Mindfulness Meditation · Joy
This week’s meditation session is led by Sharon Salzberg and the theme is Joy. The guided meditation begins at 13:14.
Avalokiteshvara in his Potala Pure Land; Tibet; late 18th–early 19th century; Pigments on cloth, silk brocade, cotton backing; Rubin Museum of Himalayan Art, Gift of Shelley and Donald Rubin; C2012.4.5
At the center sits Avalokiteshvara, the bodhisattva of compassion and the patron deity of Tibet, depicted with four arms and adorned in silks and jewels. His upper right hand holds a crystal rosary, symbolizing the continuity of compassionate action, while his upper left holds a lotus blossom, representing purity. His lower hands are folded in front of his chest in a gesture of devotion.
The supporting figures enhance the scene’s joyful energy. Green Tara, known for offering protection from fear, sits in her own paradise (the Sandalwood Grove) at the lower left. To the right is Padmapani, another compassionate form of Avalokiteshvara. Together, they reflect the boundless expressions of compassion and spiritual joy.
The silk brocade surrounding the painting echoes the vibrancy within, extending the thangka’s invitation outward, welcoming viewers to contemplate and connect with the joy of awakening.
Sharon Salzberg is a meditation pioneer, world-renowned teacher, and New York Times bestselling author. She was among the first to bring mindfulness and lovingkindness meditation to mainstream American culture over 50 years ago, inspiring generations of meditation teachers and wellness influencers. Sharon is cofounder of the Insight Meditation Society in Barre, MA, and the author of 14 books, including the New York Times bestseller Real Happiness, now in its second edition, and her seminal work, Lovingkindness. Sharon’s podcast, The Metta Hour, has amassed eight million downloads and features interviews with thought leaders from the mindfulness movement and beyond.
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