She Who Hears The Cries Of The World

Quan Yin is the pre-eminent goddess in all of Asia. You find her in China, Korea, Japan, Vietnam, Burma, Thailand and other countries.

In the Buddhist tradition, she is the Celestial Bodhisattva of Compassion. A bodhisattva is someone who does spiritual practice with the goal of achieving full enlightenment, but just before she arrives at that point, she makes the decision not to receive full enlightenment until the rest of the world has as well. Then she steps into the world and works to alleviate suffering and to awaken beings to their true nature.

According to legend, Quan Yin was about to enter heaven but paused on the threshold as the cries of the world reached her ears.

Quan Yin is known to be a protector of children. She is often portrayed with a child in her arms, near her feet, or on her knees, or with several children around her. For this reason, and for her compassionate, nurturing nature, I consider her as the Mother aspect of the Goddess...as well as a Saviour archetype.

Invoking Kuan Yin

As I look upon you

O Blessed Kuan Yin

I am renewed with your light

On the Wind I feel your strength

With the falling of the rain I am cleansed

By the Sun I bathe in your Spirit

With the Moon I feel your Wisdom and Power

Mother of Compassion

Who hears the cries of all hearts

In reverence I call upon you

To be with me this day...as always.

All Blessings Be. )O(