Deities in Tibetan Buddhism (7): The Five Dzambhala|Jambhala

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Understanding the Five Dzambhalas (Jambhalas)

Within Tibetan Buddhism, the concept of wealth deities is significant. Among these, Yellow Dzambhala stands out as the embodiment of prosperity. It is believed that he arises from the Buddha's merits. He has the power to eliminate poverty caused by greed and negative actions. The qualities of Yellow Dzambhala, including his mind, speech, and actions, further manifest into the Five Dzambhalas. Therefore, each aspect of this deity is represented by a different form. These are: Yellow Dzambhala (mind), Red Dzambhala (speech), White Dzambhala (body), Black Dzambhala (meritorious activity), and Green Dzambhala (virtue). Ultimately, Yellow Dzambhala is considered the combined manifestation of all wealth deities.[1]

The Significance of Yellow Dzambhala

Yellow Dzambhala, known as "Norla" in Tibetan, which means "wealth deity." In Chinese, it also translates to wealth deity. He is also referred to as "Dzambhala Serpo" or "Dzambala Ser." His name comes from his yellow complexion. He is a protector deity in esoteric Buddhism and the chief of all wealth deities. Moreover, he is one of the five Dzambhalas venerated by major Tibetan Buddhist schools. He is very important in Tibetan Buddhist practices for those seeking wealth.

He is typically depicted with one face and two arms. His body is stout and powerful with golden yellow skin. In his right hand, he holds a wish-fulfilling jewel. His left hand gently holds a jewel-spitting mongoose. Additionally, he wears a five-Buddha crown, heavenly garments, and blue lotuses, as well as jeweled ornaments. He also has an Upala rosary around his chest. Yellow Dzambhala sits in a royal ease posture on a lotus and moon disc, with his left leg bent and his right foot lightly stepping on a conch shell.

The Power of Red Dzambhala

Red Dzambhala is a wealth deity that holds immense importance in the Sakya school's tantric practices. His red skin gives him his name. He is considered to be a deity of immeasurable merit. He is also a significant figure for those seeking prosperity through tantric practices.

Red Dzambhala typically has a red complexion, one face, two arms, and three eyes. His crown is adorned with jewels. His right hand holds a wish-fulfilling jewel at his chest. His left hand holds either a jewel-spitting mongoose or a skull cup. Also, he is often depicted embracing his consort, who is similar in form. She also holds a skull cup filled with nectar. Therefore, his image reflects the union of wisdom and compassion.

Another form of Red Dzambhala comes from the terma lineage of Guru Rinpoche. This form was discovered by the monk Yonsi. It was transmitted by the master Dromi from Gayadhara to Tibet. In this form, Red Dzambhala has three faces, six arms, and four legs. His two eyes are both joyful and wrathful. The center face is red, the right face is white, and the left face is blue. His hands hold a jewel-spitting mongoose. The other hands hold three jewels, an iron hook, a skull cup, and a rope. He also wears eight dragons, jewels, a silk crown, and a flower garland. He is standing on a lotus and moon disc, with legs bent to the right, and with wealth deities under his feet.

The Compassion of White Dzambhala

White Dzambhala, also known as White Treasure King, is considered a compassionate manifestation of Avalokiteshvara. He is also one of the five protector wealth deities of Tibetan Tantra. In Tibetan, he is called "Garpob" or "Karpo," meaning "White Dzambhala." He is also known as the Dragon-Riding Dzambhala Vajra because he rides a dragon. His virtues include dispelling sickness, removing all poverty, and enriching beings. Therefore, he is a beacon of hope for those in need.

This deity's body is as white as a snow mountain. It symbolizes the removal of all defilements caused by poverty. He has one head, two arms, and three round eyes. His countenance is benevolent, with a hint of wrath. Additionally, his hair is reddish-orange and curly. His right hand holds a treasure stick in the air. His left hand holds a jewel-spitting mongoose. Also, his left arm carries a trident. He wears a jeweled crown, a colored ribbon, and celestial robes. He sits in a playful posture on the back of a blue dragon. This posture represents the liberation from poverty.

The Power of Black Dzambhala

Black Dzambhala, known as "Nakpo" in Tibetan, is the Vajra Akshobhya Buddha of the East. He is one of the wealth deities of Tibetan Buddhism. He evolved from the ancient Indian wealth deity Kubera. Also, he is known as "Nagpo" in Tibetan. He is manifested to benefit beings and to liberate them from poverty. Therefore, he is a powerful figure in the Buddhist pantheon.

This deity has a short, stout body with a large, auspicious belly. He has red hair and black skin. Moreover, he is naked, with three round eyes. His hair, beard, and eyebrows are fiery red. He wears a jeweled crown. He is also adorned with jeweled ornaments and eight dragon kings. His genitals are erect. His back is surrounded by a halo. His right hand holds a skull cup with blood. His left hand grasps a jewel-spitting mongoose. He stands on a lotus and moon disc. His right leg is bent, and his left leg is extended.

The Benevolence of Green Dzambhala

Green Dzambhala is a manifestation of the Western Amitabha Buddha. He appeared to benefit all beings and liberate them from poverty. In Tibetan, he is called "Wobpo." His name comes from his green complexion. Also, he is a wealth deity and protector in the Bon religion. He is especially beneficial for business. Additionally, he is one of the five Dzambhalas. Therefore, he is a key figure in both Buddhist and Bon traditions.

Green Dzambhala has one face, two arms, and two wide-open eyes. He wears a jeweled crown and celestial robes. His right hand holds a wish-fulfilling jewel. This symbolizes safe financial gains. His left hand grasps a jewel-spitting mongoose. This symbolizes the increase of fortune. His left leg is bent inward. His right foot steps on a conch shell. He is embracing his consort. She holds a nectar-filled bowl and a wish-fulfilling jewel. He sits in a royal ease posture on a lotus and moon disc. His virtues are to bring success, purify negative karma, and bestow wealth.