Mindfulness Meditation · Illumination
This week’s meditation session is led by Sharon Salzberg and the theme is Illumination. The guided meditation begins at 10:26.
Vajrasattva; Central Tibet; 13th century; Copper alloy with gold and blue pigment; 13 1/2 × 8 1/2 × 5 7/8 in.; Rubin Museum of Himalayan Art, Gift of Dr. David Nalin; C2009.13
This sculpture depicts Vajrasattva, who is considered a primordial buddha, a meditation deity, and the primary bodhisattva of the vajra family.
This 13th-century sculpture is an early example of central Tibetan art. There are many characteristic features of works of art from this period in time. The figures are portrayed in graceful postures, there is a minimal sense of movement, and they tend to have disproportionately large hands and feet and massive heads.
Vajrasattva is known for guiding practitioners on the path to illumination. He helps both students and teachers alike purify their consciousness. As we gaze upon him, may we be inspired to raise our awareness for the benefit of all beings.
Sharon Salzberg, Cofounder of the Insight Meditation Society in Barre, Massachusetts, has guided meditation retreats worldwide since 1974. Her latest books are Real Life: The Journey from Isolation to Openness and Freedom and Finding Your Way: Meditations, Thoughts, and Wisdom for Living an Authentic Life. She is a weekly columnist for On Being, a regular contributor to the Huffington Post, and the author of several other books, including the New York Times bestseller Real Happiness: The Power of Meditation, Real Change: Mindfulness to Heal Ourselves and the World, Faith: Trusting Your Own Deepest Experience, and Lovingkindness: The Revolutionary Art of Happiness. Ms. Salzberg has been a regular participant in the Rubin’s many on-stage conversations and regards the Rubin as a supplemental office.
Get the latest news and stories from the Rubin, plus occasional information on how to support our work.