LACMA

Have you ever helped someone who was feeling sad? This is a wooden sculpture of Jizo (pronounced Jee-zoh) who is a bodhisattva (pronounced bow-dee-saht-fah) in the Buddhist religion. A bodhisattva is a being who helps others on their spiritual paths. Jizo is famous for his great compassion and power to help people in difficult situations. Notice his expression. His face looks calm and his eyes look almost closed like he is deep in thought.

Jizo is one of the most popular bodhisattvas in Japan. He is always depicted as a Buddhist monk with a shaven head and simple robes. But there are several clues that he is a bodhisattva, such as his long earlobes and the round jewel in the center of his forehead called a third eye. Buddhist figures are often shown standing or sitting on lotus flowers. The lotus is a special symbol in Buddhism—it is something pure and beautiful that has risen above murky water, symbolizing overcoming difficult situations. Another clue is the small round object in his left hand. This is a wish-fulfilling jewel, a symbol of Jizo's power to answer people's prayers.

In Japan, Jizo is known as a special protector of children. He cares for all living creatures, even bugs. His right hand usually holds a rattling cane that is now missing. The noise from his cane warns away small creatures as he is walking so that he does not step on them by accident!

Think of a time that you acted in a kind or compassionate way to help someone in a difficult situation. Who did you help and what did you do?

You can see this sculpture and other Buddhist art when you visit the Pavilion for Japanese Art at LACMA. Or visit LACMA's website to learn more about Jizo and other bodhisattva images.