Tibet
15th century
Guhyasamaja is one of the main tantric deities (yidam) who are the focus of the contemplative esoteric practice in Gelug tradition. The seated couple is in sexual embrace, each deity has three heads and six arms, their hands are crossed in front of each other’s chest holding a vajra and bell. In their right hands are a lotus and the wheel. In their left hands are a sword of and a flaming jewel. The two deities represent the same enlightened nature indicated by their hand implements, which together symbolize the union of all the qualities of the Buddha families. Akshobya, which means “the unmovable,” is believed to help the practitioner to master anger, one of the main afflictions that perpetuate the endless cycle of death and rebirth.
A bell is often paired with the vajra and is another implement used in tantric practices and an attribute of tantric masters and deities. It generally symbolizes wisdom, the feminine aspect of enlightenment, and its ring is said to be the sound of emptiness.
A vajra is a ritual scepter used in tantric practices and an attribute of tantric masters and deities. It generally symbolizes method, the male aspect of enlightenment.
A religious movement that originated in India around the fifth to seventh century with sacred writings and esoteric teachings and practices transmitted from teacher to student through initiation. These remain an important part of Hinduism and Buddhism today.
A contemplative practice in which a person uses concentration and visualization to achieve aims such as transforming the mind and generating feelings of compassion. Techniques include focusing on breathing or visualizing oneself as a deity.
Tantric deities personify various enlightened qualities and are the focus of esoteric religious practices (tantras) that aim to swiftly and radically transform one’s understanding of reality.
Today, Tibetans primarily inhabit the Tibetan Plateau, situated between the Himalayan mountain range and the Indian subcontinent to the west, Chinese cultural regions to the east, and Mongolian cultural regions to the northeast. During the 7th to 9th century, Tibetan rulers expanded their empire across Central Asia, and established Buddhism as the state religion.
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