 Vajrapani
(tib. phyag na rdorje)
On the popular level, Vajrapani, Holder of the Thunderbolt Scepter
(symbolizing the power of compassion), is the Bodhisattva who represents
the power of all the Buddhas, just as Avalokiteshvara represents
their great compassion, Manjushri their wisdom, and Tara their miraculous
deeds. For the yogi, Vajrapani is an archetype deity of fierce determination
and symbolizes unrelenting effectiveness in the conquest of negativity.
As such, this icon brandishes a vajra in an exorcising gesture in
his right hand, and with his left hand makes the threatening gesture
with index and little fingers pointed up. His taut posture is the
active warrior pose (pratayalidha), based on an archer's stance
but resembling the en garde position in Western fencing. "Wisdom
and compassion" the sacred art of Tibet.
Above Vajrarani at his left is depicted Tonpa Garab Dorje. It is
said he is emanation of the Buddha Shakymuni and the first teacher
of Dzogcheh (rdzog-chen) of our time. He is shown in the five-colored
Tigle (circle) with the mudra of giving teaching. At another side
is flying Palje Dorje - very famous Nyingmapa Lama of IX-th century
connected with the practice (Sadhana) of Vajrapani. Below of the
principal figure there are two main guardians of the teachings.
On the Vajrapani's left is Dam-chen Dorje Legpa. Wrathful protector
of the Tibetan ancient pre-Buddhist religious he was conquered by
Guru Padmasambhava .After this Dorje Legpa took vows and became
the most powerful protector of the Nyingmapa. On the right is Rahula
one more wrathful and powerful guardian of the school.
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