Vajrasattva (Indestructible Being) is a tantric deity symbolizing purity. He holds a dorje and ghanta (bell), symbolizing compassion and skillful means. His specialty is purification of impediments and karmic obscurations – dikpa and drippa.
He is a central deity for all schools of Tibetan Buddhism, known as Dorje Sempa. He represents innate purity and his practices and mantra purify the practitioner.
Vajrasattva is a key figure in ngondro – the special preliminaries of Tibtetan Dharma. When I think of him, the first thing that comes to mind is 100,000 repetitions of the mantra for ngondro. But we should see him as much more than that. I find Vajrasattva in almost every sadhana. He makes transitions from section to the next. He purifies mistakes in recitation. He seals the practice for breaks.
White figure, often seated in a lotus posture, holding a vajra (dorje) in his right hand and a bell (dril bu) in his left. He may be adorned with various jewels and silks. With or without consort.
Significance
He is a key figure in Vajrayana Buddhism, particularly in purification practices. He is seen as a Buddha who embodies the enlightened mind and helps purify negative karma and defilements.
Related Concepts
Vajra (dorje), Bell (dril bu), Purification practices, 100 Syllable Mantra
Relationship to Other Buddhas:
Dorje Sempa is not considered a historical Buddha like Shakyamuni but a Buddha-figure representing an enlightened principle.
He is seen as an embodiment of the Dharmakaya (ultimate reality) and the potentiality for enlightenment within all beings.
Possible Connections:
The concept of Vajrasattva can be linked to the bodhisattva ideal of achieving enlightenment for the benefit of all beings.
The vajra and bell he holds connect to symbolism in Vajrayana Buddhism around skillful means (vajra) and wisdom (bell).
In some Vajrayana traditions, he is associated with the practice of 100,000 100 syllable mantra recitation.
Additional Notes:
The specific interpretations and practices associated with Vajrasattva can vary slightly across different Vajrayana lineages.
It’s important to consult with a qualified Vajrayana teacher for proper understanding and guidance in Vajrasattva practices.
Unwavering Purity
Vajra sattva, a luminous figure in Vajrayana Buddhism, embodies the essence of unwavering purity and enlightened wisdom. He is a Buddha-figure revered for his ability to cleanse negative karma and empower practitioners on their spiritual journeys. By contemplating his radiant form and reciting his powerful mantra, he offers a path towards inner purification and the awakening of one’s own Buddha-nature.
Meaning of the Name Vajrasattva
The name Vajra sattva originates from the Sanskrit language, where “vajra” translates to “thunderbolt” or “diamond,” symbolizing qualities like strength, indestructibility, and skillful means. “Sattva” translates to “being” or “essence,” signifying the awakened nature that lies dormant within all beings. Therefore, he represents the embodiment of an enlightened mind, possessing unwavering strength and the skillful means to guide others towards liberation.
Iconography and Form
Vajra sattva is typically depicted as a serene white figure, seated in a lotus posture. This white color symbolizes purity, innocence, and the state of enlightenment beyond duality. In his right hand, he holds a vajra, a powerful ritual object representing the vajra qualities mentioned earlier. His left hand holds a bell (dril bu), symbolizing wisdom and the call to awaken. He may be adorned with various jewels and silks, further highlighting his enlightened status.
How to meditate like a yogi and enter profound samadhi
Om Vajra sattva Samaya Manupalaya Vajra sattva Tvenopa Tishtha Dridho Me Bhava Suto Kayo Me Bhava Supo Kayo Me Bhava Anu Rakto Me Bhava Sarva Siddhi Me Prayaccha Sarva Karma Su Tsama Me Citta Shrey Kuru Hum
Om Vajra sattva Samaya Manupalaya: “O Vajrasattva, uphold your vow, I take refuge in you.”
Vajra sattva Tvenopa Tishtha Dridho Me Bhava: “May you remain steadfast with me, grant me strength.”
Suto Kayo Me Bhava Supo Kayo Me Bhava: “Grant me complete satisfaction, increase the positive within me.”
Anu Rakto Me Bhava: “Look after me with compassion.”
Sarva Siddhi Me Prayaccha: “Grant me all accomplishments.”
Sarva Karma Su Tsama Me Citta Shrey Kuru Hum: “Purify all my karma and lead my mind to its highest good. Hum (seed syllable of purification).”
