Jambhala Thangka is a traditional Tibetan painting that depicts the deity Jambhala, who is one of the many gods of wealth in Tibetan Buddhism. Jambhala is a protective deity associated with wealth and prosperity, and is believed to be the protector of all lineages and all sentient beings from all sickness and difficulties.
There are several different forms of Jambhala, each with their own unique characteristics and symbols.
Yellow Jambhala
The most popular embodiment of Jambhala is Yellow Jambhala, who is typically seated with his right leg in the panhandle and his left leg pulled in. He is adorned with the crown and jewels of a Bodhisattva and has a large protruding stomach. His most unique feature is the Mongoose Nehulay that is always seen perched in his left hand, which represents Jambhala’s subjugation of the nagas (snakes) and his ability to spew forth precious jewels and treasures. In his right hand and at the base of the statue are medicinal citron fruits that are believed to have healing properties such as relieving fever.
White Jambhala
White Jambhala is another popular form of the deity, and is born from the right eye of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva. According to the Sutra, his mantra can stop suffering, destroy bad karma, and avert disaster and sickness. White Jambhala is usually depicted sitting on a snow lion, and in his left hand he holds a mongoose that spits out precious diamonds and ornaments.
Black Jambhala
Black Jambhala is the manifestation of Buddha Akshobhaya, and is also known as the chief of the five great Jambhalas. He is said to have given people wealth and happiness, and is known as one of the Hindu gods of wealth, Kubera. Black Jambhala is usually depicted standing upon a corpse and holding a mongoose in his left hand and a Kapala in his right hand.
Red Jambhala
Red Jambhala is the manifestation of Vajrasattva, and is depicted with two faces and four arms. He holds a treasury mongoose in his left hand, and is also known as Red Ganpati. If one chants his mantra sincerely, it is believed that one will be protected by him and also gain wealth.
Green Jambhala
Finally, Green Jambhala is the manifestation of Amoghasiddhi Buddham, and is depicted as being green in color. He made a vow in front of Buddha Sakyamuni that he would protect anyone who chanted his mantra or name, and is believed to enable all endeavors to be perfectly accomplished and purify all bad luck and obstacles, preventing theft, bad debts, and loss of wealth.
In summary, Jambhala Thangka is a traditional Tibetan painting that depicts the deity Jambhala, who is associated with wealth and prosperity. There are several different forms of Jambhala, each with their own unique characteristics and symbols, and all are believed to be able to bring wealth, happiness, and protection to those who honor and worship them.
