Vajrapani

Dimensions: height 31.5 cm width 22.5 cm depth 12 cm

Material: Bronze

Vajrapani with the vajra symbol is the spiritual son of Dhyani Buddha Akshobhya, who is the progenitor of the Vajra family. His spiritual mother is Mamaki. Vajrapani is also known as the god of rain. It is said that when the Naga (serpent) appeared before the Buddha to hear his teachings, Vajrapani was instructed by Tathagata to protect them from the attacks of their mortal enemies, the Garudas. To deceive and fight the Garudas, Vajrapani took on a form with a head, wings, and claws like the Garudas themselves. Hence, Vajrapani as the protector of the Nagas is considered the God of rain. Therefore, northern Buddhists appeal to him when rain is needed or is too abundant. Vajrapani can also be found in Garuda form among the various forms of Vajrapani. Vajrapani, when depicted, stands or sits and usually carries a lotus on which the symbol of the Vajra family is placed. Sometimes, he holds the Vajra against his chest in one of his hands.