The 1000 armed Avalokiteshvara story is based on his vow to forgo enlightenment until all sentient life was cured of all suffering. The weight on his shoulders was so immense that he exploded into thousands of pieces. Fortunately, Amitabha Buddha was able put Avalokiteshvara together again. Additionally, he gave him a thousand arms so he could work more efficiently to achieve his vow. He also gave him 11 heads so he could hear and see the suffering of all beings. As a result of this amazing history, devotees can have their own 1000 armed Avalokiteshvara statue.
Special Features of 1000 Armed Avalokiteshvara Statue
The two main hands of our 1000 armed Avalokiteshvara statue are in front of his chest pressing the cintamani wish fulfilling jewel between them. Additionally, his other main arms hold traditional objects such as the 108 mala beads, bow and the blossoming lotus. He holds the 108 mala beads in his upper right hand because he is constantly reciting the Avalokiteshvara mantra “Om Mani Padme Hum”.
Additional aspects of the statue include the 11 heads that rise over his shoulders and above the 1000 arms. However, only 9 of the heads are his and the top two are Vajrapani and Amitabha. To understand the meaning behind the eleven heads and thousand arms, see our guide to Avalokiteshvara meaning and symbolism.
Indeed Avalokiteshvara, Vajrapani and Amitabha Buddha form an important trinity in Mahayana and Pure Land Buddhism.
Authentic, Handmade in Nepal
Every statue and ritual item is handcrafted in Patan, Nepal, using traditional lost wax casting and comes with a certificate of authenticity issued by Nepal's Department of Archaeology, verifying its materials, technique, and origin.
