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With reference to Indian history, who among the following is a future Buddha, yet to come to save the world?

  1. Avalokiteshvara
  2. Lokesvara
  3. Maitreya
  4. Padmapani

Explanation

Option (c) is correct
  • A Bodhisattva is one who has generated Bodhicitta—the spontaneous wish and compassionate resolve to attain Buddhahood for the benefit of all sentient beings. The concept is associated with Mahayana Buddhism and emphasizes the ideal of universal liberation.
  • Prominent Bodhisattvas in Buddhism include:
    • Maitreya: Regarded as the future Buddha who will appear on Earth, attain complete enlightenment, and propagate the pure Dharma. The Laughing Buddha is often believed to be an incarnation of Maitreya.
Option (a), (b) and (d) is incorrect
  • Avalokitesvara: He is one of the three protective deities surrounding the Buddha and is associated with compassion, often referred to as the “listener of the world’s cries.” He is usually depicted holding a lotus flower and is also known as Padmapani. His representations are found in the Ajanta Caves, and he is considered the most revered among Bodhisattvas. Avalokitesvara also appears in Theravada traditions of Cambodia under the name Lokesvara. In some depictions, he appears in female form and is believed to incarnate in His Holiness the Dalai Lama.
  • Manjusri: One of the three protective deities around the Buddha and depicted in the Ajanta Caves. Associated with wisdom and typically portrayed as a male Bodhisattva, wielding a sword symbolising knowledge.
  • Vajrapani: One of the three protective deities around the Buddha and represented in Ajanta Caves. Embodies the power of the Buddha and is believed to manifest the strength of the five Tathagatas—Vairocana, Akshobhya, Amitabha, Ratnasambhava, and Amoghasiddhi.
  • Tara: Primarily associated with Vajrayana Buddhism. Represents virtues such as success in work, protection, and achievements.
  • Samantabhadra: Associated with practice, meditation, and virtuous conduct. Along with the Buddha and Manjusri, he forms the Shakyamuni trinity in Buddhism.
Answer: (c) Maitreya; Difficulty Level: Medium
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