Deities in Tibetan Buddhism (1)

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The Three Deities of Longevity

The "Three Deities of Longevity" are highly revered in Tibetan Buddhism. These are Amitayus, Ushnishavijaya, and White Tara. They are known for their association with long life, health, and wisdom. These Buddhist divinities are often invoked for blessings. They are also important for spiritual practice.

Amitayus: The Buddha of Immeasurable Life

Amitayus, also called the Long Life Buddha, is a central figure. He has a red body and one head with two arms. His hair is in a topknot. It is adorned with a five-Buddha crown. He wears celestial garments and a silk skirt. Jeweled ornaments decorate his body. All these represent the splendor of a Sambhogakaya Buddha. His hands form a meditation mudra. They hold a longevity vase in his lap. He sits in the vajra posture. This posture is on a lotus and moon disc. He is surrounded by four Dakinis. These Dakinis embody pacifying, increasing, magnetizing, and wrathful activities. Moreover, they gather the essences of the five elements, life force, merit, and wisdom.

Ushnishavijaya: The Victorious Mother

Ushnishavijaya, or the Victorious Mother, is another important deity. Tibetans call her “Langjue Ma.” She alleviates suffering. This Bodhisattva has nine manifestations. Her most common form has three faces and eight arms. The Mother appears dignified and compassionate. She wears jeweled necklaces and elegant clothes. She sits in the lotus position. Her seat is a lotus throne. Ushnishavijaya is known for her protective qualities. She also helps in purification and spiritual progress.

White Tara: The Mother of Longevity and Salvation

White Tara, known as Drolma Karmo in Tibetan, is also significant. People call her the Mother of Longevity and Salvation. She is an emanation of Avalokiteśvara. Her body is as pure as snow. Her face is serene and dignified. She has eyes on her hands, feet, and face. This gives her the name "Seven-Eyed Mother." The eye on her forehead observes the Buddha lands. The other six eyes watch beings in the six realms. White Tara symbolizes the power of all Buddhas. Furthermore, she represents the attainment of Buddhahood. Her white color shows wisdom. Her implements symbolize the deliverance from rebirth.

Palden Lhamo: The Glorious Goddess

Palden Lhamo, or Glorious Goddess, has Sanskrit name Laksmī. Tibetans call her "Bandalhamo." She is a protector deity in Tibetan Buddhism. She was originally from Indian mythology. She was born when the gods churned the milk ocean. Later, Hinduism transformed her into a goddess of merit. She is the consort of Vishnu. She is also the sister of Vaishravana. She eventually became a Buddhist protector. Palden Lhamo appears in two forms: peaceful and wrathful. These forms represent different aspects of her power.

Peaceful Form of Palden Lhamo

The peaceful form of Palden Lhamo appears white in color. She has a high bun and a floral crown. She has large earrings and three kind eyes. Her mouth is slightly open. She wears a white cloak over a crimson robe. She wears red boots on her feet. She sits on a lotus throne. Her right hand holds a long white arrow. The arrow has feathers. Her left hand holds a bowl full of jewels. This form represents her benevolence and nurturing side.

Wrathful Form of Palden Lhamo

The wrathful form of Palden Lhamo is fierce with a blue-green complexion. Her red hair stands upright. She wears five skulls, a moon, and peacock feathers. Her right ear has a small lion. This symbolizes listening to teachings. Her left ear has a small snake. This signifies wrath. She wears a ledger on her waist. This ledger records wrongdoings. She holds a skull club and a skull bowl with blood. She wears a flayed human skin, which symbolizes righteousness. She rides a yellow mule. There are dice in front of the saddle, one red and one white. Behind the saddle is a bag of plague germs. This signifies her control over life and death. This form represents her fierce protection and justice.

Sarasvati: The Goddess of Melody

Sarasvati, the Goddess of Eloquence, is vital in Tibetan Buddhism. She embodies wisdom and arts. She is also known as a divine being in Tibetan Buddhism. Her main attribute is the Indian veena lute. In thangkas, Sarasvati is adorned in luxurious clothing. She sits in the center of a lotus holding a lute. Flute and drum-playing goddesses flank her. They accompany her with music. Sarasvati’s depiction reflects her association with arts and knowledge.

Sarasvati is a wisdom deity appearing in female form. Her Sanskrit name means "she who possesses essence." She is a deity of the Sanskrit language. Students of Sanskrit often practice her. This is to ensure progress in their studies. Moreover, she bestows various kinds of wisdom and artistic talent. People who study arts, literature, and music benefit from practicing her. Therefore, this makes her an essential Buddhist divinity. Her influence spans many creative and intellectual fields. She is a source of inspiration and clarity. Furthermore, she is important for gaining insight and understanding.

The various deities within Tibetan Buddhism offer a profound insight. They offer insight into the rich spiritual landscape. Each deity embodies different qualities. They each represent important aspects of the path to enlightenment. Moreover, they serve as powerful sources of inspiration. They help practitioners on their spiritual journey. Through study and practice, devotees can connect with these divine beings. By doing this, they can cultivate their own inner wisdom and compassion. Therefore, understanding the Buddhist deities enriches our appreciation. This is for the vastness of Tibetan Buddhist traditions. Furthermore, it offers valuable insights into spiritual and religious practice.