Bhairava (a wrathful manifestation of Shiva) is revered in the culture of Tibetan and Tantric Buddhism as a mighty protector and guiding force. His wrath is seen as the unadulterated powers of the enlightened mind, which can be used in virtuous tasks. Along with his Shakti or feminine aspect (often called Bhairavi or Kali), Bhairava becomes the supreme being- Purusha (male) and Prakriti (female) principles united, to represent the ideal state of the Universe- the most powerful symbol in Tantra.
In this gilded copper statue from Nepal of “Shakti Bhairava”, the potent deity appears in the pose of union or Yab-yum with his feminine aspect, signifying the ultimate state of wisdom, in which male and female principles become one, compassion and wisdom fuse. The many hands of Bhairava extend around his figure, forming a parallel element with the fiery aureole surrounding the statute, while his primary hands embrace Shakti. The power of this cosmic union is depicted by the swaying, flaming tresses of Bhairava, which in Buddhist art symbolizes the upward movement of pure wisdom.
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