Seated in padmasana on a high, multi-pedestal throne, supported by two lions and numerous auspicious vases, and the Dharmachakra with its eight spokes inscribed at the center is Vajrasattva. Sattva means a 'sentient being,' and vajra of course is the quintessential symbol of Tibetan Buddhism, representing its indestructible power. His right hand holds a five-pronged vajra, which symbolizes the five Dhyani Buddhas. Here it is interesting to observe that Vajrasattva is considered by some to be the sixth Dhyani Buddha and the priest of the group. His left hand is placed on the corresponding thigh, holding a vajra-ghanta (bell). When paired with each other, these two ritual implements take on an added significance. The vajra represents the compassion of the Buddha, the masculine principle; and the bell symbolizes wisdom, the female principle. To achieve creative enlightenment, these two elements must be combined. The bell is visualized as the Buddha's body, the vajra as his mind. The sound of the bell is believed to be the Buddha's speech in teaching of the dharma.
During meditation on Vajrasattva, a vajra is placed on the chest of the practitioner, meaning that Vajrasattva is brought to the meditator, and they become one and inseparable. Ringing a bell then represents the sound of Buddha teaching the dharma and symbolizes the attainment of wisdom and the understanding of emptiness.
Vajrasattva's body is slender and lissom. There is a sacred mark between the eyebrows, representing wisdom. His neck has three folds, which are derived from the auspicious conch shell blown at Buddhist ceremonies, and which signify the sweetness of his own speech. The sensitive and thin red lips lend a pleasant character to the facial expression, while the five-pronged crown and the numerous jewels adorning his from celebrate his pre-eminent status in the Buddhist pantheon, a fact which is reaffirmed by the high throne forming his seat and the finely crafted golden, flaming aureole at the background.
This sculpture was created by Shri Madan Prajapati of Lalitpur (Patan), belonging to a traditional family of sculptors.
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