Medicine Buddha (Bhaisajyaguru)

The full title of the Medicine Buddha is Bhaisajyaguru Vairocana of Lapis Lazuli Light, the sovereign Buddha of the Eastern Pure Land of Lapis Lazuli Light. According to the *Sutra of the Merits and Vows of the Medicine Buddha*, during his cultivation in past lives, he made the Twelve Great Vows—to eradicate all illnesses and suffering afflicting sentient beings and to ensure that all sentient beings attain their heartfelt aspirations. His two principal attendants—the Sunlight All-Illuminating Bodhisattva on his left and the Moonlight All-Illuminating Bodhisattva on his right—form the triad known as the 'Three Sages of the East'. In Han Chinese Buddhist temples, dedicated Medicine Buddha Halls are commonly established within main temple compounds, enshrining the Seven Medicine Buddhas. Traditionally, devotees recited the *Medicine Buddha Sutra* and lit lapis lazuli lamps for sick relatives to pray for deliverance from calamity and longevity. Revered widely among the populace as the Buddha who heals illness and relieves suffering, his birthday falls on the 30th day of the 9th lunar month; temples across China hold grand Dharma assemblies on this day to offer blessings, drawing large numbers of worshippers and vibrant incense offerings.