Shandao
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Download or edit the free picture Shandao for GIMP online editor. It is an image that is valid for other graphic or photo editors in OffiDocs such as Inkscape online and OpenOffice Draw online or LibreOffice online by OffiDocs.
Sitting upon a lotus pedestal is an eminent monk associated with the practice of Pure Land Buddhism, Shandao (Japanese: Zend\u014d) of Tang-dynasty (618\u2013906) China. He places his palms together as he contemplates the Buddha Amida (Sanskrit: Amit\u0101bha). Followers of Pure Land Buddhism aim to experience birth in the realm Amida, a paradise ideally suited for the pursuit of enlightenment. The sculpture is one of a pair, the other sculpture depicting H\u014dnen, of Kamakura-period (1185\u20131333) Japan. Shandao\u2019s religious thought inspired that of H\u014dnen, and the two are often shown together in paintings. The paintings are based upon a vision of Shandao experienced by H\u014dnen. In the dream, the Chinese monk validates H\u014dnen\u2019s mission to spread throughout Japan the belief in Amida\u2019s salvific powers. The two face one another, Shandao floating above H\u014dnen on a bank of clouds. Sculpted, seated figures of the pair such as this are unusual, although paintings of the two seated facing forward in Chinese-style chairs are known.Both this sculpture and its mate are identified on their backs in ink.Free picture Shandao integrated with the OffiDocs web apps
