
Vajra-Dorje- Striking Down Ignorance
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Vajrayana Buddhism, and its tantric form, is rich in symbols and rituals that help practitioners connect more deeply with their spiritual path. Among these symbols, the vajra, also known as the dorje in Tibetan, occupies a central place. But what does the vajra actually represent and how is it used in spiritual practices?
I)- What is a dorje?
A dorje, also called a vajra in Sanskrit, is a central symbol in Tantric Buddhism. Representing indestructibility and spiritual power, it is often used in tandem with the Tibetan bell during rituals. The dorje symbolizes the masculine method, while the bell represents feminine wisdom. Together, they embody the union necessary to achieve spiritual awakening. The dorje's shape, often intricate, reflects profound spiritual concepts, such as emptiness and the interconnectedness of the opposing forces of the universe.
The vajra, or dorje in Tibetan, is the most important symbol of Tibetan Buddhism. Meaning "diamond", it represents the indestructible spirit and awakening, imperishable and indivisible. This scepter, originating from the diamond thunderbolt of the god Indra, embodies royalty and spiritual power. Used in tantric rituals, the vajra symbolizes the masculine method, essential to achieving enlightenment. Its use and profound symbolism make it a central object in Buddhist practices, uniting wisdom and method to transcend ignorance.
A- Origin of Dorje-Vajra
The dorje, also called vajra, has deep origins in the spiritual traditions of ancient India, before being integrated into Tibetan Tantric Buddhism.
Here are some key points about its origin and development:
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Indian Origins:
- The vajra was originally the weapon of the god Indra, a symbol of power and indestructibility.
- Used in Hindu and Buddhist rituals to mark transition in meditations and ceremonies.
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Introduction to Tibet :
- Introduced to Tibet in the 7th century with the arrival of Tantric Buddhism.
- Masters like Padmasambhava and Shantarakshita brought these practices and integrated local Tibetan elements.
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Tibetan Evolution :
- The dorje evolved into an essential ritual instrument, often used with the drilbou (bell), symbolizing method (compassion) and wisdom respectively.
- Used in purification, initiation and meditation rituals.
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Symbolism :
- The dorje symbolizes the indestructible nature of the mind and awakening, imperishable and indivisible.
- He reminds practitioners of the necessity of method to attain enlightenment.
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Manufacturing and Crafts :
- Made of precious metal alloys, or minerals with complex symbolic designs.
- Passed down from master to disciple, symbolizing the transmission of wisdom and spiritual teachings.
The dorje, with its Indian roots and Tibetan evolution, embodies a rich tradition of spiritual power and transformation. Used in various ritual practices, it remains a central symbol of the path to awakening in Tantric Buddhism.
B- Symbolism of the Dorje-Vajra
1. Indestructible Nature: The dorje symbolizes the indestructible spirit and supreme awakening, meaning "diamond" to represent the imperishable and indivisible.
2. Spiritual Power: Dorje embodies royalty and spiritual power, used to overcome ignorance and transform negative energies.
3. Union of Opposites: Dorje is often used with the Tibetan bell , representing method (compassion) and wisdom. This union is essential for spiritual awakening, each component being indispensable to the other.
To learn more about this subject, I invite you to consult my article, "how to use the dorje and the Tibetan bell in Buddhist practice", by clicking on this link
4. Transformation and Purification: The dorje helps in spiritual transformation and mental purification. As a ritual instrument, it dispels mental obscurations and promotes a state of clarity and inner peace.
II) - Compositions and symbolism of each part composing a Vajra-dorje
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Five Upper Points:
- Mirror Wisdom : This wisdom reflects all things without confusion, like a perfectly polished mirror, symbolizing the ability of the awakened mind to know everything.
- Wisdom of Equality : Recognizes that all phenomena of samsara and nirvana share a single essence, emptiness.
- Wisdom of Distinction : Simultaneous perception of the emptiness of all phenomena and their manifestations without confusion.
- Accomplishing Wisdom : Allows Buddhas to create pure fields and emanations for the benefit of beings.
- Wisdom of Universal Space : Indicates the pure knowledge of the mind, beyond duality and concepts.
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Five Lower Points :
- Symbolize the Five Female Buddhas, representing complementary aspects of the spiritual qualities of the Male Buddhas.
In Tantric Buddhism, the five female Buddhas, often called the Five Great Mothers or Prajnaparamita, are feminine aspects of the five male Dhyani Buddhas. These female deities represent aspects of wisdom and compassion. The five female Buddhas are:
- Buddhalochana : Associated with Akshobhya, representing mirror wisdom.
- Mamaki : Associated with Ratnasambhava, representing the wisdom of equality.
- Pandara : Associated with Amitabha, representing the wisdom of distinction.
- Samayatara : Associated with Amoghasiddhi, representing accomplishing wisdom.
- Dhatvishvari : Associated with Vairocana, representing the wisdom of universal space.
These deities symbolize different spiritual qualities and play an essential role in tantric meditative practice.
- Symbolize the Five Female Buddhas, representing complementary aspects of the spiritual qualities of the Male Buddhas.
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Five Buddhas :
- The five upper points symbolize the Five Victors or Five Male Buddhas, each embodying a different aspect of spiritual awakening.
