Eight great bodhisattvas

Eight Great Bodhisattvas - or 'Eight Close Sons', the main bodhisattvas in the retinue of Buddha Shakyamuni: Mañjushri, Avalokiteshvara, Vajrapani, Maitreya, Kshitigarbha, Akashagarbha, Sarvanivaranavishkambhin, and Samantabhadra. Each fulfils a particular role to help beings. Symbolically they represent the pure state of the eight consciousnesses.

Qualities of the Eight Bodhisattvas

Although the eight bodhisattvas or ‘close sons of the Buddha’ all possess the same qualities and powers, each one displays perfection in a particular area or activity. Manjushri embodies wisdom; Avalokiteshvara embodies compassion; Vajrapani represents power; Kshitigarbha increases the richness and fertility of the land; Sarvanivarana Vishkambhin purifies wrong-doing and obstructions; Maitreya embodies love; Samantabhadra displays special expertise in making offerings and prayers of aspiration; and Akashagarbha has the perfect ability to purify transgressions.