Phurba- dague du bouddhisme tantrique| obsidian dragons

Phurba- dagger of tantric Buddhism

1- What is a phurba?
The Phurba, known as Kila in Sanskrit, is a dagger used to defeat demons, introduced into Tibetan Buddhism by Padmasambhava. It is a powerful symbol of transmutation of negative energies.

Of Hindu origin under the name of Kila, the Phurba is used by both Buddhists and shamans of the Himalayan regions. Although various explanations on the form of the practices exist, all seem to aim at a fierce protection against harmful spirits and their manifestations. This action can consist of pinning or directing the energy of the invoked divinity by a pointing gesture.


Often made of stone, bone or metal, the Phurba daggers of Tibetan Buddhist temples are distinguished by their three-sided blade. Used in rituals to ward off unwanted spirits, the Phurba acts spiritually by neutralizing demonic forces, sometimes to the point of annihilation, in the hope of reincarnation in more beneficial places. Each element of the Phurba carries a particular meaning.

Who is Padmasambhava?

Phurba- dagger of tantric Buddhism | obsidian dragons


Padmasambhava, literally born from the lotus, is a Buddhist master of the 8th century, probably born during the first quarter of this century, in the Swat valley in Pakistan, also called Guru Rinpoche (“precious master”).
He is considered an enlightened master, an Indian yogi, and a founder of Tibetan Buddhism. Padmasambhava is revered for introducing Tantric Buddhism to Tibet in the 8th century. He is renowned for his miraculous powers, wisdom, and ability to overcome obstacles. Padmasambhava is often depicted with a crown, holding a vajra (thunderbolt) and a bell, symbols of his enlightened nature and compassion.

Vajrakilaya- Dorje Phurba- Purifying Deity of Karma

Phurba- dagger of tantric Buddhism | obsidian dragons

The phurba represents the deity Vajrakilaya associated with the magical dagger phurba or Kila in Sanskrit, symbolizing the sharp point of immutable wisdom facing the power of benevolence.
Vajrakilaya or Vajrakila, Dorje Phurba in Tibetan is a prominent tantric deity in Tibetan Buddhism, embodying the wrathful manifestation of the compassion and wisdom of the Buddhas. This deity is associated with the purification of karma and the destruction of obstacles on the path to enlightenment.
To learn more about Vajrakilaya, I invite you to consult our article dedicated to this god by clicking on this link

This archetype has a very particular yogic use, not being seen simply as an external deity to be worshipped or manipulated in rituals.

The meaning of Vajrakilaya and kila (or phurba in Tibetan):
1) Vajrakilaya of the base:
is none other than the primordially unborn nature of the mind, where the three bodies and the five wisdoms express themselves spontaneously.

2) Varjakilaya of the path:
In spiritual practice, Vajrakilaya is the deity that one visualizes. The phurba is his symbol, representing the transmutation of the three poisons and their liberation into the dharmadhatu (ultimate space). There are four types of phurba:

  1. Rigpa's phurba: symbolizing the nature of the mind.
  2. The phurba of bodhicitta: associated with the union practices of dzogrim, the completion phase.
  3. The phurba of unlimited compassion : expressing the vow to leave no being in suffering.
  4. The phurba material: itself, used as a ritual instrument in spiritual practice.

3) Vajrakilaya of the fruit: Represents the accomplishment of awakening, the primordial wisdom of the mind of all Buddhas
Phurba- dagger of tantric Buddhism | obsidian dragons
---- Exceptional mammoth ivory phurba in our collection ------

2- Origin of Phurba
The Phurba, originating from ancient India, named in Sanskrit Kila, has its roots in Hindu and Tantric ritual practices. In these traditions, it was used as a ritual instrument to pierce obstacles and symbolized victory over negative forces.

The Aghori sect of India uses the kila to create a protective circle by driving bone pegs into the ground and binding them with black thread, a ritual practice known as kilana.
Phurba- dagger of tantric Buddhism | obsidian dragons



3- Composition of a Phurba
The blade
The blade of the dagger symbolizes method, with each of the three sides

representing the three-spirit worlds. The point uniting them all
three to form a harmonious cosmic axis.

