Guanyin is a common Chinese name for the Bodhisattva associated with compassion, also known as Avalokiteśvara. The name is short for Guanshiyin, which translates to "[The One Who] Perceives the Sounds of the World." While originally regarded as male in Indian Buddhism, the figure has been more commonly depicted as female in China and much of East Asia since approximately the 12th century. Due to various sociogeographical factors, Guanyin may also be historically represented as genderless or androgynous.
The attainment of Buddhahood by Guanyin is celebrated on the 19th day of the sixth lunar month. Beyond Buddhism, the figure has been incorporated into other religious traditions, including Taoism and Chinese folk religion.