Materials: Bronze. Cast. Gilded face. Consecrated (base can hold sacred objects).

Size: 12cm

Description:

The Influence and Status of Hayagriva in Tibetan Buddhism

Hayagriva (Tibetan: Tamdrin or rta mgrin) is a prominent wrathful deity in Tibetan Buddhism. Regarded as the wrathful manifestation of Avalokiteshvara, he symbolizes the compassion and enlightening words of all Buddhas, particularly the power of the Lotus Speech (Padma gsung). In the Tantric tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, he is classified as a form of Heruka and one of the eight main deities (Kagye) of the Nyingma school, tasked with combating powerful enemies and dispelling obstacles and evil spirits. He holds a high status and is considered the wrathful manifestation of Amitabha Buddha. He represents the discerning wisdom of the Padma family and can quickly eliminate delusion, attachment, and negative forces. He is particularly well-suited for practice during the Dharma Decline Period, such as during modern pandemics or spiritual crises.

In terms of influence, Hayagriva is widely integrated into Tibetan Buddhist art and practice. He is often depicted in thangkas, sculptures, and rituals. He is depicted with a red body, a horse head, and holding a sword and a snake ornament, symbolizing the destruction of internal and external obstacles. He is believed to heal ailments, particularly skin diseases associated with nāgas, such as leprosy. In Tibetan tradition, he is worshipped by horse traders to ward off thieves and evil. Many masters, such as Padmasambhava and Shabkar Rinpoche, and modern lamas like Lama Zopa Rinpoche, have actively promoted his practice. His mantras (such as "OM HRIH VAJRA KRODHA HAYAGRIVA HULU HULU HUM PHAT") are considered powerful tools of protection and can be chanted even without initiation. Monasteries such as Sera Monastery maintain a dedicated "Hayagriva Very Secret" tradition. Overall, Hayagriva is not only a guardian deity in Tibetan Buddhism but also a symbol of wrathful compassion, exerting a profound influence on the spiritual protection and wisdom awakening of believers.

The Mythology of Hayagriva

The myth of Hayagriva dates back to the early days of Indian Buddhism. He initially appeared as a yaksha attendant of Avalokitesvara and later evolved into his wrathful incarnation. This may be influenced by pre-Buddhist influences, such as the ancient Aryan worship of the horse, which was seen as a symbol of divine power. In Tibetan Buddhism, his story is integrated into tantric narratives, emphasizing legends associated with cosmic battles.

One key myth involves Hayagriva and Vajravarahi (also known as Tröma Nagmo) teaming up to defeat Rudra, a symbol of ego and demonic forces. The story depicts the devastation caused by Rudra, when Vajrasattva, in the form of Hayagriva, enters Rudra's body, destroying him from within and scattering his remains with the "three neighs of the horse," creating sixty-four sacred places. Another version depicts Vajrasattva seducing Rudra's wife, leading Hayagriva to reincarnate as Vajrarakshasha, who subdues and purifies Rudra, transforming him into a Dharma protector. Rudra's body is then worn by Hayagriva as an ornament. This symbolizes overcoming attachment and desire, transforming negativity into positive energy.

Another legend holds that Amitabha Buddha incarnated as the green Hayagriva to subdue the demon Dregs Byod Tshogs Sprul, who caused widespread harm and was annihilated by Hayagriva's power. Furthermore, in Tibetan legend, Hayagriva is closely associated with Guru Padmasambhava, who incarnated as Hayagriva to subdue evil spirits and bestow power upon King Gesar's divine horse. These stories evolved from the Hindu horse-headed incarnation of Vishnu (who restored the Vedas), but Tibetan Buddhism emphasizes its compassionate and wise aspects. The myth of Hayagriva reflects Buddhist integration with indigenous mythology, emphasizing the wrathful form as a vehicle of compassion to protect the Dharma and sentient beings.