In Buddhism, the "three worlds of mind" refer to the three main forms of suffering and delusion that hinder spiritual awakening:

  1. The world of sensuality (kamadhatu): This world is characterized by sensual desire and material pleasures. Beings who reside mainly in this world are dominated by their sense desires and seek happiness through pleasant sensations.

  2. The world of form (rupadhatu): This world is inhabited by beings who have attained deep meditative states and reside in celestial realms or subtle states of existence. Although these beings have transcended sense desires, they remain subject to attachment to forms and meditative states.

  3. The world of non-form (arupadhatu) : This world is populated by beings who have attained even deeper states of meditation, even surpassing the physical form. They reside in states of purely mental existence, free from the limitations of physical form, but are still subject to attachment to mental existence.

The triple-blade design is also meant to simultaneously transform the three poisons of the world into positive energies.
These poisons are ignorance , greed and aggression, which can take a lifetime to overcome in the quest for enlightenment.
Phurba transmutes ignorance into wisdom , greed into generosity and aggression into compassion .

The blade is often seen as indestructible and is lit by fire to consume hatred.

Phurba- dagger of tantric Buddhism | obsidian dragons


Makara:

Phurba- dagger of tantric Buddhism | obsidian dragons
Between the blade and the hilt of the Phurba, there is usually a representation of a mythical creature called a "Makara", a mythical creature frequently depicted in Hindu, Buddhist and Jain art and mythology.
It is described as an aquatic being with a hybrid body, with features combining those of an elephant, a crocodile and sometimes other animals.
In iconography, Makara is often used as ornamentation on temples, sculptures and ritual objects.
It is sometimes regarded as the vehicle or mount of a deity, notably Varuna, the Vedic god of waters.
Makara is also associated with fertility, prosperity and protection from evil forces.

On a phurba, Makara is seen as a guardian, protector, responsible for repelling negative energies and protecting the practitioner from malevolent influences. Makara is also associated with water and purification, thus reinforcing the phurba's symbolism of purification and protection in ritual practices.

The handle:


The top of the handle is often decorated with three wrathful deities: Yamantaka , Amrita Kundalini and Hayagriva.

Yamantaka , embodies the body and the dissolution of hatred. By embodying the body and the dissolution of hatred, Yamantaka brings the strength to overcome negative and destructive emotions, thus promoting pacification of the mind.


Amrita , represents the mind and the dissolution of illusion. Helps to dispel false perceptions and achieve a clearer understanding of reality, thus promoting mental clarity and wisdom.

Hayagriva , symbolizes speech and the dissolution of greed. Offers the power of right communication and liberation from excessive desires, thus promoting authentic verbal expression and mastery of material impulses.

The handle of the Phurba embodies wisdom and can also take the form of an eight-sided bulb, decorated with symmetrical knots at each end. The meanings of the knots vary according to interpretations. Some see it as a symbol of Nirvana contained within, while others believe that the different parts of the knots house the divine domains of several gods.

Phurba- dagger of tantric Buddhism | obsidian dragons


In many depictions, the Phurba dagger is depicted in a simplified form, due to its small size. However, in its three-dimensional form, this tantric dagger is most often adorned with numerous Buddhist symbols, demonstrating its commitment to eradicating evil.

4- Practical Uses of Phurba:
The use of phurba in traditional rituals:

The Phurba also plays a central role in many traditional rituals, specific to Vajrayana Buddhism but also in Himalayan shamanism:

  1. Purification Rituals: The Phurba is used in purification rituals to ward off negative energies and purify sacred space. By planting the tip of the Phurba in the ground or pointing it in different directions, practitioners purify a place of unwanted influences and create an environment conducive to meditation and prayer.

  2. Invocation Ceremonies: In invocation ceremonies, the Phurba is used to invoke and channel the energy of deities and protective spirits. By pointing the Phurba towards the sky or directing it towards the altar, practitioners establish a connection with spiritual forces and solicit their assistance in their spiritual practices.

