Nepal
15th century
Nepal
15th century
This depiction of an embrace of two deities represents the essential symbolism of Vajrayana, or Tantric Buddhism, which has roots in Indian tantric practices centered on mother goddesses and worship of Shiva. As texts of the Vajrayana tradition explain, Buddhists aim to attain the awakened state or enlightenment through unconventional means. A female deity represents the wisdom of understanding reality, while the male deity represents method, or compassionate action. Their union merges two aspects of the practice necessary for complete awakening.The three-faced and six-armed Yogambara holds a vajra (thunderbolt scepter) and a gantha (bell) in two main hands. A lower right hand holds a skull cup. His consort, Jnana Dakini, also has three faces and two arms that embrace him. Both deities are adorned with crowns and necklaces and sit on a lotus pedestal.
Buddhist practitioners in some traditions believe that cutting through ordinary perceptions that keep us in the endless cycle of death and rebirth, known as samsara, can create a powerful and enhanced divine identity that leads to 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.
Get the latest news and stories from the Rubin, plus occasional information on how to support our work.