Antique Ancient Chinese Shoushan Stone Hand Carved Guanyin Kwan-Yin Bodhisattva Manjushri Statue Song Dynasty Mahayana Buddhism Decorative Art

Manjushri Bodhisattva 

Mañjuśrī is associated with prajñā (transcendent wisdom). In Japan, this Bodhisattva is known as Fugen and is often venerated in Shingon and Tendai Buddhism.

Manjusri's essence embodies boundless wisdom, transcending conventional notions and accumulated knowledge. Within the realm of Esoteric Buddhism, he is revered as the divine embodiment of meditation, often referred to as the "Meditational Deity." In Sanskrit, he is known as 'Prajna,' signifying both a gentle radiance and nobility. This enlightened being stands as the epitome of profound understanding in the realm of Mahayana Buddhism. Having previously attained enlightenment, this noble prince vowed to reincarnate as a bodhisattva in order to disseminate the teachings of the Buddha regarding the concepts of emptiness and selflessness. Notably, Manjushri stands among the foremost disciples of Shakyamuni Buddha and is frequently referenced in his discourses on intellectual pursuits. In one widely known legend, Manjushri was said to have cleared the Kathmandu Valley in Nepal, rendering it habitable for human settlement.  

Manjushri is often depicted with a sword in his right hand, (the Vajra Sword of Discriminating Wisdom / Insight), which is a representation of the attained wisdom/discernment that cuts through ego, ignorance, self-imposed obstacles, and earthly entanglements.