Vajrapani
On the popular level, Vajrapani, Holder of the Thunderbolt Scepter
(symbolizing the power of compassion), is the Bodhisattva who
represents the power of all the Buddhas, just as Avalokiteshvara
represents their great compassion, Manjushri their wisdom, and Tara
their miraculous deeds. For the yogi, Vajrapani is an archetype
deity of fierce determination and symbolizes unrelenting
effectiveness in the conquest of negativity. As such, this icon
brandishes a vajra in an exorcising gesture in his right hand, and
with his left hand makes the threatening gesture with index and
little fingers pointed up. His taut posture is the active warrior
pose (pratayalidha), based on an archer's stance but resembling the
en garde position in Western fencing.
"Wisdom and compassion" the sacred art of Tibet
Above Vajrarani at his
left is depicted Tonpa Garab Dorje. It is said he is emanation of
the Buddha Shakymuni and the first teacher of Dzogcheh (rdzog-chen)
of our time. He is shown in the five-colored Tigle (circle) with the
mudra of giving teaching.
At another side is flying Palje Dorje
- very famous Nyingmapa Lama of IX-th century connected with the
practice (Sadhana) of Vajrapani.
Below of the principal figure
there are two main guardians of the teachings. On the Vajrapani's
left is Dam-chen Dorje Legpa. Wrathful protector of the Tibetan
ancient pre-Buddhist religious he was conquered by Guru
Padmasambhava .After this Dorje Legpa took vows and became the most
powerful protector of the Nyingmapa. On the right is Rahula one more
wrathful and powerful guardian of the school.
