Vajradaka – Deity of Purification
Vajradaka (Main figure)
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(Top to bottom): Vajradaka and Dorje Shugden
Deity: Vajradaka (Sanskrit)
Alternative name: Dorje Kandro (Tibetan)
Vajradaka is a deity of purification and his practice originates from the Chakrasamvara Cycle of Tantras. His ritual involves the use of a brazier in the shape of the deity and several specific meditations involving purification as detailed in his practice text. At a specific point in the ritual, the practitioner inserts black sesame seeds into the mouth of the Vajradaka shaped brazier, which then fall through the body onto burning incense or coal. In the process, the seeds are burnt and turn to smoke, just as the negative karma, diseases and hindrances of the practitioner are destroyed through the visualisation and meditations of the practitioner.
Deity: Dorje Shugden (Tibetan)
Alternative name: Vajra Rudra (Sanskrit)
Dorje Shugden is an emanation of the Buddha of Wisdom, Manjushri. He took the form of a Dharma Protector in order to safeguard the Buddha’s teachings, especially the important teachings on the Middle Way View. Reminiscent of Manjushri’s form, Dorje Shugden carries a meandering sword and rides a snowlion that represents the fearlessness of a fully enlightened Buddha. Furthermore, he carries a jewel-spitting mongoose and a vajra hook to symbolise that he has the tremendous ability to bestow wealth and resources. He has great strength to overcome obstacles of the body, speech and mind, and create suitable conditions for our spiritual practice to flourish.
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A deity of purification from the Vajradaka Tantra . Vajradaka practice is fascinating and unique in which it involves a fire ritual or fire offering technique for purification. Haven’t not heard and come across this, reading this is something new to me. Interesting read. Together with Dorje Shugden Dharma Protector and is an emanation of the Buddha of Wisdom forms a beautiful and powerful thangka to have.
Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.