Mahasthamaprapta

Western Pure Land, left side
Scene #19, Baodingshan, Dazu (map)

Amitabha (Jp. Amida), the Buddha of the Western Pure Land, has two helpers: Avalokiteshvara and Mahasthamaprapta (Ch. Dashizhi, Jp. Seishi). Mahasthamaprapa is seen here, although without his usual stupa and lotus bud.

Unlike Avalokiteshvara, Mahasthamaprapta never developed an independent cult following; he represents the power and wisdom of Amitabha, as Avalokiteshvara represents the compassion of Amitabha.