  3. Protection Rituals: The Phurba is also used in protection rituals to ward off demonic forces and malevolent influences. By drawing protective circles with the tip of the Phurba or using the dagger to seal energy portals, phurba users can protect themselves from negative energies and ensure their spiritual safety.

There are rituals where the Phurba and the Dorje (or Vajra) are used together. These two ritual objects are sometimes associated in the tantric practices of Tibetan Buddhism.

Phurba- dagger of tantric Buddhism | obsidian dragons
---- Dorje in rock crystal, featured in our collection of ritual objects -----
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The Dorje, also known as the Vajra in Sanskrit, is an important ritual symbol in Tantric Buddhism. It represents the indestructible nature of reality and the primordial force of awakening. In its most common form, the Dorje is a scepter- or thunderbolt-shaped object. It is often associated with the Buddha Vajradhara and is used in Tantric rituals to seal spiritual energy, purify obstacles, and direct blessings.
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The Phurba is used to pierce obstacles and neutralize negative forces, while the Dorje is used to symbolize the indestructible nature of reality and to direct spiritual energy.
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In some rituals, the Phurba is used to purify a space or object by symbolically planting the Phurba in the ground or directing it towards the object to be purified, while the Dorje is used to seal the purifying energy and stabilize blessings.
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Phurba and dorje can also be used in ritual dances or meditative visualizations to represent purification and transformation of negative energies into positive energies.
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Use of Phurba in Contemporary Daily Life:
Although Phurba is deeply rooted in spirituality and traditional rituals, it can also have practical applications in everyday life.
  1. Energy Protection: In contemporary spiritual practices, the Phurba is often used as an energy protection tool. In meditation or healing practices, it can be used to purify space and ward off negative energies.

  2. Energy Focusing: The Phurba can be used as a focal point during visualization or meditation practices. By focusing on the sharp point of the Phurba, practitioners can channel their energy and intention toward a specific goal, such as healing or problem solving.

  3. Meditation Tool: Holding a Phurba during meditation can help ground the mind and facilitate focus. Some practitioners find that the sensation of the dagger in their hand reminds them of their commitment to their spiritual practice and helps them stay present in the moment.

  4. Personal Energy Defense: Some carry a small Phurba on their person as a personal protective talisman, providing security, strength and protection in stressful situations or when they feel energetically vulnerable.

  5. Healing Tool: In some traditions, the Phurba is used in healing practices to clear energy blockages and restore balance to the body and mind. Practitioners use the tip of the Phurba to direct healing energy to specific areas of the body or aura.

Phurba- dagger of tantric Buddhism | obsidian dragons
Rock crystal Phurba pendant featured in our Buddhist amulet collection

5- Materials and Symbolism of the Phurba:
Making a Phurba can involve a variety of materials, each carrying its own symbolism and importance in ritual practices.

  • Stone : Stone Phurbas, such as jade or rock crystal, symbolize stability and strength. The stone is associated with earth and permanence, making it a popular choice for those seeking a grounded connection with earth energies and a solid foundation for their spiritual practices.

Jade Phurba: Carries a particularly rich and deep symbolism, due to the intrinsic properties of this precious stone as well as the attributes associated with the Phurba itself.

    1. Stability and Balance : Jade is associated with stability, balance, and tranquility. As an earth stone, jade embodies solidity and permanence, providing a grounding and solid foundation for spiritual practices.

    2. Harmony and Wisdom : Jade is also considered a stone of wisdom and harmony. By wearing or using a jade Phurba, one seeks to cultivate a deeper understanding of oneself and the world around them, as well as promote inner and outer harmony.

    3. Protection and Purification : As with all Phurbas, jade ones are used to repel negative energies and purify the spiritual environment. Jade is often considered a protective stone, able to neutralize harmful influences and promote a purified sacred space.

    4. Longevity and Prosperity : In many cultures, jade is associated with longevity, health and prosperity. A jade Phurba can therefore be considered a talisman of good fortune, bringing blessings of health, happiness and success in spiritual practices and daily life.

Rock crystal Phurba: presents a rich symbolism, associating the properties of rock crystal with those of Phurba.

