Celebrating the Birthday of Guanyin Bodhisattva

Guanyin Bodhisattva

Today, the 19th day of the second lunar month, we celebrate the sacred birthday of Bodhisattva Guanyin (Avalokiteshvara) in Chinese Buddhism.

Bodhisattva Guanyin is renowned for her great compassion and her vow to relieve the suffering of all sentient beings.

Why is she called Guanyin?
“Guan” means to observe, and “Yin” means sound—she is the one who perceives the sounds of the world. Hearing the cries of suffering beings, she responds with compassion and comes to their aid.

In the Lotus Sutra, Chapter 25 — The Universal Gate of Bodhisattva Guanyin — it is taught that whenever beings are in danger or distress, they may call upon her name. By sincerely reciting Namo Guanshiyin Pusa (which means “I take refuge in Guanyin Bodhisattva”), one can receive her compassionate assistance.

Through continuous and sincere recitation of her holy name, Guanyin Bodhisattva responds to the cries of suffering and offers protection and guidance.

Guanyin Bodhisattva, together with Bodhisattva Dashizhi (Mahasthamaprapta), serves as one of the two great attendants of Amitabha Buddha. Together, they are known as the Three Sages of the Western Pure Land.

Amitabha Buddha is also regarded as Guanyin’s teacher, and she is often depicted with Amitabha Buddha in her crown, symbolising reverence and lineage.

On this auspicious day, let us offer our prayers to Guanyin Bodhisattva.
May her great compassion and wisdom guide us on the path of awakening.
May all beings be happy and free from suffering.
May all beings attain rebirth in Amitabha Buddha’s Pure Land.

Namo Guanshiyin Pusa
Namo Amitabha Buddha
Namo Amituofo