According to the Maitreya prophecy, Maitreya will come in the future to resurrect Buddhism. This is because sentient life will have fallen into disarray after the Dharma teachings were long forgotten. Our Future Buddha Tibetan thangka portrays Maitreya sitting upright and prepared to fulfill the prophecy. Currently, Maitreya Buddha waits in Tusita Heaven. When his time comes, he will return to the earthly realm to obtain Buddhahood and reteach the Dharma.
This Future Buddha Tibetan Thangka contains important symbolism. Most significant, is the uptala flower (blue lotus) that is growing over his left shoulder. The blue lotus is a symbol for enlightenment because it rises above the murky pond water to blossom in the clean air and sunshine. It is an important metaphor for devotees to rise above the sea of suffering (samsara) to achieve enlightenment.
Additionally, the artist included a Dharma Wheel sitting inside the blossom of the blue lotus. This is the ultimate symbol and it tells devotees that Maitreya will return to propel the Wheel of Dharma in the future. Our Future Buddha Tibetan Thangka depicts Maitreya adorned in the elaborate crown and jewels of a bodhisattva as he waits to fulfill the Maitreya prophecy. Click here to learn more about the Future Buddha.
