Mindfulness Meditation · Kindness
This week’s meditation session is led by Lama Aria Drolma and the theme is Kindness. The guided meditation begins at 13:08.
Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara; Nepal; 13th - 14th century; Gilt copper alloy with semiprecious stone inlay; 16 1/8 × 6 1/2 × 2 7/8 in.; Rubin Museum of Art; Rubin Museum of Himalayan Art; C2005.16.8
Avalokiteshvara, the bodhisattva of compassion, is one of the most popular deities in Nepal, where 108 forms of him are known. In his simplest form, extending his right hand in the gesture of giving and holding the stalk of a lotus (now broken) in his left, he is often called Padmapani, or “Lotus-in-Hand.”
This sculpture is remarkable for its fluid simplicity of form, graceful proportions, and elegant jewelry. The subtle modeling of the body contrasts with the voluminous pointed dress and scarf ends and the large, slim-petaled lotus blossom. The reddish tone of the metal where the gilding has worn away indicates a high copper content, which is typical of Nepalese sculpture.
Lama Aria Drolma is an ordained Buddhist teacher in the Karma Kagyu tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, who has completed over a decade of monastic study and meditation training. She is a graduate of the traditional Tibetan Buddhist retreat program spanning three years and three months, an advanced cloistered meditation training program at Palpung Thubten Choling Monastery, New York.
Lama Aria Drolma teaches worldwide, leading retreats, workshops, and corporate meditation programs and is a popular guest speaker at universities and organizations. She emphasizes Vajrayana Buddhism and Buddhist principles, making them relevant in our everyday lives, helping us to cultivate loving kindness and compassion, and bringing about a transformation of contentment and a genuine sense of well-being.
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