This four-armed Manjushri statue before us hails from the lineage of Zha Temple, distinct from mere stylistic representations, evidenced by the Qing Dynasty inscriptions behind its lotus pedestal, ensuring a clear and orderly lineage. While compact in size, its craftsmanship is exceptionally refined, truly befitting of Zha Temple's legacy. Manjushri Bodhisattva, often revered as the chief among the Eight Great Bodhisattvas, symbolizes Buddha's wisdom incarnate—a personification of intellect.
In Tibetan Buddhism, Manjushri appears in various forms and attributes, each serving distinct spiritual functions, with the four-armed Manjushri embodying exceptional attributes. Known as 'Swift Manjushri,' he is celebrated for his swift wisdom. This depiction features Manjushri adorned with a five-leafed crown, intricately carved with large central leaves inset with turquoise—a breathtaking detail. His slightly exposed curly hair is elegantly tied up, adorned with a jewel-inlaid bun at the crown, with the remaining hair styled into two large braids cascading over his shoulders, a distinctive feature. U-shaped ribbons flutter beside his ears, adorned with large circular earrings. Manjushri's finely arched eyebrows meet at the temples, rare with a square formation, his gently lowered eyes exuding warmth, gazing compassionately upon all beings.
His nose connects seamlessly with his brows, petite and straight, lips gently pursed; his cheeks full and elastic, his countenance dignified and benevolent. A gentle smile graces his lips, emanating inner tranquility and serenity. Broad shoulders taper to a slender waist, his physique supple and muscular. Adorned with necklaces and long chains, his lower body wears a tightly fitted skirt, its folds cascading gracefully over the pedestal; adorned with waistbands and chains, his hands and feet are also adorned with anklets. Adornments throughout his attire—crown, earrings, beads, sashes, necklaces, and bracelets—are all set with turquoise, enhancing the statue's resplendent coloration. His right hand wields a sword, slicing through the air, symbolizing the sword of wisdom severing all attachments and entanglements. His left hand forms the teaching gesture at his chest.
His other pair of hands holds a bow and arrow, his feet in the vajra posture seated upon a lotus moon disc. The double-layered circular lotus pedestal, robust and weighty, is adorned with beaded motifs along its upper and lower edges, with slender, full petals symmetrically arranged around its circumference, exemplifying meticulous craftsmanship far beyond ordinary comparison.
