Vajra Thunderbolt

A crucial ritual object of Tibetan Buddhism and Hinduism, the Vajra Thunderbolt (Tibetan: Dorje) is a tool having a great deal of mystical symbolism about the nature of the universe and the self and the nature of reality. In Tibetan Buddhist practice, the vajra signifies the male principle of action. This “action” relates to the compassionate activities of the bodhisattva that relieve living beings of their miseries.

In the Sanskrit language, “vajra” means both “thunderbolt” and “diamond.” The thunderbolt is originally a weapon of the Hindu rain god Indra. As a thunderbolt weapon, the vajra destroys both internal and external enemies. Similarly, like a sturdy diamond, the vajra destroys, but it itself remains indestructible. Thus, the vajra is an indestructible instrument that has the ability to split through ignorance, greed, anger, cruelty, etc., and illuminate the surrounding through the path of enlightenment. 

Shown here is a vajra that is handmade in the Himalayan region of Nepal. Made from brass, this vajra is sturdy, durable, and lead-free. It doesn’t fade, rust, or tarnish.

Ritual

During rituals, the vajra is often used together with the bell, where monks hold the vajra in the right hand and the bell in the left. Combined together, the vajra and the bell symbolises enlightenment as they embody the union of all dualities: bliss and emptiness, compassion and wisdom, male and female, and so on. Therefore, for complete ritual practice, you might want to check out Tibetan Ritual Bell as well.