Carved Qwan Yin

Description

Kwan Yin, Bodhisattva of Compasssion

The name Kwan Yin (also called Quan Shi Yin and Kuan Yin) is derived from Quan meaning to inquire or look deeply into, Shi meaning the world of people, or generations, and Yin meaning cries.

This ancient Indian Buddhist religious figure is known as the Boddhisatva of Compassion. She is known for inquiring into the suffering (cries) that have come down through the generations.

Kwan Yin is considered to be the feminine form of Avalokitesvara(Sanskrit), whose worship was introduced into China in the third century.

Kuan Yin (Quan Yin) is sometimes called the Chinese Madonna even though she hails from India. She is a symbol of compassion, mercy and forgiveness.

In China she is associated with physical love. She is the patroness of fisherman. She is often seen with a willow branch, or with a rosary around her neck or in her hand and a white lotus in the other hand. She is sometimes pictured with a dove or a book in her hand, representing teaching.

This carving makes a wonderful addition to your meditation altar.