In Tibetan Buddhism, it is believed that Buddha gave the knowledge of medicine to mankind. As a result, Medicine Buddha is believed to be the healing attribute of Shakyamuni. Following the teachings of the Buddha will heal external ailments as well as internal. In fact, internal ailments such as attachment, hatred and ignorance are the root cause of all physical ailments. As a result, curing the inner impurities will be effective in eliminating the outer ailments such as disease.
Medicine Buddha Statue Features:
Medicine Buddha is also known as Bhaisajyguru which translates as “King of the Medicine Master and the Lapis Lazuli Light”. Our Medicine Buddha statues are depicted in the full lotus pose. Additionally, the Buddha is holding a small bowl of medicine in the palm of his left hand which is resting on his lap. However, this is not modern pharmaceutical medicine. But instead it is the symbolic Lapis medicine nectar used to cure defilements.
In his right hand, between the index finger and thumb Bhaisajyguru is holding the stem of the myrobalan plant which is still widely found in Nepal and India. The leaves and nuts from the myrobalan are believed to have healing properties which the Buddha gave to mankind. Additionally, the right hand has the palm facing outwards in the open “charity” of “wish granting” mudra. This indicates that the Buddha is granting knowledge of the cure to mankind.
Noble One, you should think of yourself as someone who is sick,
Of the Dharma as the remedy,
Of the Buddha as a skillful doctor,
And of your diligent practice as the way to recovery.
Bhaisajyaguru is also renown for his 12 vows of compassion. Indeed, there is no doubt that Medicine Buddha genuinely endeavored to assist the destitute and relieve the suffering of all sentient beings. Click here to learn more about Medicine Buddha.
