Who Should You Meet First?
There are many bodhisattvas and protectors. You do not need to remember them all at once. Follow the order below; getting to know five of them first is enough.
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First: Shakyamuni Buddha
He is the founder of Buddhism, and all the teachings come from him. Before any practice, one first pays homage to him. Getting to know Buddhism starts with him.
Second to fourth: the Three Protectors
In Tibet these three bodhisattvas are known together as the Three Protectors (Lords of the Three Families). Each stands for one of the three qualities needed to become a Buddha:
| Bodhisattva | Stands for | Easy-to-spot features |
|---|---|---|
| Avalokiteshvara (Chenrezig) | Compassion | White, four arms, palms joined at the chest |
| Manjushri | Wisdom | Orange, right hand raising a sword |
| Vajrapani | Power | Blue-black, wrathful form, right hand raising a vajra |
Fifth: Green Tara
"Tara" means "the one who rescues." Green Tara's right foot is stretched forward, as if she were ready to rise at any moment and go help someone. That is why people say she is "the swiftest to rescue." In Tibet, almost everyone knows how to recite her mantra.
After that, follow your own needs
| What is most on your mind | Who to meet first |
|---|---|
| Health | Medicine Buddha (Bhaishajyaguru) |
| Long life | Amitayus, White Tara, Ushnishavijaya (Namgyalma) |
| Study, wisdom | Manjushri, Sarasvati (Yangchenma) |
| Confession, letting go of the past | Vajrasattva |
| The means to live | Yellow Jambhala, Vasudhara |
| For elders, for those who have died | Amitabha, Kshitigarbha |
| Obstacles in practice | Six-Armed Mahakala and other protectors |
Traditionally, people pray to these Buddhas and bodhisattvas for the corresponding help. While praying, one also learns the quality each of them stands for. That is the real point of getting to know them.
No need to hurry
The three yidams (meditational deities), Guhyasamaja, Chakrasamvara, and Yamantaka (Vajrabhairava), and the various protectors can be left for later and met gradually. Becoming familiar with the first five is already a very good beginning.
At a glance
