattva of Transcendent Wisdom, is one of the most important and revered bodhisattvas in Mahayana Buddhism. Manjushri embodies the wisdom of emptiness (shunyata) and is considered the personification of transcendent wisdom, insight, and understanding. His name is sometimes translated as "Gentle Glory."

Wisdom is the most honored virtue in Buddhism, since only wisdom makes possible the great bliss of total freedom from all suffering that is the goal of all living beings. The youthful prince carries with his right hand the double-edged sword able to cut through illusion and with his left hand a blooming lotus that supports a volume of the Prajna-paramita Sutra.

Thangkas depicting Manjushri are used in Buddhist practices to inspire wisdom, clarity, and insight. Practitioners may meditate upon Manjushri's image to cultivate their own understanding of emptiness and to overcome ignorance and confusion. Manjushri's imagery serves as a reminder of the pivotal role that wisdom plays on the path to enlightenment in Mahayana Buddhism.

Students, scholars, those seeking direction and wisdom should meditate on this thangka.

Limited Availability: Due to the meticulous craftsmanship involved in creating each thangka, we have limited stock available. Don't miss the opportunity to own this exceptional work of art and spirituality

Here are some key aspects of Manjushri and the common iconography associated with thangkas depicting this bodhisattva:

• Sword of Wisdom: One of the most distinctive features of Manjushri's iconography is the sword of wisdom (khadga) that he wields in his right hand. This sword represents the ability to cut through ignorance, delusion, and the root causes of suffering with the sharp blade of wisdom.
• Book or Scroll: In his left hand, Manjushri often holds a book or scroll of wisdom (prajnaparamita sutra). This represents the teachings of transcendent wisdom and the profound understanding of emptiness found in Mahayana Buddhist philosophy.
• Orange or Yellow Color: Manjushri is typically depicted in an orange or yellow hue, symbolizing the radiance of wisdom's light and clarity.
• Crown and Jewels: Like many bodhisattvas, Manjushri is often adorned with a crown and jewels, reflecting his enlightened status.
• Two Forms: Manjushri can appear in two primary forms: one with two arms and another with four arms. In the two-armed form, he holds the sword and book as described above. In the four-armed form, he may also hold a lotus flower and a bow and arrow, which represent the union of wisdom and compassion.
• Lotus Seat: Manjushri is often seated on a lotus throne, symbolizing purity and the transcendence of worldly suffering through wisdom.
• Mantra and Symbols: Thangkas featuring Manjushri may include his mantra, which is "Om Ah Ra Pa Tsa Na Dhih." This mantra is chanted to invoke the blessings of Manjushri and to enhance one's wisdom and understanding.
• Bodhisattva of Wisdom: Manjushri is often referred to as the "Bodhisattva of Wisdom" due to his central role in promoting the importance of wisdom in the pursuit of enlightenment.