About Vajradhara

The primordial Buddha Vajradhara, whose name means ‘Holder of the Vajra’ is the secret tantric form of the historical Buddha Shakyamuni. Also known as Dorje Chang in Tibetan, he took this form to teach the tantras, which are known to expedite our spiritual practice to achieve enlightenment. He represents all the Buddha families and is the combined essence of all the Buddhas of the ten directions and three times.

His body is dark blue, symbolising the vast infinite qualities of the enlightened mind. His two arms are crossed at the heart level, he holds a vajra in his right hand representing skilful means & compassion while his left hand holds a bell that is symbolic of the wisdom mind.

It is said that while following the sutra methods of practice takes practitioners three great aeons to achieve enlightenment, through the practice of tantra, enlightenment can be achieved in this very lifetime.

It is from Buddha Vajradhara that tantric systems such as Guhyasamaja and Heruka Chakrasamvara arise, among countless others. In fact, within these systems, one’s guru is visualised as Vajradhara during certain meditations, indicative of the guru’s importance within tantric practice.

Further Reading

• 84 Mahasiddhas
• Beautiful ancient Tibetan art to share with you