Manjushri with Vajrapani Tibetan Thangka

Manjushri with Vajrapani Tibetan Thangka is a handmade Buddhist piece crafted in Kathmandu, Nepal. It measures 40*55 cm and is painted on cotton canvas.

Manjushri is depicted as the focal point of a thangka, with Vajrapani and Chenrezig positioned at the bottom right and left corners respectively.

Iconography of Manjushri

Manjushri is the Bodhisattva who holds a flaming sword of enlightenment in his left hand, symbolizing his wisdom to cut through ignorance and false beliefs. His right hand is depicted holding a stem of a Blue Lotus flower on which rests the Book of Perfection of Transcendental Wisdom, signifying his teaching.

Mantra of Manjushri

The mantra of Manjushri is Om A Ra Pa Ca Na Dhih.

Iconography of Chenrezig

Chenrezig is depicted in the lower left corner of Manjushri’s thangka. This deity is often represented with different numbers of faces and arms, as well as various colors and accessories. He is seated atop a lotus flower, with the flat disc of the moon beneath him and another moon disk behind him, symbolizing his perfect purity.

Two of his four arms are joined in the prayer position holding the wish-fulfilling gem. In his other left hand, he holds a lotus flower and in his other right hand, there is a crystal mala which he is using to count the repetitions of his mantra.

Mantra of Chenrezig

The Mantra of Chenrezig is Om Mani Padme Hum.

Iconography of Vajrapani

Vajrapani is situated in the lower right corner of Manjushri in the thangka painting. He is one of the earliest bodhisattvas of Mahayana Buddhism and is seen as the protector and guide of the Buddha, symbolizing the power of the enlightened one.

Vajrapani is depicted energetically dancing within a ring of fire, signifying transformation. His right hand holds a vajra, symbolizing the power to break through the illusions of ignorance.Vajrapani looks wrathful, but as a representation of the enlightened mind. He is completely free from hatred.

Mantra of Vajrapani

The mantra of Vajrapani is om vajrapani hum phat.