Jambhala is the Buddhist deity of wealth. In Tibetan Buddhism his practice is less about getting rich than about generosity: relieving poverty so that people can live well, give to others and practise. He is closely linked to Vaishravana, guardian king of the north, and to the Hindu god of wealth Kubera, which is why in Nepal he is often called Kuber.
Yellow Jambhala
The most common form in thangkas:
- Golden-yellow and plump, a sign of abundance, seated on a lotus and moon disc.
- His right leg is extended, the foot often resting on a white conch shell.
- His right hand holds a citron fruit (bijapuraka).
- His left hand holds a mongoose spitting jewels from its mouth, the wealth that he gives away.
- Silks, jewels and a crown, often with treasures and jewels heaped around him.
The five Jambhalas
Tibetan tradition describes five Jambhalas, each with a different colour: yellow, white, black, red and green. White Jambhala rides a dragon or a snow lion; Black Jambhala is wrathful and stands. Some thangkas show all five together, with Yellow Jambhala at the centre.
His mantra
For Yellow Jambhala: Om Jambhala Jalendraye Soha.
In a painting
Look for a lively mongoose, finely painted jewels, and a warm, composed face. Jambhala is a popular gift for a new home or a new business, as a wish for generosity and good fortune.
