ORIGIN: Buddhist
TYPE: Generic name for a group of deities.
INFORMATION: These are thought to be a syncretization of Hindu and Buddhist deities and include such gods as Siva, Visnu, and others which have come to be defined as forms of the primeval buddha or Dhyanibuddha. The lokesvara are usually represented by a small figure, identified as Adibuddha or Amitabha, which rests on the head of the main statue. Also a group name for the many forms of the Buddhist deity Avalokitesvara.