This arresting image seated on a lotus pedestal represents Padmasambhava, “The Lotus Born,” a renowned Indian scholar and tantric master, who lived in the eighth century. He was one of the Eighty-four Mahasiddhas or “Great Perfected Ones.”
Although a voluminous literature has evolved around the legendary life of Padmasambava, as a historical personage not much is known about him. All that can be said with certainty is that he was an inhabitant of Uddiyana (identified with the present day Swat valley in Pakistan) and was invited to Tibet by King Thisong Detsen (756-97?).
Padmasambhava was influential in bringing Buddhism to Tibet and in establishing its first monastery. He was specifically invited to Tibet from India to tame the demons, presumably of pre-Buddhist religions, who were obstructing the path of Buddhism in Tibet.
Practitioners of Buddhism in Tibet, Nepal and Bhutan view him as the source of their doctrine, referring to him as the “Second Buddha.”
For privacy concerns, please view our Privacy Policy
Send as free online greeting card
Email a Friend
Manage Wishlist