This iconographic motif is also named the Saha Triad, as it represents the three leading figures in the Saha world, which in Mahāyāna Buddhism refers to the mundane world, all the existence outside of the Nirvana. In Buddhism, a bodhisattva is any person who is on the path towards Buddhahood, which is the rank or condition of an “awaken one”, a Buddha. The bodhisattva Kṣitigarbha, whose name is translatable in “Earth Treasury”, “Earth Store” or “Earth Womb”, is known for his vow to take responsibility for the instruction of all beings, as well as his oath not to achieve Buddhahood until all hells are emptied. Avalokiteśvara, also named Padmapani, is a bodhisattva who embodies the compassion of all Buddhas. Avalokitesvara is variably portrayed, described and depicted in different cultures as either male or female.
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