luohans

Luohans, or Luohan, are revered figures in Buddhist tradition, particularly in East Asian Buddhism. In Chinese, luóhàn translates to arhat, one who has achieved final awakening and is liberated from the cycle of birth and death, yet who remains as a living example of the path for practitioners. The concept originates in early Buddhist texts and is shared with the Theravāda notion of arahant, though iconographic and devotional emphasis varies in Mahayana contexts.

In China and other parts of East Asia, Luohans became a popular subject for sculpture and painting. They are commonly understood as enlightened disciples of the historical Buddha who, through severe ascetic practices and meditation, attained arhatship. The visual tradition often presents the Luohans as a group of powerful, independent figures, each with distinctive attributes, postures, and expressions. The most familiar arrangement in temples is a group of eighteen Luohans known as the Eighteen Luohans, although some temples display sixteen or other configurations.

Role and iconography: Luohans function as protectors of the Dharma, guardians of Buddhist doctrine, and sources of inspiration for lay adherents. Their legends emphasize moral discipline, wisdom, and perseverance. In art, the attributes associated with each Luohan—staffs, bowls, banners, or animal companions—symbolize different virtues or miraculous powers.

In East Asia, the tradition is most prominent in Chinese Buddhism, with parallel versions in Japanese and Korean contexts under the name Rakan or similar terms. Modern depictions appear in temples, museums, and popular culture, reflecting both religious reverence and artistic interest.