Mahabodhi Buddha
Om muni Muni Mahamuni Shakyamuni Ye Svaha
Homage to the Great Sage Shakyamuni
This sacred image of the Buddha, carved in the tenth century during the reign of the Pala kings, was for centuries a central focus of devotion for pilgrims who worshiped in the Mahabodhi Temple at Bodh Gaya.
Later invasions disrupted Buddhism in northern India; the temple was abandoned and its images suffered from neglect. Now restored and once again honored by pilgrims who gather here from all parts of the world, the temple and its sacred images have been revitalized.
At the place where the Buddha was enlightened, they stand as beacons of knowledge and compassion, broadcasting from the most holy place blessings of harmony and peace to beings everywhere." -back description
"One is never satiated to behold such an image, and has no desire to go
and behold another. Even people with little faith, when standing in front of the image,
felt it impossible not to shed tears."
-Dharmasvamin, 13th Century Tibetan Pilgrim