The Five Victors, also known as the Five Dhyani Buddhas, are central figures in Tantric Buddhism. Each Buddha embodies a particular wisdom and quality of spiritual awakening.
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- Wisdom : Wisdom of Universal Space
- Color : White
- Direction : Center
- Symbol : Wheel of Dharma
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Akshobhya :
- Wisdom : Mirror-like wisdom
- Color : Blue
- Direction : East
- Symbol : Vajra (Dorje)
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Ratnasambhava :
- Wisdom : Wisdom of Equality
- Color : Yellow
- Direction : South
- Symbol : Jewel
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- Wisdom : Wisdom of distinction
- Color : Red
- Direction : West
- Symbol : Lotus
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Amoghasiddhi :
- Wisdom : Fulfilling Wisdom
- Color : Green
- Direction : North
- Symbol : Double vajra (visvavajra)
Each of these Buddhas is associated with a specific direction, color, and symbol, thus embodying different aspects of Buddhist awakening and spiritual practice.
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- The five upper points symbolize the Five Victors or Five Male Buddhas, each embodying a different aspect of spiritual awakening.
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Makara Mouths :
- Makaras, mythical sea creatures, also depicted on a phurba , represent liberation from the cycle of rebirth. The tips of the dorje emerge from their mouths, symbolizing the transcendence of the cycles of reincarnation.
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Eight Upper Petals :
- These petals represent the eight great male bodhisattvas who reside in celestial realms, each embodying a quality of the awakened mind, such as compassion, wisdom, and generosity.
The Eight Great Male Bodhisattvas are revered figures in Mahayana Buddhism, representing various virtues and aspects of wisdom.
- Avalokiteshvara: Embodiment of compassion.
- Manjushri : Embodiment of wisdom.
- Samantabhadra : Embodiment of practices and vows.
- Maitreya : Bodhisattva of loving-kindness and future Buddha.
- Ksitigarbha : Protector of beings in the underworld.
- Sarvanivarana-Vishkambhin : Remover of spiritual obstacles.
- Akashagarbha : Embodiment of emptiness and space.
- Vajrapani : Protector and symbol of strength.
These bodhisattvas are often invoked for their specific qualities and their help in the path to awakening.
- These petals represent the eight great male bodhisattvas who reside in celestial realms, each embodying a quality of the awakened mind, such as compassion, wisdom, and generosity.
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Eight Lower Petals :
- Symbolize the eight female bodhisattvas, who represent complementary aspects of the spiritual qualities of male bodhisattvas.
- Tara : Associated with Avalokiteshvara , embodiment of compassion.
- Vajradhatvishvari : Associated with Manjushri , embodiment of wisdom.
- Locana : Associated with Samantabhadra , embodiment of practices and vows.
- Ratnapani : Associated with Ratnasambhava, embodiment of equality.
- Pandara : Associated with Amitabha , embodiment of distinction.
- Dhatvishvari : Associated with Vairocana , embodiment of emptiness.
- Samayatara : Associated with Amoghasiddhi, embodiment of accomplishment.
- Gauri : Associated with Ksitigarbha , protector of beings in the underworld.
These female bodhisattvas embody essential and complementary spiritual qualities, bringing balance and complementarity into Tantric Buddhist practice.
- Symbolize the eight female bodhisattvas, who represent complementary aspects of the spiritual qualities of male bodhisattvas.
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Round Part in the Middle :
- This central part denotes emptiness, the ultimate essence of reality, representing the pure state of consciousness free from all concepts and duality. It recalls the impermanent and empty nature of all phenomena.
The dorje, as a ritual object, embodies these profound symbolisms and serves to remind Buddhist practitioners of the indestructibility of the awakened mind. It is essential in rituals of purification, meditation, and initiation, helping to dispel illusions and foster spiritual awakening. Used in tandem with the Tibetan bell, it symbolizes the union between wisdom and method, fundamental aspects of the spiritual path in Tantric Buddhism.
A) Symbolism of the double dorje
A double Dorje, or vishvavajra, is two Dorjes joined to form a cross. A double Dorje represents the foundation of the physical world and is also associated with certain tantric deities.
The dorje (or vajra) represents the indestructible nature of the awakened mind or pure consciousness, while the double dorje emphasizes a harmonious duality or a complementary union of certain forces. Associated with concepts such as balance, harmony, wholeness or non-duality in Buddhist spirituality.
III) Conclusion
The dorje, or vajra, embodies the profound principles of indestructibility and spiritual power in Tantric Buddhism. Used in tandem with the Tibetan bell , it symbolizes the union of masculine and feminine aspects, of method and wisdom, recalling the importance of balance in the quest for enlightenment.
Each element of the dorje, from the five points symbolizing wisdom to the makara mouths, carries a rich and powerful symbolism guiding practitioners on their spiritual journey. Throughout the ages, the dorje has evolved, integrating cultural and spiritual influences, to become an indispensable tool in rituals of purification, meditation and initiation.
Understanding and honoring the symbols and traditions associated with the dorje allows practitioners to connect more deeply with their spiritual practice, finding the peace, harmony, and wisdom needed to navigate the challenges of modern life. Whether used in religious ceremonies or as a daily reminder of wisdom and compassion, the dorje continues to play a vital role in Tibetan Tantric Buddhism, inspiring and guiding truth seekers toward ultimate enlightenment.