Her name means "she who listens to the sounds (suffering) of the world."

Kuan Yin, revered throughout Asia for thousands of years, is the Chinese goddess of infinite mercy and compassion.

In the Buddhist tradition, she is an aspect of Avalokitesvara, the bodhisattva who sprang from one of the Buddha's tears. She once took the form of Miao Shan, a woman who was spurned by her father for refusing to marry. Later Miao Shan sacrificed both arms and legs in order to heal her father.

Her appeal is particularly widespread because she gives assistance in this world. She provides the earthly blessings of children, health, and long life and rescues people from drowning, lightning, and poverty. She is particularly a protector of women.

Kuan Yin is a symbol of the unlimited compassion each of us can have for ourselves. No matter what the situation, it is possible to treat ourselves with mercy and love.

Text by Michael Babcock from GODDESS KNOWLEDGE CARDS, Susan Eleanor Boulet Trust. Text by Michael Babcock. Published by Pomegranate, Box 6099, Rohnert Park, California 94927