Guanshiyin or Avalokitesvara is the bodhisattva associated with compassion as venerated by East Asian Buddhists; usually as a female. The name Guanyin is short for Guanshiyin which means 'Observing the Sounds (or Cries) of the World'. Some Buddhists believe that when one of their adherents departs from this world; they are placed by Guanyin in the heart of a lotus then sent home to the western pure land of Sukhavati. It is generally accepted (in the Chinese community) that Guanyin originated as the Sanskrit Avalokitesvara; which is her male form. Commonly known in English as the Goddess of Mercy; Guanyin is also revered in Daoism as an Immortal.In Japan; Guanyin is called Kannon. Pictures From Asia Rainer Krack