The Medicine Buddha thangkas gain their popularity as it is traditionally believed that these deities have the healing power of their blue shade, the Lapis Lazuli, and they are quite commonly collected and treasured in order to preserve good health. The Medicine Buddha thangkas exclusively use a fine shade of azure, neon, or in some cases, cornflower blue that both symbolizes its purpose and gives it a nice, aesthetic touch.

Medicine Buddha: The Healing Deity in Buddhism

Background & Significance

Within East Asian traditions such as Tibetan and Chinese Buddhism, the Medicine Buddha, also called Bhaisajyaguru or Bhaishajyaguru, is a highly esteemed figure in Mahayana Buddhism. 

The roots of the Medicine Buddha can be found in the sutras of the Mahayana school of Buddhism, particularly in the "Bhaisajyaguru Vaidurya Prabha Raja Sutra." This sutra tells the tale of the Medicine Buddha and his twelve vows, emphasizing his function as a healer and mentor for people afflicted with mental and physical illnesses. With time, Buddhism in East Asian nations came to emphasize the worship of the Medicine Buddha.

The Medicine Buddha is significant because of his function as a spiritual physician, healing mental and physical afflictions. Buddhists believe that they can achieve both bodily and spiritual well-being by engaging in devotional practices to the Medicine Buddha.

Iconography and Attributes:

The Medicine Buddha is frequently portrayed with various distinctive qualities and symbols. Usually depicted as a dazzling form with a blue body, he represents the Buddha's healing power. He is holding a myrobalan fruit, which means medical knowledge, in one hand and an aura plant stem, which represents the alleviation of suffering, in the other.

The lotus chair seat the Medicine Buddha frequently occupies emphasizes enlightenment and purity even more. Seven Medicine Buddhas surround him; each has a distinct quality and represents various facets of compassion and healing.

Associated Stories and Beliefs:

The Medicine Buddha is commonly associated with myths and beliefs that center on his healing powers over mental and physical ailments. Practitioners assert that healing and inner peace can be attained by repeating the chant of the Medicine Buddha and focusing on his picture during meditation. The blessings of the Medicine Buddha are prayed for to cleanse negative karma and lessen sentient creatures' suffering. 

The practice of "Menla," as it is called in Tibetan Buddhism, consists of prayers, meditations, and rituals honoring the Medicine Buddha. This practice is frequently utilized in conjunction with traditional medical treatments since it is considered to help those in need find healing and relief.

In summary, the Medicine Buddha is a critical figure in East Asian Buddhist traditions and represents compassion and healing. His significance in Buddhism is influenced by his history, qualities, and related stories, among other things. On their spiritual path, people seeking both bodily and spiritual well-being continue to find peace, hope, and inspiration from the Medicine Buddha.