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The Ruby-Eyed Buddha Image is the only sacred image enshrined on the upper platform of the Shwedagon Pagoda. It is said to have been created by Boe Boe Aung, a master of esoteric practices, on the Full Moon Day of Thadingyut in the Myanmar Year 1154 (October 1, 1792). This Buddha image is believed to have wish-fulfilling power, and during the time of the Burmese monarchy, access to it was restricted for royal princes and brothers by the king, fearing it would lead to internal rebellion. The small statue, around 4 inches in height, was made from a medicinal paste mixed with Mahā royal oil and Mahā royal blood and was placed inside by Boe Boe Aung himself. Due to the medicinal paste used in its creation, it is called the “Sayyoegyi Buddha.”
A ruby was placed on the forehead of the statue, hence the name “Ruby-Eyed Buddha,” and it is believed to grant the fulfillment of prayers.
The Ruby-Eyed Buddha Image is also referred to by various titles, such as:
1. The Great Emerald-Eyed Buddha
2. Sayyoegyi Buddha
3. The Tawagu Wishes-Fulfiling Buddha.
Only male citizens of the Buddhist faith who are 18 years or older are permitted to worship this image, following prescribed rules. For women and other devotees who cannot access it, the trustees of the Shwedagon Pagoda have arranged for worship to be conducted via large display screens placed at the four cardinal points around the pagoda.