Hand Made Copper Alloy in Oxidation Finish 8.5" Amitabha Buddha / Opame Statue

Amitabha Buddha / Opame Statue

 Amitabha – The Buddha of Infinite Light

According to the Larger Sutra of Immeasurable Life, the magnificence of Amitabha surpasses that of all other great beings, thus he is known as the Buddha of all the Buddhas. Buddha Shakyamuni once said of Amitabha, "The majestic glory of his light could not be exhaustively described if I praised it continuously, day and night, for the period of one Kapala."

Amitabha dwells in a pure celestial realm, created via the power of his infinite merit accumulated over countless lifetimes as a Bodhisattva. His light shines brilliantly from this celestial realm, pervading the entire universe. According to the Sutra, if sentient beings encounter his light, their defilements are removed; if they see his light, they are relieved and freed from affliction. At the end of their lives, beings who have faith in Amitabha reach emancipation, as he gives them rebirth in his Pure Land. And as Shakyamuni explains, "Sentient beings who are born in that Buddha-land all reside among those assured of nirvana."

Gestures and Attributes

Amitabha is depicted in Dhyana Mudra, the gesture of meditation, with both palms face up and lying in his lap. His right hand, resting on top, symbolizes the state of enlightenment, while his left hand, resting below, represents the world of appearance. Thus, Amitabha's posture expresses his mastery over the world of appearance through enlightenment, and signifies the enlightened state of mind for which samsara and nirvana are one. In some representations, he holds the traditional begging bowl of an ordained Buddhist monk. The bowl is filled with amrita, the elixir of awakening and immortality, and symbolizes Amitabha's infinite openness and receptivity toward all sentient beings.

About this Sculpture

This statue of Amitabha Buddha, also known as Opame, exudes a captivating charm and profound spiritual elegance. Handcrafted from copper alloy and treated with an oxidation process, it radiates a warm and inviting aura.

Amitabha is depicted seated in serene meditation on a delicately carved lotus base, embodying calm majesty and inner joy. His flowing robes feature intricate carvings of flowers, leaves, and vines, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship.

The lotus base is equally detailed, with its back adorned by a hand-carved pair of deer guarding the dharma wheel. This imagery symbolizes the Buddha's teachings and their universal appeal, bringing a deeper connection to the piece.

The oxidation finish enhances the statue's sensuous appeal, imbuing it with a timeless and tranquil essence. It invites the viewer to pause, reflect, and leave worldly concerns behind.

This remarkable sculpture is the work of master artisans from the Shakya clan in Patan, Nepal. These artisans carry forward a centuries-old tradition of creating sacred art for temples and monasteries. Their unparalleled skill and dedication ensure that each piece is a unique and soulful masterpiece.

Whether as an object of devotion or a centerpiece of artistic beauty, this Amitabha Buddha statue inspires meditation and spiritual reflection. It serves as a bridge between tradition and the timeless quest for inner peace.