Vajrasattva Short Mantra
Here is the mantra in Sanskrit with its English transliteration:
Om Vajrasattva Hum
Om (the sound of awakening) Vajra sattva (the name of the Buddha-figure) Hum (the seed syllable of purification)
While the full 100-Syllable Mantra offers a more extensive practice, reciting even the short mantra “Om Vajra sattva Hum” can be beneficial.
The short mantra “Om Vajra sattva Hum” offers a convenient and powerful tool for purification throughout the day. Reciting this mantra with a focused mind and genuine intention can help clear negativity, cultivate a sense of peace, and invoke the blessings of Vajrasattva.
Vajrasattva Mantra Benefits
The practice of reciting the mantra offers a multitude of benefits for practitioners, including:
Wisdom: Reciting the mantra stills the mind so that wisdom can manifest.
Purification: The mantra is believed to cleanse negative karma and obscurations that hinder spiritual progress.
Increased Merit: Reciting the mantra is said to accumulate merit, a positive karmic force that supports spiritual development.
Enhanced Compassion: Contemplating his pure nature can cultivate qualities like compassion and a genuine wish to help all beings.
Inner Peace: The rhythmic recitation of the mantra can induce a state of mental calmness and emotional stability.
Vajra sattva’s Consort
Unlike some Buddha-figures in other Buddhist traditions, he is not typically depicted with a consort. This reflects the emphasis on his pure and unconditioned nature, transcending the realm of duality.
Some forms however are in yab-yum. His consort is known as Vajratopa – Indestructible Pride or the confidence of the deity.
Historical Origins and Development
The veneration of Vajrasattva appears around the 8th-9th century CE in India, emerging within the context of Vajrayana Buddhist practice. Early textual sources reference his role in purification rituals and his association with powerful mantras. Over time, his role and iconography became more established within various Vajrayana traditions.
Vajrasattva in Different Traditions
While the core aspects of him remain consistent across different Vajrayana schools, there might be slight variations in interpretations and practices. Some lineages emphasize specific visualizations during mantra recitation, while others might offer variations in the pronunciation or translation of the mantra itself.
His role extends beyond simply purifying negativity. He represents the awakened mind itself, the potential for enlightenment that resides within each individual. By contemplating his pure form and reciting his mantra, practitioners can access this potential and cultivate the qualities of a Buddha. Vajrasattva serves as a constant reminder of the ultimate goal of the Vajrayana path – the realization of one’s own inherent Buddha-nature.
Vajrasattva in Tibetan Buddhism: Purification, Practice, and Symbolism
The Tibetan term for Vajrasattva is Dorje Sempa (Wylie: rdo rje sems dpa’).
Dorje (rdo rje) translates to “vajra,” which symbolizes both indestructible reality and skillful means.
Sempa (sems dpa’) translates to “hero” or “being of essence,” referring to Vajrasattva’s enlightened nature.
Root Tantra and Purification: Dorje Gyan (Vajra Ornament) is the root tantra associated with Dorje Sempa. His practices are considered essential for Vajrayana students. They serve two purposes:
Purifying obscurations to progress beyond preliminary practices (Ngondro) to advanced tantric yogas.
Cleansing any broken samaya vows taken during initiation.
Mantra and Peace: The mantra, particularly the six-syllable version (om Vajrasattva Hum), is believed to purify karma, bring peace, and promote enlightened activity. This belief was exemplified by a global peace prayer initiative following the 9/11 attacks.
Dzogchen Connection: He appears in Dzogchen teachings:
“The Mirror of the Heart of Vajrasattva” is one of the Seventeen Tantras of Dzogchen Upadesha.
The “Kulayaraja Tantra” features a dialogue between Samantabhadra and Vajrasattva.
Consorts: He is sometimes depicted with various consorts, both peaceful and wrathful, representing different aspects of practice.
Key Takeaway: Vajrasattva embodies purification and serves as a guide for Vajrayana practitioners. His presence is significant in root tantras, mantras, and Dzogchen teachings.
Conclusion
Vajrasattva stands as a luminous beacon of purity and unwavering strength in Vajrayana Buddhism. His presence offers a powerful method for cleansing negativity, cultivating inner peace, and ultimately awakening to our true Buddha-nature. Whether through reciting his mantras or contemplating his radiant form, Vajrasattva inspires us on our journey towards enlightenment.
May all beings be happy
May all beings be peaceful
May all beings be safe
May all beings awaken to the light of their true nature
