Unleashing the Power of Vajrapani: Exploring the Wrathful yet Compassionate Bodhisattva

Vajrapani is one of the chief Bodhisattvas in Mahayana Buddhism. The Sanskrit word Vajrapani is a combination of two words, Vajra meaning “thunderbolt” and Pani meaning “holding in hand”. He is considered the protector of the Dharma and symbolizes the Buddha's power. The deity of Vajrapani is found in many Buddhist temples in China, Taiwan, and Japan in temple gates, protecting Dharma. He upholds the truth even in adversities of darkness and ignorance. The practitioners and followers of Buddhism who walk the path of Buddhahood take shelter of Vajrapani who then makes their way obstacles-free. He is believed to be a manifestation of Buddha Akshobhya and is often associated with Lord Indra, the god of rain in Hinduism, who is also depicted holding Vajra (his weapon) in his hand.

In Buddhist iconography, Vajrapani is often depicted, along with two other Bodhisattvas, surrounding the Buddha. The other Bodhisattvas are Manjushri who represents Buddha's wisdom and Avalokiteshvara who represents Buddha's oceanic compassion. Vajrapani is sometimes portrayed in human form sporting a third eye, a bell (ghanta), and a lasso with which he binds demons. He holds the Vajra in his right hand. The Vajra symbolizes analytical knowledge. He also wears a five-pointed Bodhisattva crown on his head that depicts the power of the fully awakened state of the Buddha.

What is the importance of Vajra?

Vajrapani is sometimes depicted dancing among flames and holding a lightning bolt in his right hand. His complexion is dark blue or white. The Vajra or the lightning bolt in his hand symbolizes the power of compassion and the power of all the Buddhas. It also represents the means of accomplishing fierce determination and unrelenting effectiveness in the conquest of negativity.

What is the significance of Vajrapani?

Vajrapani is the protector of the human-serpent deities called the nagas. He also removes obstacles from the life of sincere followers of Buddhism and thus accepts their prayers for getting the inner strength to handle difficulties in their lives. His wrathful manifestation to combat demons may appear fierce and terrible externally, but for those who surrender to him, he appears like a benevolent king who is always compassionate toward all living beings. With his weapon, the thunderbolt, he cuts through the strong ropes of illusion and ignorance in the lives of the conditioned souls and shows them the path to enlightenment. The mantra dedicated to Vajrapani is very simple yet powerful: “Om Vajrapani Hum”. It is believed that those who chant this mantra with full faith gain access to the irrepressible energy of Vajrapani and thus become fearful and determined in their spiritual journey.

How to keep a Brass statue well-maintained?

Brass statues are known and appreciated for their exquisite beauty and luster. The brilliant bright gold appearance of Brass makes it appropriate for casting aesthetic statues and sculptures. Brass is a metal alloy composed mainly of copper and zinc. This chemical composition makes brass a highly durable and corrosion-resistant material. Due to these properties, Brass statues and sculptures can be kept both indoors as well as outdoors. They also last for many decades without losing all their natural shine.

Brass statues can withstand even harsh weather conditions very well due to their corrosion-resistance properties. However, maintaining the luster and natural beauty of brass statues is essential if you want to prolong their life and appearance.

• The best and simplest way to maintain a brass statue is to clean it at least twice a week using a soft cloth or cotton rag. This will prevent dust from accumulating on the surface. Dusting is especially important for outdoor statues since it is prone to dust accumulation much more than indoors.

• To give a natural shine and luster to the statue, you may apply coconut or olive oil using cotton on every portion. You can use a toothbrush to get to the small crevices but do not be too harsh. This will make the brass statue appear fresh and new with a polished look.

• In case you have a colored brass statue, you may apply mustard oil using a soft brush or clean cloth on the brass portion while for the colored portion of the statue, you may use coconut oil with a cotton cloth. 

Brass idols of Hindu Gods and Goddesses are especially known for their intricate and detailed work of art. Nepalese sculptures are famous for small brass idols portraying Buddhist deities. These sculptures are beautified with gold gilding and inlay of precious or semi-precious stones. Religious brass statues can be kept at home altars. You can keep a decorative brass statue in your garden or roof to embellish the area and fill it with divinity.