Medicine Buddha

Buddha: The Healing Divine Being in Buddhism

Background & Significance

Therapy Respected in Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism, Buddha—called Bhaishajyaguru in Sanskrit—represents the healing quality of the Buddha's wisdom. His beginnings are in old Indian Buddhist writings, especially the Bhaishajyaguru Sutra, in which he is depicted as a celestial Buddha living in the clean region of Vaiduryanirbhasa, sometimes known as "Lapis Lazuli Light." Considered to have made twelve noble vows, he committed himself to treating diseases, easing suffering, and guiding entities toward enlightenment. His respect grew over time to China, Tibet, Japan, and other areas where he became a major player in Buddhist healing customs and ceremonies.

Iconography & Attributes

Usually showing a deep blue body, Medicine Buddha is used in Buddhist imagery to represent the healing qualities of lapis lazuli. Wearing monastic robes, he is in the lotus posture and gestures compassionately with his right hand outstretched in the varada mudra. Holding a dish of medicinal nectar or myrobalan fruit, a traditional Ayurvedic treatment thought to heal diseases, in his left hand Emphasizing his role as a heavenly healer, his calm demeanor communicates unbounded compassion and wisdom.

Associated Stories and Beliefs:

Medicine Buddha is connected with several legends and ideas indicating his dedication to end suffering. Buddhist books say he promised anyone who call his name or see him with real dedication that they will be cured of illnesses, released from suffering, and pointed toward enlightenment. Prays and ceremonies honoring him are carried out in Tibetan Buddhism to heal the sick, clean negative karma, and send peace to the departed. Widely recited for both physical and spiritual healing is his mantra, "Tayata Om Bekandze Bekandze Maha Bekandze Radza Samudgate Soha." Certain customs also show him surrounded by the Seven Medicine Buddhas, each reflecting various facets of knowledge and healing.
Medicine Buddha, who represents the transforming power of compassion, knowledge, and medicine, has been at the core of Buddhist healing traditions over history. Buddhist communities all across still find inspiration in his teachings for meditation techniques, ceremonies, and holistic healing modalities.