In Sanskrit, Avalokiteshvara means 'He who looks down on the suffering of the world.' The Bodhisattva takes many forms to help the faithful and spread his compassion to the world, one of the most important being the 'Khasarpana' or 'Sky-Gliding' form. The youthful deity is placed in a relaxed, approachable posture on a lotus throne flanked by his female consorts, Tara and Bhirkuti, who represent compassion. An image of the Buddha Amitabha appears in his tall matted coiffure. Above are depicted Buddhas of the five directions. A long inscription at the base of the throne identifies the donor and offers wishes for the enlightenment of all beings.