• Medicine Buddha: the Healer of Body and Mind

    In the vast array of Buddhist deities, Medicine Buddha, known as Bhaisajyaguru in Sanskrit or Sangye Menla in Tibetan, stands as a radiant symbol of healing and transformation. Revered across Mahayana and Vajrayana traditions, he embodies the power to alleviate physical illness, mental suffering, and spiritual obstacles, guiding practitioners toward wholeness and enlightenment.

    Medicine Buddha is depicted with dark blue skin reminiscent of lapis lazuli, seated in meditation posture on a lotus throne. His right hand is extended downward in the varada mudra (gesture of giving), often holding a myrobalan fruit or arura—a medicinal plant central to Tibetan medicine. His left hand rests in his lap in meditation position, typically holding a bowl filled with healing nectar or medicinal substances. The lapis lazuli color of his body represents the pure dharmadhatu—the boundless sphere of reality—and the wisdom that perceives this ultimate truth. This vibrant blue also symbolizes the purification of negative karma and the healing of emotional and physical illnesses.

    Medicine Buddha

    Medicine Buddha’s essence lies in his role as the enlightened healer, addressing the "three poisons" of ignorance, attachment, and aversion, which are the root causes of all suffering.