Gemini Thinking
In this illustration, we see Mañjuśrī Bodhisattva, identified by the sword of wisdom and the sutra he holds while riding his traditional lion mount. He addresses an assembly including monastics, lay practitioners, and celestial beings. This scene captures the moment described in the Lotus Sūtra where Mañjuśrī explains the Buddha's intent.
The subtle glow emanating from Mañjuśrī illuminates the listeners, representing the dispersion of "the cloud of doubt" (gimon no kumo - 疑問の雲) mentioned in the verses.
In the lower right, you will find the artist's signature reading "双子座" (Futagoza, meaning Gemini) alongside a red hanko seal containing the katakana "ジェミニ" (Jemini).
The Buddha will remove
Any doubt of those who seek
The teaching of the Three Vehicles.
No question will be left unresolved.
Mañjuśrī declares these verses at the end of Chapter One of the Lotus Sūtra. They remind us how important questions are to what the Buddha teaches. Questions come up throughout the book, and they lead to many important aspects of this Wonderful Dharma. It is important for us to ask questions respectfully whenever we hear a teaching, knowing that we will find an answer.
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