Mogao Cave 112: Illustration of the Returning Favors Sutra

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Tang dynasty

Located on the north wall, this illustration includes depictions of seven chapters from the Returning Favors Sutra. The stories within these chapters mainly describe the different ways in which Sakyamuni Buddha expressed gratitude toward Buddhas, relatives, and sentient beings in his previous lives. After the Mid-Tang period (756–846), illustrations of this sutra became increasingly common in the Mogao Caves, suggesting the adaptation of Buddhism to Confucianism and social values of that time.
The central image, the Buddha teaching the Dharma, is from the “Introductory Chapter” of the sutra. The mountains surrounded by colorful, windswept clouds above the Buddha represent Vulture Peak. Sakyamuni Buddha is seated in lotus position upon a lotus throne and is flanked by attendant Bodhisattvas. Three canopies hang above the figures. Bodhisattvas, disciples, and heavenly beings gather before the Buddha, making offerings and listening to the Dharma. On a platform below the central figures, a heavenly being dances between groups of musicians playing instruments. Below this, on the left, is a scene from the “Introductory Chapter” in which Ananda meets the son of a brahmin who shows great filial piety. On the right is another scene of filial piety from the Prince Sujata Jataka. In the lower left corner is a depiction of the Jataka of the Golden Lion from the “Chapter on Association with the Wise,” and in the lower right corner is a depiction of the “Chapter on the Bad Prince.” In the upper register on either side of Vulture Peak are scenes from the “Chapter on Debate.”