Kuan Shih Yin, the compassionate Goddess whose full title is She-Who-Hearkens-to-the-Cries- of-the-World. Her tender face and graceful figure are widespread and she is certainly one of the most popular deities in the Chinese religion. To most, she is seen as a goddess, mother figure, friend, guide, creator, and protector. Images of her can be found in homes, temples, and within thousands of shrines and grottoes beside roads and shaded pools. In times of sickness and trouble, Kuan Yin is the first to be called for aid. Women desiring children pray for her assistance. Like a wise and loving parent, she never punishes, but gently guides her followers on to the right path. Devotees claim to feel her nearness and many have declared seeing her in person. Her power extends far and wide as the beloved personification of compassion.
But who is this Chinese Goddess of Mercy and Love?
Her origins exist in the history and religion of China. Initially she was known
as the male Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara. But slowly, through the combining of
legends and her Tibetan originators, she
became the Kuan Yin depicted today. This goddess surpasses all religious boundaries. One can see her in Taoist and Buddhist temples, in the Shintoism of Japan, and within popular religion; even Christianity has an understanding of her significance. Touching all aspects of the life of the people whether in their daily routines or in meditations and religion, Kuan Yin is and always will be an intricate part of the society and religion of China. But regardless of her origins or use, the very presence of her likeness touches the heart.