Chapter 28: Teaching in Trayastrimsa Heaven｜Preaching to His Mother

After his enlightenment, the Buddha did not forget his mother, Queen Maya, who had passed away seven days after his birth and was reborn in Trayastrimsa Heaven. Out of gratitude, the Buddha ascended to the heavenly realm and preached the Dharma to her, ensuring her liberation.

Gandharan Depictions

In Gandharan reliefs, this scene is often shown with clear vertical composition:

• The Buddha in heaven — seated majestically on a throne, surrounded by celestial beings.
• Maya as a goddess — richly adorned, with hands joined in reverence, listening attentively.
• Gods as audience — Sakra (Indra) and Brahma are frequently depicted, underscoring the universal respect for the Buddha’s teaching.
• Disciples on earth — below, Ananda and other monks look upward, linking heaven and earth.

The layered composition allows sculptors to show two realms within one panel. The Buddha’s enlarged form emphasizes his transcendence.

This theme is often interpreted as the filial dimension of Buddhism: although he became the Enlightened One, the Buddha still expressed gratitude to his mother. Such imagery made Buddhist narratives relatable and emotionally resonant.

The episode symbolizes more than filial piety—it represents the Buddha’s compassion extending beyond worlds. Gandharan reliefs make visible the message that the Dharma transcends the human realm, reaching even the heavens.