The Reality Observant Bodhisattva and the Heart Sutra Woodblock

ARTISANRY


Gate, gate, pāragate, pārasaṃgāte, bodhi svāhā!
揭諦揭諦波羅揭諦波羅僧揭諦菩提薩婆訶!
Gone gone, gone beyond, gone utterly beyond, enlightenment hail!

The woodblock of Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva and the Heart Sutra is a unique and spiritually significant artwork. Created over the course of several months with meticulous craftsmanship and dedication, this woodblock is not just a traditional handicraft but also serves as a medium for spreading Buddhist teachings and fostering connections with the Dharma.

Exquisite Design and Craftsmanship

The woodblock is entirely hand-carved on a 25 x 50 cm wooden slab, showcasing extraordinary attention to detail. Its composition is carefully arranged and rich with meaning:

  • The upper section: This features an image of the Reality Observant Bodhisattva (i.e. Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva), symbolizing compassion and wisdom. The radiating seed syllable from the crown signifies the six realms of existence, serving as a reminder of enlightenment and liberation.
  • The lower section: This includes the complete text of the Heart Sutra in classical Sino script– one of the most important scriptures in Buddhism. The text was written by the Venerable Master at Định Thành Temple himself, imbuing the work with profound spiritual and traditional value.

Through this work, the woodblock printing tradition – a long-standing cultural heritage – is preserved and promoted in the modern era.

The Journey of Sharing the Artwork

At the end of 2020, with the approval of the Venerable Master, Nam Ngọc Hiên printed nearly 200 prints from this woodblock. These prints were distributed widely as gifts to the community to welcome the Tân Sửu Lunar New Year in 2021. Each print is not only a piece of art but also a spiritual gift, bringing peace and blessings to those who receive them.

The artisan at Nam Ngọc Hiên has poured dedication and passion into the woodblock artwork of The Reality Observant Bodhisattva and the Heart Sutra as part of the effort to spread the Dharma. It is hoped that the prints created from this woodblock will continue to disseminate meaningful values and bring auspicious blessings to the community.

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