(SKU: LSB1003E16) The Bodhisattva cult became quite strong in Sri Lanka during the middle Anuradhapura era. A Bodhisattva is a Buddhist god who has attained the ultimate level of transcendence yet refuses to ascend to heaven in order to help the earthbound. The Bodhisattva, known as Avalokitesvara in Sanskrit, has both male and female parts and is associated with the qualities of compassion and forgiveness. Its Chinese incarnation, Guanyin, has traditionally been shown as female and translates as 'watcher of sounds. Buddhists believe they can hear the screams of all those who suffer on Earth and help them to salvation.
