The Buddha ascends to the Thirty-Three Heavens(佛登三十三重天)

This thangka depicts the story of Shakyamuni Buddha ascending to the Tavatimsa Heaven after attaining enlightenment to expound the Dharma to his deceased mother, Queen Maya, and his subsequent return to the human realm after the rainy season retreat.

According to Buddhist scriptures, Queen Maya, mother of the Buddha's founder Shakyamuni, conceived after dreaming of a white elephant entering her womb. Following custom, she journeyed to her maternal home to await Siddhartha's birth. Passing through Lumbinī Garden, she rested beneath a sal tree by the roadside. There, Siddhartha emerged from her right side. Stepping upon seven lotus flowers, he declared, “In heaven and on earth, I alone am the most honored.”

Yet Queen Maya departed this world seven days after his birth, said to have ascended to the Tāvatimsa Heaven.

Siddhartha was subsequently raised by his aunt. Legend holds that after reaching the Tavatimsa Heaven, Queen Maya deeply missed her son. Thus, after attaining enlightenment, Shakyamuni Buddha journeyed to the Tavatimsa Heaven to preach the Dharma for his birth mother. Three months later, he descended the heavenly staircase and returned to the human realm.

On the twenty-second day of the ninth lunar month, the Buddha prepared to return to the human realm. At the center of the scene, a massive celestial ladder connects the earthly realm with the Thirty-three Heavens. Shakyamuni Buddha descends gracefully along the ladder, surrounded by auspicious clouds. Disciples and celestial maidens gather to welcome him, joined by the king, queen, and nobles who have come to pay homage. They stand with utmost reverence, holding flowers, fruits, and various auspicious offerings in their hands.