Thangka Tibet Vajrapani

Description

Thangka Tibet Vajrapani
Hand-painted on canvas
Size: approx. 110 x 90 cm
Inside picture size: approx. 55 x 41 cm

VAJRAPANI
Vajrapani with the vajra symbol is the spiritual son of Dhyani-Buddha Akshobhya, the ancestor of the vajra family. His spiritual mother is Mamaki. Vajrapani is also known as the rain god. It is said that when the nagas (serpents) appeared before Buddha to hear his teachings, Vajrapani was tasked by the Tathagata to protect them from the attacks of their deadly enemies, the Garudas, by deceiving and fighting the Garudas. Vajrapani took on a form with a head, wings, and claws, like the Garudas themselves. Hence, Vajrapani is considered the protector of the nagas and the rain god. Northern Buddhists appeal to rain when rain is needed or when it falls too plentifully. One representation of the Vajrapani is that in Garuda form, which is just one of many different representations of the Vajrapani. When represented, the Vajrapani stands or sits, usually carrying a lotus bearing the family symbol of Vajra. Sometimes he holds the vajra against his chest with one of his hands.

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