Alex igy.com9/13/04


Same thing - depends on a translator. The first Character Guan is to listen,
the second Yin - sound(s). Since listening imply sounds, I translated the
way I did. I have seen a translation "Listening to the sounds of the world".
As you remember Avalokiteshvara postponed his (in China her) ascent to the
state of Buddha until he(she) helps all she/he can help. So he/she listens
to the problems of the poor and sick and helps them.

The sine qua non of BS's, me thinks. Me, I'm going to hell in a handbasket
for less altruistic considerations. I'll see who could use a hand down there
though while I'm at it. Seriously, I had never heard that translation out of
the Chinese tradition. Thanks.

That also allows to translate Guan Yin as "The one who listens to the
prayers".
Wen Yan (ancient Chinese literary language) allows lot of flexibility, as a
matter of fact it is a part of its mechanics.

Yes, indeed you are right. I read a sutra once myself. Didn't like it
though. Speaking of which, I had oral surgery recently and my stitches came
out. Dental appointment Wednesday. Puts a damper on tea, but I wouldn't let
a little thing like that stop me.

Misha/Michael/M