  1. Clarity and Purity : Rock crystal is considered a stone of clarity and purity. A rock crystal Phurba therefore symbolizes spiritual purification, transparency of mind and clarity of intention.

  2. Amplification of energies : Rock crystal is renowned for its power to amplify energies. Thus, a rock crystal Phurba can intensify spiritual intentions, strengthen meditative practices and increase the power of purification and protection rituals.

  3. Healing and Balancing : Rock Crystal is often associated with healing and energetic balancing. A Rock Crystal Phurba can therefore be used in spiritual healing practices, aimed at restoring harmony in the body, mind and spirit.

  4. Spiritual Connection : Due to its clarity and purity, rock crystal is considered a stone of spiritual connection. A rock crystal Phurba can facilitate communication with higher spiritual planes, strengthen the connection with spirit guides, and facilitate access to inner wisdom.

  5. Protection and Purification : As with all Phurbas, a Rock Crystal Phurba is used to repel negative energies and purify the spiritual space. Rock Crystal acts as a protective shield, eliminating harmful influences and promoting a sacred and secure environment.

    Phurba- dagger of tantric Buddhism | obsidian dragons
    Exceptional and rare Phurba in rock crystal, present in our collections

Amethyst Phurba: Has unique symbolism associated with this as well as the traditional attributes of the Phurba.

  1. Wisdom and Spirituality : Amethyst is associated with wisdom and spirituality. An amethyst Phurba symbolizes the search for spiritual knowledge, deep meditation, and connection with higher spiritual realms.

  2. Spiritual Protection : Amethyst is renowned for its protective properties against negative energies and harmful influences. An Amethyst Phurba therefore acts as a spiritual shield, repelling dark forces and creating a sacred and protected space for spiritual practices.

  3. Transmutation of energies : Amethyst is also associated with the transmutation of energies, transforming negative vibrations into positive energies. An Amethyst Phurba can therefore be used in purification rituals, helping to purify and uplift the surrounding energy.

  4. Intuition and Mental Clarity : Due to its deep purple color, amethyst is often associated with intuition and mental clarity. An amethyst Phurba can help stimulate intuition, promote clear thinking, and increase spiritual awareness.

  5. Balance and Harmony : Amethyst is also considered a stone of balance and harmony. An Amethyst Phurba can help balance the emotions, calm the mind, and promote a state of inner harmony and peace.

    Phurba- dagger of tantric Buddhism | obsidian dragons
    Exceptional Amethyst Phurba available on our website

 Obsidian Phurba: has a particular symbolism, closely linked to the unique properties of this natural volcanic glass.

  1. Protection and Purification : Obsidian is associated with protection and purification. As a natural stone formed by the rapid cooling of volcanic lava, obsidian is considered to have a powerful energy to repel negative influences and purify the spiritual environment. An obsidian Phurba therefore acts as a spiritual shield, protecting the practitioner from unwanted energies and purifying the sacred space.

  2. Transformation and Transmutation : Obsidian is also associated with transformation and transmutation of energies. Due to its volcanic origin, it is considered a stone of strength and courage, helping to overcome obstacles and transform challenges into opportunities for growth. An obsidian Phurba therefore symbolizes the process of spiritual transformation, helping the practitioner to transcend limitations and evolve into a higher state of awakening.

  3. Mental Clarity and Inner Vision : Due to its dark and brilliant nature, Obsidian is often associated with mental clarity and inner vision. It helps to dispel illusions, allowing the practitioner to see the truth with clear and lucid vision. An Obsidian Phurba can therefore be used in meditation to promote deeper awareness and greater spiritual understanding.

  4. Grounding and Psychic Protection : In addition to its ability to protect against negative energies, obsidian is also associated with grounding and psychic protection. It helps to strengthen one’s connection to the Earth and maintain a stable and balanced presence in the physical world. An obsidian Phurba therefore offers essential support for staying grounded and protected while exploring the spiritual realms.

