Vajrasattva, "the diamond being", is the Buddha of purification in Tibetan Buddhism. His practice, the recitation of his hundred-syllable mantra, is one of the foundational practices of every Tibetan school, done to purify past harmful actions and to restore broken commitments.
How he is shown
- White, the colour of purity, seated in full meditation posture on a lotus and moon disc.
- His right hand holds a vajra at his heart: the indestructible, awakened mind, and skilful method.
- His left hand holds a bell at his hip: wisdom and emptiness.
- The silks, jewels and crown of a bodhisattva, which mark him as a Buddha in his enjoyment form.
Vajrasattva with consort
He is also painted in union with his consort, Vajratopa (also called Vajragarvi), who holds a curved knife and a skull cup. Together they show the union of method and wisdom. Several of our paintings show this form.
His mantra
The full mantra has a hundred syllables. The short form is Om Vajrasattva Hum.
In a painting
Look for a smooth, luminous white, which is hard to paint well; the crossing of the vajra and bell; and fine detail in the crown and jewellery.
