Concept:
In Buddhist tradition,
Maitreya is regarded as the future Buddha who will appear on earth to renew the Dharma after the teachings of Gautama Buddha have declined. He is currently believed to reside in the
Tushita Heaven, a celestial realm where Bodhisattvas await their final birth.
Step 1: Understand the role of a future Buddha.
A future Buddha is one who is destined to attain enlightenment and teach the Dharma in a future age.
Step 2: Identify the correct figure.
Maitreya is specifically mentioned in Buddhist texts as the Bodhisattva residing in Tushita Heaven awaiting his descent to earth.
Step 3: Analyze the options.
- Avalokiteshvara – Bodhisattva of compassion
- Maitreya – future Buddha (correct)
- Manjushri – Bodhisattva of wisdom
- Amitabha – Buddha associated with the Pure Land