- Kuan Yin
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Kuan Yin (Quan Yin), Chinese goddess of mercy
Kuan Yin, the Chinese Goddess of Mercy, corresponds to the Buddhist Avalokitesvara. Buddhists believe Avalokitesvara manifested himself 333 times for the purpose of saving mankind. He refused Nirvana, making a deliberate choice to remain in this world to help guide others to enlightenment. It is his nature to rush to the aid of those who are in distress and need his help. In times of danger, he is the one to be invoked. His mantra is Om Mani Padme Hum.
When the worship of Avalokitesvara was introduced into China in the 1st century A.D., he evolved into the feminine Kuan Yin. She retains the same qualities of being one to whom all can appeal for aid and compassion. Quanyin is sometimes represented with a child in her arms, as it is believed praying to her when desiring offspring can be helpful. Often she is shown on or with dragons. They help her cross the ocean of suffering.
"Those who seek relief from pains and misfortune turn to the 'Goddess of Mercy'.