Material: Cloth . Printing . Scroll . ( Vajrayogini )

Size: Approx. 122 x 83 cm

Description:

**The meaning of Vajrayogini**

Vajrayogini (Vajrayogini), also known as Vajrayogini, is an important deity in Vajrayana Buddhism (Tantra) and belongs to the Dakini system. She is regarded as the "Mother of Buddhas" and the "Mother of All Wisdom", symbolizing the state of bliss and emptiness, and embodying the spiritual essence of Prajnaparamita (wisdom). Vajrayogini's essence is the same as that of Cakrasaṃvara, and she is his consort, representing the high wisdom and compassion that transforms worldly love into the path of spiritual liberation. She is revered in all four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism (Nyingma, Kagyu, Sakya, and Gelug), and is especially important in the Kagyu school as a practice deity. She is often used in the meditation of the highest yoga tantras such as Vase Breathing and Tummo.

The image of Vajrayogini is usually red, naked, with one face, two arms, and three eyes. She holds a vajra crescent knife in her right hand, symbolizing the cutting of ignorance; she holds a skull cup in her left hand, representing the combination of wisdom and compassion; she wears skull ornaments, symbolizing impermanence and transcendence of the secular world. She stands in a dancing posture, showing dynamic energy and freedom, and the surrounding red flames symbolize transformation and purification. Her practice is believed to help practitioners quickly achieve enlightenment, especially suitable for modern people to transform troubles into the path of Bodhi.

**The origin of the image of Vajrayogini**

The image of Vajrayogini originated in India from the 8th to the 12th century and is closely related to the Cakrasaṃvara Tantra. According to tradition, the Buddha Vajradhara, in order to subdue the evil ways of Mahesvara (Shiva), took on the form of Chakrasamvara and Vajrayogini, and taught the secret methods of Anuttara Yoga. This tantra was passed down in India by great accomplished masters such as Saraha, Nagarjuna, and Naropa, and was introduced to Tibet in the 11th century, becoming an important practice of Tibetan Buddhism.

Her image design follows the description of the tantric classics, aiming to guide practitioners into deep meditation through visualization. Every detail in the image, such as color, posture, and ritual implements, has deep symbolic meaning. For example, red represents compassion and attraction, the skull ornament reminds of impermanence, and the crescent knife symbolizes wisdom to cut off troubles. These images are mostly painted by senior monks or thangka painters according to the tantric specifications, and are often used in initiations, meditation, and ritual ceremonies. The three main existing traditions - Naro Khandro, Mitse, and Enza - have slight differences, but the core image and meaning are the same.

**Summary**

Vajrayogini is the supreme yoga deity in Tibetan Buddhism, symbolizing wisdom and compassion. Her image originated from the Indian Tantric tradition and was passed down to Tibet through the Heruka Tantra. Her image and practice methods are designed to help practitioners transform their afflictions and realize emptiness. She is the core deity in the Kagyu tradition. Her image is not only an artistic expression, but also a sacred object that guides practitioners into the state of liberation.

Vajrayogini (printed thangka in cloth frame)