Ajita the Arhat

长眉罗汉 · 長眉羅漢

Venerable Ajita

Divine Office

Manifesting long eyebrows as a symbol of enduring wisdom-life
Teaching that longevity arises from a compassionate heart
Compassionately protecting the elderly and children
Safeguarding longevity, health, and peace

Origin & Legend

Venerable Ajita is said to have been born with two extraordinarily long white eyebrows. Initially considered physically unattractive, he was rejected and cast out by his parents. Wandering homeless, he encountered the Buddha, who ordained him as a monk. Through diligent cultivation of moral discipline, meditative concentration, and wisdom, he ultimately attained the fruition of an Arhat. After his enlightenment, his white eyebrows grew ever longer, eventually reaching his waist—earning him the reverent title Changmei Luohan (Long-Browed Arhat). In popular belief, he symbolises longevity; his eyebrows sweeping the ground signify an inexhaustible wisdom-life and immeasurable blessings and years. His life exemplifies a profound truth: physical appearance does not hinder spiritual attainment—compassion alone constitutes the most sublime and venerable countenance.