Phurba- dagger of tantric Buddhism | obsidian dragons
Phurba in silver obsidian available in our dedicated collection

 

  • Wood : Wooden Phurbas, often hand-carved, represent growth, flexibility, and vitality. Wood is also associated with nature and spiritual growth, making it an appropriate choice for those seeking to cultivate their spiritual practice in an organic and evolutionary way.

  • Metal : Metal Phurbas, symbolize strength, durability, and power. Metal is associated with energy and strength, making it an ideal choice for those looking to channel powerful energies into their rituals and spiritual practices.

Bronze Phurba: has a rich symbolism, associated with the specific properties of this metal and its use in the manufacture of ritual objects.

  1. Strength and Durability : Bronze is a metal alloy composed primarily of copper and tin, known for its strength and durability. A bronze Phurba therefore symbolizes strength and endurance, providing strong support in ritual and spiritual practices.

  2. Tradition and Heritage : Bronze is a material that has been traditionally used in the making of ritual and religious objects for centuries. Due to its ancient history and continued use in cultural and spiritual practices, a bronze Phurba is associated with tradition and spiritual heritage. It serves as a reminder of teachings and practices passed down from generation to generation, providing a valuable link to the past.

  3. Energy Conduction : Bronze is a conductive metal, capable of transferring energy and channeling spiritual forces. A bronze Phurba therefore acts as a conduit for spiritual energy, helping to amplify the practitioner's intentions and spiritual practices. It facilitates the transmission of blessings and prayers, thus enhancing the effectiveness of rituals.

  4. Stability and Balance : Due to its solid metal composition, bronze also represents stability and balance. A bronze Phurba provides a stable anchor in spiritual practices, helping the practitioner remain centered and balanced in moments of meditation and ritual. It symbolizes the inner strength and resilience needed to face life’s challenges.

  5. Beauty and Aesthetics : In addition to its functional and spiritual symbolism, a bronze Phurba is often appreciated for its beauty and aesthetics. Bronze has a warm color and natural luster that give it an attractive appearance. As a ritual object, a bronze Phurba is often admired for its craftsmanship and design, adding an aesthetic dimension to spiritual practice.
    Phurba- dagger of tantric Buddhism | obsidian dragons

Silver Phurba:

  1. Purity and Clarity : Silver is often associated with purity and clarity due to its bright color and natural luster. A silver Phurba therefore symbolizes purity of intention and clarity of mind in spiritual practices. It represents the search for truth and wisdom, as well as the desire to transcend illusions and obstacles on the path to enlightenment.

  2. Protection and Healing : In many cultures, silver is considered a metal with protective and healing powers. A silver Phurba therefore acts as a protective talisman, repelling negative energies and ensuring the spiritual safety of the officiant. It is also associated with spiritual and physical healing, helping to remove energy blockages and restore inner balance.

  3. Light and Illumination : Due to its characteristic luster, silver is often associated with light and spiritual illumination. A silver Phurba therefore symbolizes the quest for spiritual knowledge and divine wisdom. It represents the ability to illuminate the darkness of ignorance and find the truth beyond appearances. It is used in meditation and visualization practices to help achieve higher states of consciousness.

  4. Balance and Harmony : Silver is also associated with balance and harmony due to its soft and malleable nature. A silver Phurba therefore symbolises the importance of balancing opposing forces and finding inner harmony. It is a reminder of the importance of cultivating qualities such as compassion, generosity and kindness to achieve a state of balance and inner peace.

  5. Elegance and Refinement : In addition to its spiritual symbolism, a silver Phurba is often admired for its elegance and aesthetic refinement. Silver is a precious metal prized for its natural beauty and silvery luster. A silver Phurba therefore adds an aesthetic dimension to spiritual practice, elevating the ritual experience to a level of sophistication and elegance.
    Phurba- dagger of tantric Buddhism | obsidian dragons
    P hurba in 925 silver - copper - turquoise and agates nan hong

Gold Phurba:

  1. Royalty and Divinity : Gold has long been associated with royalty, power and divinity in many cultures around the world. A gold Phurba therefore symbolizes spiritual royalty and the divine nature of tantric practice. It represents the sacred connection with divine forces and the ability to manifest noble and transcendent qualities in everyday life.

