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The Buddhist Universe
The front of this headless sculpture shows a conceptual map of the Buddhist universe, with the Six Realms of Existence divided into bands. Start at the top of the Buddha's chest and look down to the bottom hem of his garment. Scenes are filled with divinities, jealous gods (ashuras), humans, animals, spirits, and denizens of hell. Just above hell sits Yama, judge of the dead. He gestures to send some upward while others descend to hell below. The theme of the Six Realms is associated with Vairochana, the Cosmic Buddha, the generative force behind all phenomena. |