Significance of Vajra
Synonyms: Thunderbolt, Diamond, Mace, Scepter, Lightning, Indestructible, Unbreakable, Weapon, Adamantine, Weapon of indra
In Dutch: Vajra; In German: Vajra; In Finnish: Vajra; In Spanish: Vajra; In Swedish: Vajra; In Malay: Vajra; In French: Vajra; In Portugese: Vajra; In Italian: Vajra; In Polish: Wadżra
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Vajra'
The keyphrase "Vajra in Buddhism" symbolizes indestructibility, spiritual power, and enlightenment. It is associated with various deities, rituals, and practices, representing the ultimate nature of reality, the cutting of suffering, and the transformative essence of spiritual pursuits.
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) A symbol in Tibetan Buddhism representing the indestructible nature of reality and enlightenment.[1] (2) A character in the lineage identified as the brahmani, bram ze mo rdo rje.[2] (3) A central element of many Tantric practices learned by rin po che chos rgyal ba.[3]
From: The gods of northern Buddhism
(1) A symbol of indestructibility and spiritual power in Buddhism, often held by figures like Padmasambhava.[4] (2) A symbolic weapon associated with thunderbolt and represents spiritual power, often held by various Yi-dams.[5] (3) A symbol representing thunderbolt and firmness, held by figures such as Vajradhara and Vajrasattva.[6] (4) A symbolic object representing thunder and the indestructibility of the spiritual truth in Buddhism, often held by Vajrapani.[7]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) It is diamond, used as a metaphor to describe the true nature of dharmas as indestructible and unchangeable, representing a form of subtle wisdom.[8] (2) Also known as thunderbolt, a small thunderbolt is able to break up a big mountain thanks to magical power.[9] (3) This substance is much more solid than the Earth, and nothing can surpass it; it plunges into the water, and the naga kings offer this solid substance to the Buddha, providing a solid support for him.[10]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) "Vajra" means "indestructible", and the initial thought of vajra is the first step towards being like vajra, as explained in the text.[11]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) A symbol of indestructibility in Buddhism, often emerging from the seed syllable and representing the ultimate nature of reality in meditation.[12] (2) A symbol representing indestructibility and spiritual power in tantric practices, often associated with deities and rituals.[13] (3) Symbolic weapons in Buddhist tradition representing indestructibility and the power to transform ignorance into enlightenment.[14]
From: Hualin International Journal of Buddhist Studies
(1) Vajra is a ritual object or symbol used in Esoteric Buddhism, appearing in phrases like Vajraparamita, and is associated with specific deities and practices within the rituals.[15]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) A symbol of indestructibility and the unbreakable nature of truth and moral conduct in Buddhism.[16]
Hindu concept of 'Vajra'
In Hinduism, Vajra symbolizes divine power and strength through its association with Indra’s thunderbolt weapon, used in battles against demons. It represents both spiritual authority and physical might, crucial for rituals and overcoming adversities.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) It is the immovable array designed by the wielder of the thunder-bolt, which Dhananjaya will make.[17] (2) One of the many sons of Visvamitra, who were versed in the knowledge of Brahma.[18] (3) The Vajra, made from the bone of Rishi Dadhichi, was respected by the king of birds, as stated in the provided text.[19] (4) A powerful weapon associated with Indra, used to strike down Vritra, causing significant destruction.[20]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) Vajra was Aniruddha’s son, who Arjuna made the king of Indraprastha after arriving there following the events.[21] (2) A term referring to something hard or indomitable, representing the strength of devotion.[22] (3) Indra's thunderbolt weapon, used to strike opponents in the battle against Mahisha's forces.[23]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) The name of the city that is a significant location within the narrative.[24]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 3: Metals, Gems and other substances
(1) Another name for diamond, signifying its role as an increaser of longevity and a curer of all diseases.[25] (2) An iron type considered a thousand times more effective than Bhadra.[26]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 4: Iatrochemistry
(1) It is one of the principal medicines like sarveshvara, vijaya, rasa, rasendra, sutendra, and jivendra, which can cure all sorts of fevers if properly applied.[27]
From: Shat-cakra-nirupana (the six bodily centres)
(1) The Vajra (thunderbolt) is held in the hands of He (Bija of Fire), who is four-armed, seated on a ram, red in colour and makes the signs of Vara and of Abhaya.[28] (2) The thunderbolt wielded by Arddha-narishvara, representing indestructibility and the power of enlightenment.[29] (3) A key element inside the Sushumna, which signifies strength and clarity, extending between various regions of the body.[30]
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences
(1) It is one of the Uparasas, which are explained in the text.[31] (2) This is a specific substance or preparation mentioned in the text, used in the management of conditions related to Ashuddha Bhasma.[32]
From: International Research Journal of Ayurveda and Yoga
(1) It is associated with kushtha, parshvashool, and pandu, managed with cow’s milk with sugar.[33]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The thunderbolt hurled by Indra-deva at Shri Hanuman to protect Surya-deva, causing Hanuman to fall and become unconscious.[34]
Jain concept of 'Vajra'
In Jainism, Vajra may represent a rare material taken by Harinegamesi, while also symbolizing strength and the diamond-like qualities of teaching and philosophical integrity.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Vajra was a branch that took place in the tree of the Kotika order, signifying a division or sub-group within the larger community, reflecting its development.[35] (2) A term that may symbolize strength or diamond-like qualities in terms of teaching or philosophical integrity.[36]
From: Kalpa-sutra (Lives of the Jinas)
(1) A precious material that Harinegamesi seized.[37]
The concept of Vajra in local and regional sources
Vajra, in this context, signifies a king's son known for his steadfast faith. He played a crucial role in establishing a sangharama, indicating his commitment to spiritual infrastructure and leadership within the region.
From: Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)
(1) This is the king's son, who came to the throne in succession and was possessed of a heart firm in the faith, and built on the west side of the convent a sangharama.[38]
The concept of Vajra in scientific sources
Vajra signifies the potent purgative effect of Snuhi, metaphorically compared to a diamond's formidable strength, emphasizing its capability to create significant changes or cleansing effects.
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) These items are used to intimidate, but not always tame, the wrathful ones.[39]