Maitreya: Not coming any time soon
It is said that Maitreya will be the next Buddha to appear in the world, but that Maitreya won't appear until Shakyamuni Buddha's teaching has been completely forgotten and has disappeared. Since we won't be around to see this future appearance of the next Buddha, why have a festival dedicated to Maitreya? The talk discusses a number of aspects of the teachings regarding Maitreya.
This talk was given at the Festival of Maitreya on the 1st of January 2026.
The photo below shows the statue of Maitreya which was on the main altar for the festival. Maitreya sits on a raised surface, with one foot lowered in order to step into the world.
The photo below is of the statue of Hotei which is mentioned and described during the talk. In one hand Hotei holds a 'fly-whisk' which is very similar to the fountain sceptre carried by the celebrant during the festival ceremony. In his other hand he holds a circular object, the jewel of enlightenment, which Hotei holds up higher than himself.
Duration: 24:17.