Rinchey's Rhapsody

The Four Harmonious Friends, Thuenpa Puen Zhi, is a popular symbol in the Buddhist iconography. One can find paintings of them in the form of murals decorating the walls of temples and monasteries. While some believe that it will bring them peace in the household, others believe that it ensures unity and harmony in the family. It is also a popular subject for thangka paintings. Many are familiar with the story of how the four friends tried to determine who amongst them was the eldest. The story of their respect, cooperation, unity and interdependence is a popular part of the Bhutanese folklore. However, many are not familiar with the subtle significance that the story holds. It is believed that the four friends were Buddha Shakyamuni (Bird), Shariputra or Sheri bu (Rabbit), Maugyalyana or Mon-Gelgi-bu (Monkey) and Kuengao or Ananda (Elephant) in one of their previous lives. Therefore, the enlightenment of Buddha, institution of Buddhism and the turning of the wheel of Dharma in harm