ABR 012
Code: ABR 012
Country: Tibet (central)
Style:
Date: 1000 - 1100
Dimensions in cm WxHxD: 8.5 x 28 x 8.5
Materials: Iron
Five-pronged diamond sceptre
The vajra (Skt.) - dorje (Tib.) is generally translated as "diamond sceptre" or as "thunderbolt". The vajra also symbolises the male principle, which finds its complement in the female symbol of the bell (ghanta). Contrary to Western expectations, the male principle is compassion, while the female principle is wisdom and knowledge of the ultimate voidness of all things. Together they symbolise the "skilful means". This pair occupies the first place in the hierarchy of ritual objects.
According to a Tibetan tradition, the metal used to make ritual objects (especially the iron) comes from meteorites. These are often to be found on the Tibetan plateau.
Vajras can have three, five or nine prongs.
The vajra (Skt.) - dorje (Tib.) is generally translated as "diamond sceptre" or as "thunderbolt". The vajra also symbolises the male principle, which finds its complement in the female symbol of the bell (ghanta). Contrary to Western expectations, the male principle is compassion, while the female principle is wisdom and knowledge of the ultimate voidness of all things. Together they symbolise the "skilful means". This pair occupies the first place in the hierarchy of ritual objects.
According to a Tibetan tradition, the metal used to make ritual objects (especially the iron) comes from meteorites. These are often to be found on the Tibetan plateau.
Vajras can have three, five or nine prongs.