Visions of Enlightenment
USC Pacific Asia Museum
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Buddha Maitreya: A bodhisattva who will come in the future and save the world from lawlessness. He will be enthroned by Buddha Shakyamuni as the next Buddha. "Maitreya" means benevolence and friendship. In China, Maitreya is often depicted as the Laughing Buddha, who promises prosperity and happiness.