Mogao Cave 231: Illustration of the Avatamsaka Sutra

CHINA, Gansu, Dunhuang; Tang dynasty

This mural is located in the center of the north wall within the main chamber. It features scenes of the nine assemblies in which the Avatamsaka Sutra was expounded, as well as an image of the Avatamsaka World. The Avatamsaka assemblies are arranged in three rows of three. The first assembly in the center of the bottom row is the largest. In the middle of the scene, within an ornate pavilion, the Buddha sits in full lotus position on a lotus throne, flanked by two kneeling Bodhisattvas who hold up vases in offering. Outside the pavilion, Bodhisattvas gather to listen to the Dharma and make offerings.
The other eight assemblies are similar to the first. In the center of each, a Buddha sits on a lotus throne within a pavilion, and is surrounded by Bodhisattvas. In the lower register is a representation of the Avatamsaka World, in the center of which is a large lotus with the inner circle composed of a grid pattern. Ponds within each square of the grid contain the giant lotuses that grow in the Sea of Fragrant Water. The lotuses, representing innumerable microcosmic worlds, are symbols of the Pure Land of Vairocana Buddha. Below the mural are four panels further illustrating various chapters of the Avatamsaka Sutra.