Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum

A Brilliant Encounter of Faith and Art

The Lotus Sutra, one of the early Mahayana scriptures, was compiled in India around the 1st century. Within its teachings, Buddha Shakyamuni reveals that all beings possess the potential to attain Buddhahood, emphasizing the importance of believing in this potential. The path to Buddhahood is realized through the practice of the Bodhisattva way.

By the 3rd century, the Lotus Sutra had reached China via the Silk Road, where it gradually gained influence. The Sutra later spread to the Korean Peninsula and Japan, becoming a cornerstone of the East Asian Buddhist tradition. The chapter titled "Universal Gateway of Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara" was especially significant, as it was widely chanted across East Asia, contributing to the propagation of Avalokiteshvara’s veneration throughout the region.

The Lotus Sutra not only extols the virtues of copying its text and creating religious art but also inspired a wealth of artistic creations. It is one of the most represented Buddhist texts in the National Palace Museum's collection.

A typical Buddhist scripture is structured in three parts: the prologue, the main exposition, and dissemination. The prologue sets the scene, introducing the context and key figures involved; the main exposition delivers the teachings and practices; and the dissemination section praises the benefits of following these teachings while encouraging their propagation.

This exhibition mirrors the structure of a Buddhist scripture. The "Prologue" section introduces the historical background of the Lotus Sutra. The "Main Exposition" presents its significant artistic motifs. Finally, the "Dissemination" showcases the "Universal Gateway" chapter, related iconography of Guanyin, and the historical spread of the Lotus Sutra. Through this journey, visitors will gain insight into the profound influence of the Lotus Sutra on East Asian culture and the remarkable artistic achievements it has inspired for over a millennium.