Mahayana Buddhism teaches the Maitreya prophecy which predicts the coming of the future Buddha. Currently, Maitreya Buddha waits in Tusita Heaven until his time comes to return to the earthly realm. Maitreya sits on his throne in a constant state of preparation. As a result, a Maitreya Buddha statue is the only Buddha or Bodhisattva depicted sitting upright in a chair.
The Maitreya prophecy predicts that he will first appear in a city called Ketumati which will be part of the Chakravarti Kingdom. Additionally, in the time of Maitreya, human beings will have a life span of 80,000 years and their skin will radiate with beautiful colors. Additionally, at the time when Maitreya will reveal himself the Dharma teachings of Shakyamuni will have been forgotten. Therefore, a Maitreya Buddha statue represents the self realized Buddha of the future. Similar to the current Buddha, Maitreya must reteach the Dharma to all sentient beings.
Maitreya Buddha Statue Features
This Maitreya Buddha statue for sale wears the crown and jewels of a Bodhisattva. Maitreya is also depicting the Dharmachakra mudra because it will be his responsibility to set the “Wheel of Dharma” in motion once again. Additionally, between the thumb and index finger of each hand he holds the stem of a lotus flower.
The lotus flower is a symbol for enlightenment. The lotus seed grows from the muddy pond bottom through the murky water and blossoms in the clean air and sunshine. As a result, it resembles sentient life struggling through the vicissitudes of samsara. Only through diligent practice and steadfast dedication will it be possible to rise above the murky water to reach Nirvana. The Maitreya prophecy encourages all beings to overcome all obstacles to their spiritual realization and prepare for the future Buddha.
