Fall 1999 Exhibition
Artist unknown
Buddha and Sixteen rakan
(14th century)
Hanging scroll
Buddhist Painting and Sculptures from the Collection
September through November 1999
Buddha: The "enlightened one;" the founder of Buddhism. Originally an Indian prince who lived sometime between the 7th and 4th centuries BCE, the Buddha gave up his royal position when he realized that all life is suffering. After his enlightenment, he preached to others about the path to release from the cycle of suffering in this world.
Rakan (Skt. Arhat): The disciples of the Buddha who have destroyed all evil passions in themselves and thus have been freed from the cycle of rebirth. In the Hinayana tradition, these saints are thought to represent the highest stage of sainthood and images of them became popular with the growth of Zen and emphasis on meditation as a means to salvation of the self.
Jizō (Skt. Ksitigarbha): A soul-saving bodhisattva who selflessly takes upon himself the sufferings of others in hell. Jizō chooses not to escape the cycle of rebirth and suffering and be born into the Pure Land, but rather remains in this world to help others achieve salvation. Especially popular as the saviour of the souls of dead children, who are unable to save themselves, Jizō is probably one of the most popular Buddhist deities in Japan.
Lotus: Life-giving flower (from which the gods such as Brahma and Laksmi were said to have been born in the Indian tradition) with strong associations with the Buddhist Pure Land. The lotus represents long life, wealth, light, and hope.
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Gallery hours: Tuesday through Saturday 1 – 5 pm. Closed on national holidays and during the month of August.
Admission: $5 for adults, $3 for students with valid ID. Children 12 and under free.
Weekly docent tours are held Saturdays at 1 pm and guided group tours can be arranged by calling the Center in advance at (559) 582-4915.