About Vajrapani Thangka

Vajrapani is the protector and guide of Gautama Buddha and rose to symbolize the Buddha's power. Vajrapani Thangka is used to gain focus in meditation. Vajrapani is depicted in the warrior's pose, with one leg bent and the other outstretched. In his right hand, held aloft, he brandishes a vajra, representing his diamond-like motivation and impetus to accomplishment. His left hand holds a lasso, with which he binds the demons of delusion. He has three eyes, symbolizing his knowledge of past, present, and future. He wears a crown adorned with five human skulls, representing his transformation of the five poisons into the five transcendent pearls of wisdom, as well as his purification of the five aggregates. Around his neck is a garland of serpents, a reminder of his aspect as protector of the nagas. He is clothed in a tiger-skin and is surrounded by the blazing fire of exalted wisdom which consumes all neurotic states.