Bodhisattva Guan Yin, which means the “observer of sounds,” is also known as Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara. A Bodhisattva is someone who aims to become a buddha and at the same time vows to help all other beings reach buddhahood.

 Guan Yin Bodhisattva vows to listen for the cries of any beings who are in danger or distress and immediately comes to their rescue when they single-mindedly chant the Bodhisattva’s name. With the unconditional compassion and unwavering resolution to help all beings, Guan Yin is able to access the power of the pure mind to manifest a thousand hands and eyes, and to show up in 32 different bodies. For example, Guan Yin can show up as a man, a woman, a monk, a nun, a statesman, the wife of a statesman, a young boy or a young girl, to help whoever can be helped by manifesting that character.

 The story of how the Bodhisattva comes to be known as “Guan Yin” and how he vows to liberate all beings from suffering is described in “The Universal Gateway Chapter” of the Lotus Sutra.

 In a Guan Yin Ceremony, participants sincerely chant the “Universal Gateway Chapter” and make prostrations to open our hearts to learn from Guan Yin and care for ourselves as well as all beings with compassion.

*Please note: the Sutra will be recited in Chinese; English transliteration (pinyin) of the liturgy will be provided.