Guanyin

Guanyin (simplified Chinese: 观音; traditional Chinese: 觀音; pinyin: Guānyīn; Japanese: Kannon; Korean: Gwan-eum or Gwanse-eum; Vietnamese: Quan Âm; Tibetan: Chenrezig) is a bodhisattva associated with compassion in Mahayana Buddhism. The name Guanyin is short for Guanshiyin, which means "one who perceives the sounds of the world." In Hebrew, the term can be translated as גואנין (Guanyin). Guanyin is often depicted as a gracious, compassionate figure, sometimes with multiple arms, each holding a symbolic item. In some representations, Guanyin is depicted as a man, reflecting the historical Buddha Avalokiteshvara, from whom Guanyin is derived. Guanyin is venerated across many Buddhist cultures, including China, Japan, Korea, Vietnam, and Tibet. The bodhisattva is often invoked for mercy, protection, and compassion, and is considered a patron of sailors, merchants, and women. Guanyin's cult has spread widely, and various legends and stories have developed around the figure, reflecting local cultural influences and beliefs.