An artwork on Galleree from Minneapolis Institute of Art.
About the artwork
Kiba (Jīvaka), the Ninth of the Sixteen Arhats13th - early 14th century
Artist: Japan
seated figure with crossed legs wearing red drape and holding fly whisk; halo around head; figure on R holds candle; palm trees in UR
37 3/4 × 15 3/4 in. (95.89 × 40.01 cm) (image)
68 × 22 1/2 in. (172.72 × 57.15 cm) (mount)
Hanging scroll; ink, color, and gold leaf on silk
hanging scroll
Japan
13th-14th century
Gift of the Clark Center for Japanese Art & Culture
In the tranquil stillness of a small room, a soft breeze carries the whispers of wise teachings. Here, the journey of a steadfast soul unfolds; it's a tale of humble “achievers,” known as rakan in Japan and arhat in the ancient tongue of Sanskrit. These individuals are on a noble quest for “awakening” — a pursuit of enlightenment that promises the serene embrace of nirvana, or salvation from the worldly cycle of suffering.
Imagine a sunlit hillside adorned with two figures. On the right, we meet Kiba, a rakan whose presence alone radiates a sense of tranquility. In his hand, he delicately holds a fly whisk, an elegant symbol of compassion. With each gentle sweep, he chases away the insects flitting about, embodying a profound respect for life in every action. For Kiba, following the sacred Buddhist law meant embracing all forms of existence, ensuring that no creature met harm at his hands.
On the left stands Binzuru, gazing at a magnificent waterfall that cascades down the rocky terrain. Beside him, a serene deer gazes back, their peaceful companionship illustrating the bond that often exists between man and nature. Together, they share a moment of calmness as the water flows, its rhythm echoing the tranquil heartbeats of those who seek deeper truths.
In the world of Hinayana Buddhism, rakan like Kiba and Binzuru are celebrated for their unique journeys. Kiba, though a perfected one who has transcended the endless cycle of birth and rebirth, has not fully embraced the boundless enlightenment of a bodhisattva. Each of them, however, exudes an unwavering serenity that inspires those who encounter their stories.
Their simple yet profound lives remind us that the path to enlightenment is not solely about achieving a lofty goal; it’s also about the gentle way one moves through life, with compassion and awareness at every step. His whisk a tool of kindness, and Binzuru’s tranquil gaze a testament to harmony, these rakan invite us to reflect on our own journeys toward awakening amidst the chaotic beauty of the world.
About the artist
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