See It In Your Home
Bhaishajyaguru or the healing Buddha. Instantly recognisable from the nectar-pot in the left hand, containing a blend of three life-giving and -sustaining elixirs, and the myrobalan twig in the right. Also known as the medicine Buddha.
The Bhaishajyaguru murti that you see on this page is a heavily and luxuriantly carved composition. On a high plinth He sits, roughly a third of the seated figure’s stature. The robe drawn over His princely shoulders is engraved with episodes from the life of Shakyamuni. Beneath the same is a complexion of molten gold colour.
The strikingly lifelike face of the Buddha bears an expression of deep introspection. Profound, seedless samadhi writ large over His princely brow.
Bhaisajyaguru: The Great Healer
Within the rich tapestry of Tibetan Buddhism, Bhaisajyaguru, the Medicine Buddha, stands as a beacon of healing, compassion, and the alleviation of suffering. This magnificent representation, crafted from brass, captures the serene essence and profound symbolism associated with this revered figure. Seated in the lotus position, a pose of deep meditation and enlightenment, the Buddha emanates an aura of tranquility. His eyes, gently closed or downcast, reflect an inner peace that invites contemplation and solace.
The Medicine Buddha is not merely a deity; he is a manifestation of the healing power of enlightenment itself. He embodies the principle that true healing comes not only from medicine but also from wisdom, compassion, and the purification of the mind. His teachings guide practitioners towards overcoming the root causes of suffering – ignorance, attachment, and aversion – and cultivating a state of well-being that extends to all beings.
Iconography and Symbolism
The right hand rests in the Varada Mudra, the gesture of giving and compassion, often holding a stem of the Myrobalan plant. This medicinal herb is a symbol of healing and longevity in Tibetan medicine and signifies the Buddha's power to cure physical and mental ailments. The left hand rests in the lap, holding a begging bowl.
The Buddha is adorned with the simple robes of a monk, yet these are exquisitely detailed, demonstrating the artist's dedication. The intricate patterns of the robes evoke the rich artistic traditions of Tibetan Buddhist art. The Ushnisha, the cranial protuberance on the top of the head, symbolizes his heightened wisdom and enlightenment. The elongated earlobes, remnants of his princely past, signify his renunciation of worldly possessions.
The statue rests upon a double-lotus pedestal, an ornate base that is highly symbolic in Buddhist art. The lotus, emerging from muddy waters, represents purity, enlightenment, and spiritual awakening.
The Promise of Healing
In Tibetan Buddhist practice, invoking the Medicine Buddha's name, reciting his mantra, or simply visualizing his form can bring healing and protection from illness. He is particularly revered for his ability to heal not only physical ailments but also the deeper wounds of the mind and spirit.
The presence of the Medicine Buddha in one's home or meditation space serves as a constant reminder of the potential for healing and transformation. It inspires practitioners to cultivate compassion, wisdom, and a commitment to alleviating suffering in themselves and others. This brass representation, with its exquisite detail and profound symbolism, is a powerful reminder of the healing power of the Buddha's teachings. It offers not only a beautiful piece of art but also a source of inspiration and spiritual connection.
How to keep a Brass statue well-maintained?
Brass statues are known and appreciated for their exquisite beauty and luster. The brilliant bright gold appearance of Brass makes it appropriate for casting aesthetic statues and sculptures. Brass is a metal alloy composed mainly of copper and zinc. This chemical composition makes brass a highly durable and corrosion-resistant material. Due to these properties, Brass statues and sculptures can be kept both indoors as well as outdoors. They also last for many decades without losing all their natural shine.
Brass statues can withstand even harsh weather conditions very well due to their corrosion-resistance properties. However, maintaining the luster and natural beauty of brass statues is essential if you want to prolong their life and appearance.
- The best and simplest way to maintain a brass statue is to clean it at least twice a week using a soft cloth or cotton rag. This will prevent dust from accumulating on the surface. Dusting is especially important for outdoor statues since it is prone to dust accumulation much more than indoors.
- To give a natural shine and luster to the statue, you may apply coconut or olive oil using cotton on every portion. You can use a toothbrush to get to the small crevices but do not be too harsh. This will make the brass statue appear fresh and new with a polished look.
In case you have a colored brass statue, you may apply mustard oil using a soft brush or clean cloth on the brass portion while for the colored portion of the statue, you may use coconut oil with a cotton cloth.
Brass idols of Hindu Gods and Goddesses are especially known for their intricate and detailed work of art. Nepalese sculptures are famous for small brass idols portraying Buddhist deities. These sculptures are beautified with gold gilding and inlay of precious or semi-precious stones. Religious brass statues can be kept at home altars. You can keep a decorative brass statue in your garden or roof to embellish the area and fill it with divinity.