Mogao Cave 420: Illustration of the Lotus Sutra - Universal Gateway Chapter - Avalokitesvara Rescuing People from Danger

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Sui dynasty

This illustration of the “Universal Gateway Chapter” of the Lotus Sutra is on the lower right of the east slope on the truncated pyramidal ceiling. Two figures are shown being swept away down a river. Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva stands beneath a canopy on the left bank and extends an arm out in rescue. Another person upstream has joined palms and wades to safety while reciting the Bodhisattva’s name, as described in the sutra. To the left, another river is shown with ferries carrying passengers across. A raksasa leaps between the ferries while monsters surface from the waters with open jaws as if to attack the boats. Although not pictured here, the sutra states that Avalokitesvara will rescue these passengers if they call upon the Bodhisattva for assistance.