It is believed that far in the future (i.e., 5.6 billion years following the death of Shakyamnui Buddha), Miroku Bodhisattva (Bosatsu) will become a Buddha (Nyorai), appearing in this world to save everyone who cannot achieve enlightenment. It is believed that this results in a universal salvation for all sentient beings. Even today, many Buddhists await the return of Miroku based on this belief.
In Japan, Miroku is typically depicted in a seated position. The deity's right-hand finger touches the cheek and the right ankle rests on top of the left leg. This position is called Hanka (半跏). While Bosatsu (Bodhisattva) is typically depicted as having ornaments, because Miroku is believed to return as a Buddha (Nyorai) in the future, it does not wear ornaments when depicted in statuary form.
Maitreya Bodhisattva (弥勒菩薩) is an important bodhisattva in Buddhism, believed to be the future Buddha. He is revered in Buddhism as a symbol of hope, compassion, and the future savior.
Maitreya Bodhisattva is believed to have achieved enlightenment under the Bodhi tree, similar to the historical Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama. However, instead of immediately attaining Buddhahood, he chose to postpone it and remain in the bodhisattva state. He is said to reside in the Tushita Heaven, awaiting the right time to descend to Earth and become the next Buddha, bringing a new era of enlightenment.
In artistic representations, Maitreya Bodhisattva is typically depicted seated, often wearing a crown (Ushnisha) and holding attributes such as a lotus flower or a vase. His image exudes a sense of serenity and benevolence, symbolizing compassion and the spirit of salvation.
The worship of Maitreya Bodhisattva is particularly strong in East Asian Buddhism, including China, Japan, and Korea. Many Buddhist temples and monasteries have altars or statues dedicated to him. Believers hold great hope for his future appearance as the next Buddha, bringing salvation and enlightenment to the world.
Maitreya Bodhisattva's teachings emphasize compassion, hope, and the pursuit of enlightenment. His significance lies in being a beacon of optimism for Buddhists, reminding them of the potential for enlightenment and a brighter future.
In summary, Maitreya Bodhisattva is a crucial figure in Buddhism, representing the future Buddha and symbolizing hope, compassion, and the promise of a better world. His teachings inspire individuals to cultivate compassion and strive for spiritual growth, looking forward to a future era of enlightenment.