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