Mayadevi

Mayadevi (Queen Maya): The Sacred Mother Who Gave Birth to the Buddha

Mayadevi is the mother of Siddhartha Gautama, the historical Buddha. She belonged to the Koliya clan and was married to Suddhodana, the ruler of the Shakya clan. According to traditional Buddhist accounts, she gave birth to Siddhartha in the sacred grove at Lumbini. Tragically, Mayadevi passed away shortly after the birth, seven days later, as per tradition, and was reborn in the heavenly realm.

Iconography and Symbolism

• Depicted Standing Under a Sal Tree, Giving Birth: In traditional Buddhist art, Mayadevi is often shown standing under a sal tree, holding a branch overhead, symbolizing the miraculous birth of the Buddha in Lumbini. 
• Youthful and Noble Appearance: Mayadev is often portrayed as a graceful, noble queen, reflecting her royal lineage and her auspicious role as the birth mother of the future Buddha. 
  
• Symbol of Purity, Virtue, and Spiritual Merit: Her name “Māyā” (often translated as “illusion” or “creative power”) carries connotations of profound spiritual significance; as mother of the Buddha, she embodies purity, moral virtue, and the fulfillment of deep spiritual merit across lifetimes. 
  
• Connection to Sacred Birthplace: Artistic depictions often link her to the sacred site of Lumbini, reinforcing the significance of birthplace and origin in the Buddha’s life story.

Why Choose a Mayadevi Statue?

• Honouring the Roots of Buddhism: A Mayadevi statue reminds practitioners of the Buddha’s origin, honoring the lineage and sacred beginnings of Buddhist teaching.
• Symbol of Purity, Virtue & Compassionate Birth: Her story reflects purity, virtue, and the sacred nature of life, qualities that can inspire compassion, respect for life, and moral integrity in daily living.
• Connection to the Sacred Site of Lumbini: For those connected to Buddhist heritage, especially in Nepal, having her statue evokes the spiritual and historic significance of Lumbini, the Buddha’s birthplace.
• Inspiration for Gratitude, Humility, and Respect for Life: As the Buddha’s mother, Mayadevi represents maternal love, sacrifice, and the precious gift of life, encouraging gratitude, humility, and reverence for all beings.
• Bridge Between Past and Present for Practitioners: Her representation serves as a living link to ancient Buddhist history, reminding modern practitioners of the timeless continuity of Dharma.