The Godess of Mercy By Kathleen Dutton

Guan yin (觀音)

The goddess of mercy

Oh Sister

Oh brother

Oh infinity

Oh guide us home.

Compassion to teach

that song … I heard it

In your heart spilling

the truth on surrender

and acceptance.

Words and image by Kathleen Dutton

The goddess of Mercy In Chinese mythology, Guan yin (觀音) is the goddess of mercy and considered to be the physical embodiment of compassion. She is an all-seeing, all-hearing being who is called upon by worshipers in times of uncertainty, despair, and fear. Guan yin is originally based on the bodhisattva Avalokiteśvara.

Evolved in Tibet into the female buddha Kuan Yin. The main mantra associated with Avalokitesvara is the six-syllable mantra “Om Mani Padme Hum.” This mantra literally means, “Hail to the jewel in the lotus!”