A Bodhisattva is somebody who is on the path to enlightenment, but has not yet reached it. According to some definitions, Bodhisattvas are qualified to enter nirvana, but have chosen not to, because of their desire to remain on earth and help others on their own journeys to overcome suffering and attain enlightenment. In Early Buddhism, the term was used to refer to the Buddha in the period of his life before he reached nirvana. Different Buddhist schools now hold varying definitions of the term; within Theravada Buddhism, Bodhisattvas are rare individuals who have both made a resolution to become a Buddha and had confirmation from a living Buddha that this will happen. However, within Mahayana Buddhism, a Bodhisattva is anyone who has the quality of bodhicitta: a mind (‘citta’) directed towards enlightenment (‘bodhi’), or a wish to attain Buddhahood for the good of all sentient beings. According to this understanding, everyone has the opportunity to become a Bodhisattva.

This Bodhisattva is seated in a full lotus position on a decorated platform. He is heavily adorned with large earrings, an elaborate headdress, and chains hanging down over his chest. He wears a ribbon around each wrist, and adornments protrude up and outwards from his shoulders. Bodhisattvas are often represented with elaborate clothing and adornment. This contrasts with depictions of the Buddha, which emphasise his renouncement of earthly riches by portraying him clothed in plain robes. This figure’s serene expression, with eyes almost fully closed, can be seen to represent the serene state of enlightenment which Bodhisattvas are aiming to achieve. Both of his hands are forming a variation of the Vitarka mudra, with the thumb meeting the middle finger. His right hand lies in his lap and his left hand is held outwards at around shoulder height, with the palm facing towards his right. The Vitarka mudra is a gesture associated with discussion and teaching, and is often used in depictions of Bodhisattvas.