Bhaiṣajyaguru · Sangye Menla · Yaoshi Fo · Yakushi Nyorai
Who is the Medicine Buddha?
The Medicine Buddha is a figure of Mahāyāna Buddhism known by many names: Bhaiṣajyaguru in Sanskrit, Sangye Menla in Tibet, Yaoshi Fo (药师佛) in China, Yakushi Nyorai (薬師如来) in Japan, Yaksa Yeorae in Korea.
He is usually shown seated in meditation, his body blue like lapis lazuli, holding a bowl and sometimes a myrobalan branch. The text devoted to him, the Medicine Buddha Sūtra, describes twelve vows made for the benefit of all beings.
In Japan, many temples are dedicated to him, such as Yakushi-ji in Nara. In Tibet, his figure is closely linked to the medical tradition (Sowa Rigpa).
For some he is a figure of devotion; for others a work of art or a symbol of kindness. This site presents items related to him without taking sides.
This site gives no medical advice. No item shown here treats any condition or replaces the advice of a health professional.
The Medicine Buddha: history and iconographyWhere the Medicine Buddha comes from, how to recognise him and how each tradition depicts him.
Bhaiṣajyaguru, Menla, Yaoshi, Yakushi: the names by countryThe same Buddha has a different name in each language. A short glossary to find your way and search better.