Important Figures of Tibetan Buddhism
Here is a brief iconographical guide to some of the gods and goddesses of the vast Tibetan Buddhist pantheon as well as important historical figures. It's neither exhaustive nor scholarly, but it may help you to recognise a few of the statues you encounter during your trip. Sanskrit names are given first (with Tibetan names provided in parentheses) as they are generally more familiar to westerners. Tibetan names only are given for historical figures.
BUDDHAS
Sakyamuni (Sakya Thukpa)
The 'Historical Buddha'. Born in Lumbini in southern Nepal in the 5th century BC with the name Gautama, he attained enlightenment under a bo (peepul) tree and his teachings set in motion the Buddhist faith. In mbetan-style representations he is always pictured sitting cross-legged on a lotus flower throne. His hair is dark blue with a halo of enlightenment around his head. Buddha is recognised by 32 marks on his body, including a dot between his eyes, a bump on the top of his head and the Dharma wheel on the soles of his feet. In his left hand he holds a begging bowl, his right hand touches the earth in the 'witness' mudra. He is often flanked by two disciples or bodhisattvas.
Amitayus (Tsepame)
Buddha of Longevity. Like Amitabha he is red and holds his hands in a meditation gesture but he holds a vase containing the nectar of immortality.
Dipamkara (Marmedze)
The "past Buddha', who came immediately before Sakyamuni and spent 100,000 years on earth. His hands are shown in the 'protection' mudra and he is often depicted in a trinity with the Present and Future Buddhas.
Amitabha (Oepagme)
The Buddha of Infinite Light who resides in the Pure Land of the West. The Panchen Lama is considered a reincarnation of this Buddha. He is red, his hands are held together in his lap in a 'meditation' mudra and he holds a begging bow.
Medicine Buddhas (Menlha)
A Medicine Buddha holds a medicine bowl in his left hand and herbs in his right. Often in a group of eight.
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