108 BUDDHA

In Buddhism, the number 108 is considered to be a sacred number and is often associated with the 108 beads on malas (prayer beads) or the 108 prostrations performed during certain rituals. In some traditions, there are 108 different types of Buddhas and Bodhisattva, which are believed to guide and protect practitioners on the path to enlightenment. The 108 Buddhas and Bodhisattva are usually grouped into different categories, such as the "Eight Great Bodhisattva" or the "Twenty-four Protective Deities." These groupings are often based on the specific qualities or attributes that the Buddhas and Bodhisattva are said to embody. One of the most well-known among the 108 Buddhas and Bodhisattva is the "Eight Great Bodhisattva." These include: Manjushri: The bodhisattva of wisdom Avalokiteshvara: The bodhisattva of compassion Ksitigarbha: The bodhisattva of the underworld Maitreya: The future buddha Samantabhadra: The bodhisattva of universal conduct Akasagarbha: The bodhisattva of infinite space Nivarana-Vishkambhin: The bodhisattva of overcoming obstacles Sarvanivarana-Vishkambhin: The bodhisattva of overcoming all obstacles. Another group is the "Twenty-four Protective Deities," which are considered to be powerful protectors of the teachings and practitioners of Buddhism. They are often depicted holding weapons, and other symbols of protection. The 108 Buddhas and Bodhisattva are often invoked through recitation of their names or mantras, visualization practices, and making offerings to statues or images of them. It is believed that by cultivating a connection with these beings, practitioners can receive their blessings and guidance, and increase their own capacity for compassion and wisdom.