AVATARS

In the pure study of the Tao, personified deities are not necessary. However, many variants of religious Taoism offer large pantheons of gods. Some have adapted Buddhas and Bodhisattvas to represent the Tao; some have incorporated figures from folk religions and local legends. The Tao seems to range from no gods to many gods.

Certainly there are those who regard Taoist deities as similar to mythological figures like Zeus, Athena and Apollo, but this only part of the picture. As Tao cultivators advance in their understanding, they begin to see these deities not as supernatural entities but as symbols. Each deity serves as an avatar of particular virtues, so that once you learn the essence and the lessons, it becomes a reminder for a quick connection to the virtues you wish to cultivate.

The Guan Yin Bodhisattva is a great example of this. Her essence is kindness and compassion. Whenever we are called upon to help others, the image of the Guan Yin reminds us that we can always give more of ourselves. This is how the power of the avatars is meant to be used. In the hands of someone who understands, it is a great way to condition the mind.

The Tao Today

What are the virtues you would like to cultivate or strengthen in yourself? Which avatars would be the best representation to invoke them in your mind? Finding the right one may require some research, but you will find the results worthwhile when you are able to leverage the avatar’s powerful symbolism into your life.

The Tao of Joy Every Day

~ Derek Lin