Sukhavati — Pure Land of Buddha Amitabha

Sukhavati is a magical kshetra (sanskr. devotional place or residence of God) created by the Buddha Amitabha. Once upon a time, Amitabha was a Bodhisattva and made a vow, having reached the state of Buddha, to create his own country, which would be called Sukhavati — Happy Country. 

It is located immeasurably far from our world, and live in it only those born in the lotus — Bodhisattvas of the highest level. They live there indefinitely, enjoying peace and boundless happiness among the fertile land, the life-giving waters surrounding the wonderful palaces of Sukhavati inhabitants, built of gold, silver, precious stones. Amitabha symbolizes mercy and wisdom. He is sometimes pictured in between the eight great Bodhisattvas Avalokiteshvara, Vajrapani, Manjushri and others. Three Kings (tib. rigsum gonpo) is depicted on the left part of the thangka and Three long life deities (tib. tse lha nam sum) on the right.

Sukhavati — Buddha Amitabha’s pure land

2005-2007, 85.5 x 127 cm

canvas, mineral pigments, gold, brocade, silk

 

Author’s property