  2. Purification and Transformation: Gold is considered a pure and incorruptible metal, capable of transmuting negative energies into positive ones. A gold Phurba therefore acts as an agent of purification and spiritual transformation, helping the practitioner transcend obstacles and realize their full spiritual potential. It symbolizes the ability to purify the mind and body of impurities and limitations, thus paving the way to enlightenment.

  3. Abundance and Prosperity : Gold is associated with abundance, wealth and prosperity in many cultures. A gold Phurba symbolizes spiritual abundance and inner prosperity that results from authentic spiritual practice. It represents the richness of the spirit and inner bliss that emerges when one cultivates qualities such as compassion, generosity and wisdom.

  4. Radiance and Illumination : Due to its characteristic radiance, gold is often associated with light and spiritual illumination. A gold Phurba therefore symbolizes the quest for spiritual knowledge and divine wisdom. It represents the ability to illuminate the darkness of ignorance and find the truth beyond appearances. It is used in meditation and visualization practices to help achieve higher states of consciousness.

  5. Protection and Blessing : Due to its value and sacredness, gold is considered a protective and beneficial metal. A gold Phurba acts as a talisman of protection and blessing, repelling negative energies and attracting positive energies. It symbolizes divine protection and blessing from the celestial forces, offering the practitioner safety and support in their spiritual journey.

  • Bone : Bone Phurbas, although less common, carry a deep meaning related to mortality and transformation. Bone is associated with life and death, dissolution and regeneration, making it a symbolic choice for those working with the energies of transformation and renewal.

  • Ivory:
    Phurba- dagger of tantric Buddhism | obsidian dragons
    Extremely rare mammoth ivory phurba available by --------------------------------- clicking on this link
  1. Purity and Clarity : Ivory, due to its white color and smooth texture, is associated with purity and clarity. An ivory Phurba symbolizes the pursuit of spiritual purity and mental clarity in spiritual practice. It represents the ability to transcend the impurities and obscurities of the mind to attain higher states of consciousness.

  2. Spiritual Elevation : Due to its rarity and beauty, ivory is associated with objects of great value and high quality. An ivory Phurba symbolizes spiritual elevation and the pursuit of perfection in tantric practice. It represents the quest for spiritual excellence and ultimate accomplishment in the path of awakening.

  3. Protection and Strength : Historically, ivory has been used in the making of ritual objects and protective weapons because of its strength and durability. An ivory Phurba symbolizes protection and strength in spiritual practice. It represents the ability to repel negative forces and defend against obstacles on the path to awakening.

  4. Harmony and Balance : Ivory is a noble and balanced material, capable of withstanding the ravages of time. An ivory Phurba also symbolizes harmony and balance in spiritual practice. It represents the ability to maintain inner stability and alignment with spiritual principles, even in the face of challenges and adversities.

6- Conclusion:
With its multiple practical uses, ranging from purification and invocation rituals to protection and healing, the Phurba embodies a profound symbol of spiritual transformation and connection with divine energies. Its crafting from different materials like jade, rock crystal, amethyst, obsidian, wood, bronze, silver and even ivory, adds layers of symbolism and spiritual meanings, offering a variety of options to choose the one that best suits one's spiritual needs and aspirations.

Beyond its use in traditional rituals, the Phurba also finds its place in contemporary daily life as a tool for energy protection, energy focusing, grounding during meditation, and even as a personal talisman. Whether in ancient spiritual practices or modern spiritual pursuits, the Phurba continues to serve as a spiritual guide and object of veneration, offering a tangible means to transcend obstacles and journey toward enlightenment.

The symbolic richness of the materials used to make the Phurba reflects the diversity of its uses and the depth of its meaning in spiritual traditions. Whether made of stone, precious metal, or bone, each Phurba embodies a unique story and symbolic power that inspires those who hold it to seek wisdom, protection, and inner harmony. As a timeless symbol of spiritual transformation, the Phurba continues to illuminate the path of spiritual seekers throughout the ages, offering the promise of liberation and awakening for those who wear it with devotion and reverence.
Phurba- dagger of tantric Buddhism | obsidian dragons

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