Manjushri / Jampelyang – The Bodhisattva of Wisdom
Jampelyang Sculpture: Manjushri / Jampelyang embodies the omniscient wisdom of enlightenment – the wisdom that discerns the true nature of reality. He can discriminate between correct and incorrect views and between beneficial and non-beneficial actions to be taken on one’s spiritual path. He bestows intelligence, knowledge, wisdom, mastery of the teachings, eloquence and memory. His name means “gentle glory” and he is especially revered in Nepal, where he is said to have enabled the founding of civilization in the Kathmandu Valley. Manjushri is also the patron Bodhisattva of the Kadampa (i.e. Gelugpa) order of Tibetan Buddhism, which is famous for its master scholars, called geshes.
Gestures and Attributes
Manjushri’s left hand is in Vitarka Mudra (like shown in this Jampelyang Sculpture), the gesture of teaching and intellectual discussion. This hand also holds the stem of a lotus flower that supports the Prajnaparamita, or Perfection of Wisdom sutra. The flaming sword in his right hand symbolizes the power of discriminating wisdom to cut through ignorance, the root of all suffering. Manjushri / Jampelyang, in this sword-wielding pose, is representative of the courage and exertion needed to realize freedom.
About this Jampelyang Sculpture
This exquisitely crafted statue portrays Manjushri, also known as Jampelyang, with unparalleled beauty and precision. Sculpted from copper alloy using the revered lost wax method and adorned with 24-karat gold gild, it radiates divine elegance. The hand-painted face adds a lifelike quality to the statue, while intricate hand carvings of flowers and winding vines on the robes and base enhance its aesthetic appeal, keeping the Buddhist theme intact. Individually handcrafted in Patan, Nepal, by master artisans of the esteemed Shakya clan, this masterpiece stands as a testament to centuries-old traditions of sacred artistry. These craftsmen, revered as among the best in the world, inherit and uphold ancient metalworking techniques, ensuring the continuation of this revered craft for generations to come.
