10 Types of Salvation by Guan Yin in the Lotus Sutra

Ten Types of Salvation by Guan Yin in the Lotus Sutra 

Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara, also known as Guan Yin (Chinese), Kannon (Japanese), Chenrezig (Tibetan), or Goddess of Mercy, is one of the most renowned and popular bodhisattva in East Asian Buddhism, particularly Chinese and Tibetan Buddhism.

Guan Yin appears in Chapter 25 of the Lotus Sutra.  This very chapter becomes an independent chapter on its own. Another sutra that is associated with Guan Yin is the “Great Compassionate Dharani (Nīlakaṇṭha Dhāraṇī ). This dharani is found in Mahakarunikacitta Sutra.

In Tibetan Buddhism, the Dalai Lama is said to be the reincarnation of Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara. The popular six-syllable mantra “Om Mani Padme Hum” is synonymous with Chenrezig.

In the Heart Sutra, Guan Yin is the protagonist who expounds the profound wisdom of emptiness to Shariputra.

Guan Yin is the paragon of benevolence, epitome of magnanimous grace, and the eminent embodiment of deep compassion. The pervasive presence of Guan Yin is a testament to the paramount importance of love, kindness, and compassion in the teaching of Buddhism.

To celebrate the Renunciation Day of Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara on 19 October 2016 (19th of September in Lunar Calendar), here are the 10 types of divine salvations by Guan Yin extracted from Chapter 25 of the Lotus Sutra:

Quote #1: Protection from Fire

“If there are people who wish to harm you

by pushing you into the great pit of inferno,

think of the power of Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara;

the inferno pit will be transformed into a water pond. (Lotus Sutra 25: 2.3)

Quote #2: Salvation in the Great Ocean

“If you are drifting in a great ocean

and facing imminent danger

with dragons, fishes, and other demons,

think of the power of Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara;

the waves will be unable to swallow you. (Lotus Sutra 25: 2.4)

Quote #3: Salvation during Fall from Height 

“If you are at the summit of Mount Sumeru,

and someone pushes you off the edge,

think of the power of Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara;

you will be suspended in midair like the sun in the sky. (Lotus Sutra 25: 2.5)

Quote #4: Salvation from the Execution by a King

“If you are suffering from the punishment of a king,

and your life is about to end by execution,

think of the power of Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara;

the sword will be splintered into pieces. (Lotus Sutra 25: 2.8)

Quote #5: Release from Prison

“If you are being locked in a prison

and your hands and feet are being bound by chains and fetters,

think of the power of Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara;

you will be released and freed. (Lotus Sutra 25: 2.9)

Quote #6: Protection from Curses or Poisons

“If there are people who wish to harm you

by curses or poisonous herbs,

think of the power of Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara;

the effects will be bounced back to the originator. (Lotus Sutra 25: 2.10)

Quote #7: Protection from Demons

“If you face harm from vicious rakshasas,

poisonous dragons, or various demons,

think of the power of Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara;

no one will dare to harm you. (Lotus Sutra 25: 2.11)

Quote #8: Protection from Evil Beasts

“If you are surrounded by evil beasts

with sharp fangs and fearful claws,

think of the power of Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara;

they will quickly flee and scamper away in all directions. (Lotus Sutra 25: 2.12)

Quote #9: Salvation during Disputes or War

“If you have disputes before the court,

or are fearful in the midst of the war,

think of the power of Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara;

all enemies full of resentment will retreat. (Lotus Sutra 25: 2.21)

Quote #10: Bestow Children of Good Fortune

“If there are women who wish to give birth to a son, they should worship by giving offerings to Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara, who will bestow them a son blessed with good fortune, virtue, and wisdom. If they wish to have a daughter, they will have a beautiful and adorable daughter blessed with accumulated benevolent roots. (Lotus Sutra 25: 1.11)