The blue-colored buddha of healing, commonly known as Medicine Buddha, is usually depicted holding an alms bowl out of which appears a sprig of myrobalan (harītakī), a Himalayan plant said to have great powers to heal and bestow longevity. He is believed to have the power to cure all diseases and to bring peace and prosperity for those who practice with faith.
Thangkas overflow with symbolism and allusion. Because the art is explicitly religious, all symbols and allusions must be in accordance with strict guidelines laid out in Buddhist scripture. The artist must be properly trained and have sufficient religious understanding, knowledge, and background to create an accurate and appropriate thangka.
This hand-painted Thangka from Nepal is created entirely without the use of stencils.
