Enlightened Image of Compassion — 1000-armed Avalokiteshvara

with Andy Weber

Wednesday, April 16, 2025
7:00pm – 9:00pm PDT (Pacific Daylight Time)
in person at the center

Program Category: Special Program

By registering for this event, you understand that the sessions may be recorded and published in the public domain (such as YouTube), and consent to this process.

Join us for an inspiring exploration of Tibetan Buddhist art as we delve into its rich symbolism. In this engaging talk, master thangka painter Andy Weber will guide us through the profound symbolism of 1000-armed Avalokiteshvara (Tibetan: Chenrezig), the embodiment of all the Buddhas’ compassion.

According to legend, Avalokiteshvara, the most famous patron deity of Tibet, took a vow in front of Amitabha Buddha never to abandon his work to liberate all sentient beings from samsara. After eons of effort, he looked upon his achievements and felt disheartened. In his anguish, his body shattered into 1000 pieces. In response to his cry, Amitabha transfigured Avalokiteshvara’s head into ten, placed a wisdom eye in each hand, and set himself and Vajrapani (the aspect of skilful means) on top.

This talk will deepen your insight into the rich symbolism woven into Tibetan Buddhist art, enhancing your personal visualization and meditation practice. As Lama Zopa Rinpoche states in “The Power of Mantra”:

As the embodiment of all the buddhas’ compassion, one aspect is simply not enough to lead all sentient beings — each with their different propensities and personalities — to enlightenment. Some beings are able to subdue their minds more quickly through the outer manifestations of Chenrezig with four arms, whereas for others the thousand-arm Chenrezig is more effective. It is said there are 108 names for Chenrezig, which means there are that many aspects. Depending on a sentient being’s karma, the aspect that suits that being will manifest to help them generate compassion, wisdom, and all the other realizations of the path to enlightenment.

All are welcome to explore the world of Tibetan symbolism.

1000-armed Chenrezig by Andy Weber — 1000-armed Chenrezig, © Andy Weber 1990

The artist Andy Weber spent seven years living and studying the iconographical art of Tibetan Buddhism under the guidance of accomplished masters in India and Nepal. His unique style of authentic images for visualization are highly respected not only by the growing number of Western Buddhists but also by Tibetan Lamas of all traditions, many of whom have commissioned his work. His thangka paintings, i.e. Tibetan scroll paintings, can be seen in Buddhist centres and temples throughout the world including the Potala Palace in Lhasa and his images have become well known and popular through numerous publications. With over 35 years of experience Andy Weber and his students offer their artwork, their services, and their experience to the wider Dharma community.

His art and teaching schedule is available on his website: andyweberstudios.com

All our Dharma teachings and events are offered on a dana (generosity) basis — in the spirit of giving freely, just as the Buddha taught. This is a beautiful opportunity to support the teachings and open your heart through generosity.

There is no charge to attend, and no one is turned away. While teachings are free, your support helps keep the Center running and makes these precious teachings available to others. We have included suggested donation amounts to help guide your offering.

Ordained sangha are warmly welcome to attend free of charge.

Thank you for joining in this shared act of support. We rejoice for you.

1000-armed Avalokiteshvara

Registration