The Guardian Deities Corresponding to the Twelve Zodiac Animals in Thangka

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Thangka is a type of scroll painting primarily focused on religious themes. It is not only an aesthetically pleasing artwork but also an important tool for Buddhist practitioners in their spiritual practice. For believers, offering or repairing a thangka is an act of accumulating merit. Practitioners view the holy images depicted in the thangka as objects for meditation and worship, and hang them on the walls or pillars of temples, Buddhist halls, homes, or monasteries. The charm of thangka transcends its form and size, being a labor of the artisan, a spiritual expression of the creator, and a tool for the devout to rely on for their practice and spiritual journey.

The thangkas often depict various forms of Buddha and other deities, each offering different forms of blessings. How can one select a thangka that suits them? A helpful way is to choose one based on your zodiac sign. In this article, we’ll share the guardian deities in thangka corresponding to each of the twelve zodiac animals.

For the Year of the Rat: Thousand-Armed Avalokiteshvara

Thousand-Armed Avalokiteshvara is a symbol of great compassion. When you offer worship to her, she will silently protect you, helping you overcome illnesses and difficulties. During prosperous times, she will further enhance your success, while in times of misfortune, she will dissolve calamities and obstacles, helping you navigate challenges and achieve peace, prosperity, and happiness throughout your life.

For the Year of the Ox and Tiger: Four-Armed Avalokiteshvara

The Four-Armed Avalokiteshvara embodies the same compassion, skill, and vows as Avalokiteshvara. In Tibetan Buddhism, the Four-Armed Avalokiteshvara is one of the primary bodhisattvas. People born in the Year of the Ox tend to have financial luck, excel in social interactions, and possess skilled hands, but their fortune may be weak in middle age, gradually improving later. Those born in the Year of the Tiger are often regarded with respect, are intelligent, and destined for greatness. Though they may face many difficulties in their youth, their fortunes improve after thirty, and they can accumulate wealth. Offering sincere devotion to the Four-Armed Avalokiteshvara can bring smooth financial paths, wealth, and the protection of benefactors, while warding off harmful people.

For the Year of the Rabbit: Manjushri Bodhisattva

Manjushri represents supreme wisdom and enhances understanding and intellect. It is particularly beneficial for children, assisting them in their studies. Officials who offer worship to Manjushri will receive increased blessings of wealth and rank, while merchants will benefit from increased prosperity. This guardian deity helps those born in the Year of the Rabbit increase their creativity and intellect, enabling them to overcome competitors and achieve career success.

For the Year of the Dragon and Snake: Vajrasattva (Vajrasadhu)

For those born in the Year of the Dragon or Snake, sincerely worshipping and offering devotion to Vajrasattva (the embodiment of Samantabhadra Bodhisattva) can bring longevity, protection from disasters, and unexpected blessings. It helps you realize your deepest wishes, increase leadership authority, remove obstacles, and live a fulfilled and happy life.

For the Year of the Horse: Vajrapani Bodhisattva

Those born in the Year of the Horse will benefit from worshiping Vajrapani Bodhisattva (Mahasthamaprapta Bodhisattva), which can bring financial stability, peace, and help resolve past karmic obstacles.

For the Year of the Goat and Monkey: Vairocana Buddha

Vairocana Buddha symbolizes light and wisdom, protecting the worshiper and bringing clarity, removing evil spirits, and helping you connect with the spiritual energy of the universe. Vairocana's blessings will bring brightness and happiness, guiding you forward with courage.

For the Year of the Rooster: Acalanatha (Fudo Myoo)

Acalanatha is a guardian who silently protects the devotee, helping them recognize mistakes, seize opportunities, and use their wisdom to navigate challenges. Offering worship to Acalanatha will bring family happiness, good fortune, and career success.

For the Year of the Dog and Pig: Amitabha Buddha

Amitabha Buddha represents immeasurable light and life. Worshiping Amitabha provides silent protection, bestowing boundless wisdom, freeing one from troubles, and guiding you to create a harmonious life with both society and family. Those born in the Year of the Dog and Pig will benefit from his blessing, leading a peaceful and prosperous life.