Brief Introduction of Manjushree
Manjushree, also known as Manjushree Bodhisattva, is a revered figure in Mahayana Buddhism, embodying Prajna (transcendent wisdom). The name Manjushree is derived from the Sanskrit words Manju meaning “beautiful, delightful, sweet” and Sri meaning “glory, auspiciousness,” which together translate to “Beautiful One with Glory.” Recognized for his wisdom and compassion, Manjushree is often considered the Bodhisattva of wisdom, with a profound connection to the teachings of the Buddha. In Buddhist tradition, it is said that Manjushree once served as the Buddha’s teacher in a past life. He is also known by other names, such as Manjushreekumarabhuta ("Manjushree, still a Youth") and Manjughosa ("Gentle Voice"), reflecting his eternal youthfulness and gentle nature.
History and Cultural Practice
Scriptural Roots: Manjushree is among the earliest Mahayana bodhisattvas, first appearing in the Prajnaparamita Sutras. He is central in the Lotus Sutra and Vimalakirti Sutra, where he debates non-duality with Vimalakirti.
Nepalese Mythology: In the Swayambhu Purana, Manjushree is credited with creating the Kathmandu Valley. Using his flaming sword, he cut a gorge at Chovar to drain the primordial lake, making the land habitable and giving rise to Swayambhunath Stupa. This established him as the patron deity of the valley.
Meditation and Mantra: In Buddhism, his mantra — Om A Ra Pa Tsa Na Dhih — is recited to cultivate wisdom, memory, and clarity. The syllable Dhih especially embodies intellectual awakening.
Patron Saint of Scholars: Manjushree is revered as the patron of monks and scholars. Great masters, including Je Tsongkhapa (founder of the Gelug school), are said to have received teachings from him.
Chinese Pilgrimage: In China, he is called Wenshu Pusa. His earthly abode is Mount Wutai (Wutai Shan), one of China’s most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites.
Teaching on Samadhi: In the Saptasatika Prajnaparamita Sutra, he teaches Ekavyuha Samadhi (Samadhi of One Action), contemplating the five skandhas as empty, peaceful, neither arising nor ceasing, leading to an unobstructed mind.
Iconography of Manjushree
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Flaming Sword: In his right hand, he wields the flaming double-edged Prajna Khadga (sword of wisdom), cutting through ignorance and delusion.
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Lotus Flower: In his left hand rests a blue lotus (utpala), symbol of purity and spiritual awakening.
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Jewelry: He wears a jeweled crown and ornaments, signifying celestial beauty and enlightened royalty.
Manjushree’s Role and Teachings
His importance is highlighted in many sutras:
- Prajnaparamita Sutras: Establish him as the embodiment of transcendent wisdom.
- Maha Prajna Paramita Sastra: Lists him among monastic bodhisattvas destined for Buddhahood.
- Lotus Sutra: Guides Nagaraja’s daughter to enlightenment; receives a pure land called Vimala in the East.
- Vimalakirti Sutra: Only a bodhisattva is able to debate with Vimalakirti on non-duality.
- Gaganaganjapariprccha: Teaches that words are “works of Mara” and true enlightenment lies beyond them.
- Saptasatika Prajnaparamita Sutra: Explains Ekavyuha Samadhi, meditating on the skandhas as void and peaceful to achieve inconceivable wisdom.
Story Behind Manjushree
On Mount Wutai, Bodhisattva Manjushree beheld the radiant Swayambhu light upon a lotus. Riding his blue lion, he journeyed through the mountains of China to honor the sacred light. Upon seeing the vast lake in Kathmandu, he realised the land could be freed. With his flaming sword, he sliced through the surrounding mountains, draining the water. The lotus rose as a hill, and the light transformed into the Swayambhunath Stupa , the heart of Kathmandu Valley.
