Many other Kuan Yin transformations are described fully in
the various Mahayana Sutras and the underlying concept for all
are basically the same — an expression of the limitless compas-
sion of this great bodhisattva. One of the most important forms
which all Kuan Yin devotees should recognise and revere is that
of the Four-arm Avalokitesvara, worshipped by all Tibetans as
C, the Holder of the White Lotus. It is in the male
form which has two hands in the praying-gesture known as the
‘namaskara-mudra’ while the other two hands hold his symbols,
the Crystal Rosary and the Lotus Flower. He is the emana-
tion and therefore the spiritual son of Amitabha Buddha, who
blessed him and whereupon the Bodhisattva brought forth the
famous prayer, known as the Mani Mantra:“O M P H”is Mantra of Universal Protection is recited ceaselessly by
millions of Kuan Yin adherents in countries where Mahayana
Buddhism is practised. It is a very powerful mantra whose
efficacy have helped countless number of people in every way.Another great compassionate form is that of the ‘All-sided One’,
the Eleven-faced Kuan Yin. is is an esoteric form which is
widely popular in Tibet and its neighbouring countries where
Vajrayana, the third vehicle of Buddhism, is practised. Several
famous temples in Japan have this image but it is a rarity in
Chinese temples. Here is the legend:“Avalokitesvara, the All-Pitying One descended into hell, con-
verted the wicked and liberated them to Sukhavati, the Western