The vajra and bell are the most widely used implements in Tantric Buddhist rituals. They often appear being held by deities and humans in paintings and sculptures. The two objects are highly symbolic, with the vajra scepter representing method (compassionate action) and the bell representing wisdom (understanding of reality). When used together they represent the unity of these two key aspects of the enlightened mind.

Artwork Details

Title
Bell
Dimensions
5 7/8 × 3 3/8 × 3 3/8 in.
Medium
Metal
Origin
Tibet
Classification(s)
ritual objects
Date
18th century
Credit Line
Rubin Museum of Himalayan Art, Gift from the Collection of Jane Werner-Aye
Object number
SC2022.3.2.2

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Wisdom

Concepts

The antidote to ignorance, with the highest form of wisdom being an understanding of the true nature of reality and all phenomena. In Buddhism studying the nature of interdependence and emptiness is considered an important step for attaining wisdom.

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Tantrism

Concepts

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. 

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Ritual

Concepts

Prescribed practices that carry symbolic meaning and value within a specific tradition and are intended to attain a desired outcome. Rituals are usually done as part of a ceremony or regular routine.

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Tibetan Regions

Region

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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