Vajrasattva: The Embodiment of Unshakable Bodhicitta

Vajrasattva, also known as Dorje Sempa, is a significant figure in Vajrayana Buddhism. His names include Vajra-holder, Diamond Hand, and Diamond Mind. The term “Sattva” signifies a sentient being or hero, generally denoting a courageous great being.

The name Vajrasattva symbolizes the ‘indestructible Bodhicitta,’ a mind of enlightenment, and ‘the profound principle that afflictions are none other than wisdom.’

The Symbolic Form of Vajrasattva

Vajrasattva’s body is as pure white as ten million suns shining on a snowy mountain. He has one face and two arms. His right hand holds a five-pronged vajra (a ritual scepter) at his chest, while his left hand holds a bell at his hip. He is adorned with thirteen kinds of complete Sambhogakaya (enjoyment body) ornaments. He sits in the vajra posture with his legs crossed, radiating immeasurable, pure white light of wisdom that illuminates all directions.

Vajrasattva’s body appears like a reflection in water or a mirror, clearly visible yet devoid of inherent existence.

The Symbolism of the Vajra and Bell

According to the inner tantras of the Secret Mantra tradition, the vajra in his right hand symbolizes the ultimate, indestructible vajra or skillful means. The five prongs at the top represent the Five Buddhas, and the five prongs at the bottom represent the Five Buddha Mothers. The lotus petals above and below represent the Bodhisattvas and Bodhisattva Mothers, while the garland of pearls signifies the peaceful deities. The circular handle in the center represents the supreme realm of Dharma, free from all conceptual elaborations.

The bell in his left hand represents supreme wisdom. The upper part of the bell depicts the face of the Vajradhatu (diamond realm) Mother, and the half-vajra above it represents the union of bliss and emptiness. The eight lotus petals on the bell bear eight seed syllables, symbolizing all the Buddha Mothers and Bodhisattva Mothers, aside from the Vajradhatu Mother. The half and full necklaces, as well as the two circles of horizontal and vertical vajras, signify the adorning of supreme wisdom with skillful means. Some bells contain the syllables Om, Ah, Hung, representing the body, speech, and mind of the Buddhas. The clapper represents the source of great bliss or the wisdom that realizes it. The circular space inside the bell symbolizes the empty realm of Dharma, which is free from all conceptual elaborations.

Symbolic Aspects of Vajrasattva’s Body

• Hairknot: Symbolizes the non-confusion from the beginning and the great wisdom held within his continuum.

• One Face: Represents the single, ultimate point of truth, Dharmakaya.

• Two Eyes: Represent the wisdom of knowing the suchness of things as they are and the wisdom of knowing the diversity of things.

• Two Ears: Symbolize the non-duality of the two truths (relative and absolute).

• Two Nostrils: Represent the spontaneous accomplishment of benefit for oneself and others.

• Lips: Represent equal great bliss.

• Teeth: Symbolize the complete mandala of the forty-two peaceful deities.

• Tongue: Represents the pervasiveness of equality between Samsara and Nirvana.

• Two Arms: Represent the non-duality of wisdom and skillful means.

• Ten Fingers: Symbolize the Five Bodies and Five Wisdoms.

• Two Feet: Represent non-abiding in the extremes of Samsara and Nirvana.

• Twelve Joints: Represent the purification of the twelve links of dependent origination.

• Ten Toes: Symbolize the completion of the Five Buddhas and Five Buddha Mothers.

• Vajra Posture: Represents the absence of change in the three times (past, present, and future).

This detailed symbolism shows how the image of Vajrasattva is a powerful reminder of the potential for transformation and enlightenment that lies within all beings.