Medicine Buddha (Bhaisajyaguru) emerges from the eponymous “Medicine Buddha Sutra” in the 7th century ACE. In the sutra, Bhaisajyaguru makes 12 great vows that he will heal sickness of mind, body and spirit. Additionally, he promises devotees to right evil deeds they may have committed and even make them rich. In order to access the healing power of Bhaisajyaguru, devotees only need recite his mantra or say his name. Our Bhaisajyaguru thangka is a world class depiction of the venerable Medicine Buddha.
Bhaisajyaguru has his own pure land called “Pure Lapis Lazuli” or “Lapis Lazuli Pure Land”. Lapis lazuli is a valuable blue mineral that radiates with the rich blue color of Bhaisajyaguru. Indeed, the blue color of lapis lazuli radiates throughout his pure land. Additionally, the ground of his pure land is made of lapis lazuli and the buildings are made of the seven treasures. The light radiating from Pure Lapis Lazuli has special healing powers that will “awaken the minds of beings dwelling in darkness” and free them from their suffering.
Our Bhaisajyaguru thangka clarifies his strong affiliation with Amitabha. Additionally, Bhaisajyaguru sits in full lotus depicting the Varada “gift giving” mudra. This symbolizes that he has given the gift of medicine to sentient life. He also holds his bowl of lapis nectar on his lap. It contains the three nectars which will eliminate the insidious poisons of greed, hatred and ignorance. Click here to learn more about the healing powers of Bhaisajyaguru.
