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Maitreya Buddha is the future Buddha. According to old Buddhist scripts he will come to earth in human form 4,000 years after the disappearance of Shakyamuni Buddha, the historical Buddha.
Although there are roughly 1.500 more years to go until Maitreya's term will come, he is not sitting around idle. He is warming up and collecting some more experience as a Bodhisattva.
Maitreya - the Future Buddha
In Buddhist arts and crafts Maitreya is shown in sitting or standing position. He is decorated with rich ornaments and usually a crown. Maitreya is generally acknowledged by all directions of Buddhism including Hinayana, the early type of Buddhism.
In the Tibetan language Maitreya is called Jampa.
Tushita Heaven
Maitreya's waiting and preparation area for his future mission as a Buddha on earth is called Tushita Heaven. From here he operates as a Bodhisattva. Tushita Heaven is a kind of parking space between the earth and Nirvana, the enlightenment and ultimate bliss.
Maitreya Gallery
Dieter Wanczura, September 2010.
