Tibet
18th century
This gesture is that of embracing a consort and is symbolic of bringing together two aspects of enlightenment: wisdom and method.
Tibet
18th century
Vajradhara is shown embracing his consort, who sits on his lap, symbolizing the union of method (male) and wisdom (female). The same symbolism applies to his attributes vajra (male) and bell (female). His blue color is often associated with the sky. He presides over the eighty-four mahasiddhas, whose teachings are generally classified as the Highest Yoga Tantra. As an a primordial buddha (adibuddha), Vajradhara is thought to encompass each of the Five Buddhas.
A meditation technique primarily used in tantric practice that involves imagining a deity in one’s mind or imagining oneself becoming a deity and carrying out various activities. Such techniques are intended to help a practitioner transform ordinary perception and achieve enlightened qualities.
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.
The passing down of authentic Buddhist teachings from a teacher to a disciple or student, often in the form of a text in a ritualistic context.
An awakened being who understands the true nature of reality and is free from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. While there are many buddhas, Siddhartha Gautama is the historical Buddha, whose teachings became the foundation of Buddhism.
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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