Manjushree with Chenrezig and Vajrapani Thangka

Description

Manjushree with Chenrezig and Vajrapani Thangka is handpainted on cotton canvas by Thangka artist from Nepal. Chenrezig embodies the compassion of all Buddhas. This bodhisattva is variably depicted, described, and portrayed in different cultures as either male or female.

Chenrezig is depicted in the down left corner of the thangka. Manjushree is presented at the center of the thangka. Vajrapani is presented at the down right corner of the thangka.

Iconography of Chenrezig

Chenrezig is the lord gifted with complete enlightenment who refrains from entering the blissful state of nirvana to remain here below and save the living being of the earth. Chenrezig is evoked in many forms with various numbers of faces and arms, and various colors and ornaments. He sits on a lotus and the flat disc of the moon with another moon disk behind him reflecting his total purity.

Two of his four arms are joined in the prayer position holding the wish-fulfilling gem. In the left hand, he holds a lotus flower. In his right hand, he holds a crystal mala (rosary) which he is using to count the repetitions of his mantra

He wears the silks and ornaments of a Bodhisattva representing all his special qualities and the soft skin of an antelope over his shoulder. He is symbolizing his complete freedom from violence. He smiles with deep understanding, love, and compassion as his eyes look upon all beings.

Mantra of Chenrezig

The Mantra of Chenrezig is Om Mani Padme Hum.

Iconography of Manjushree

Manjushree is presented at the center of the Chenrezig. Manjushree is the Bodhisattva who holds the flaming sword of enlightenment, by his left hand in a warning hand gesture in the left hand representing his realization of wisdom to cut through ignorance & wrong view. His right hand depicted in teaching holds the stem of a Blue Lotus flower upon which rests the Book (Pustaka) of Perfection of Transcendental Wisdom.

Mantra of Manjushree

The mantra of Manjushree is Om A Ra Pa Ca Na Dhih.

Iconography of Vajrapani

Vajrapani is presented at the down right corner of the thangka. Vajrapaṇi is one of the earliest bodhisattvas of Mahayana Buddhism. He is the protector and guide of the Buddha and rose to symbolize the Buddha’s power.

Vajrapani is pictured dancing wildly within a halo of flames which represents transformation. He holds a vajra (thunderbolt) in his right hand which emphasizes the power to cut through the darkness of delusion. Vajrapani looks wrathful, but as a representation of the enlightened mind. He is completely free from hatred.

Mantra Of Vajrapani

The mantra of Vajrapabi is om vajrapani hum phat.