About Chakras

Tibetan chakras are traditional protective talismans/amulets that contain miniature mandalas and circular mantras of a specific Buddhist deity. Called sungkhor in Tibetan, which literally means “protection wheel”, each mandala is folded in a prescribed manner, accompanied by recitations of prayers and mantras. It is then wrapped with colourful strings to create a unique handwoven design.

Finally, the completed chakra is consecrated by lamas and monks to invoke the deity’s energy and blessings. As a result, chakras of different deities have specific benefits based on the enlightened quality that is typically associated with that particular Buddha-deity.

About Vajrapani

An emanation of Buddha Akshobhya, Vajrapani represents the spiritual power and skilful means of all the Buddhas. He is part of the enlightened trinity known as Rigsum Gonpo or the "Lords of the Three Families” which comprises Avalokiteshvara, Manjushri and Vajrapani. He is also the central figure of the combined triple deity practice known as Trakpo Sumtril, which includes Hayagriva and King Garuda.

For practitioners, his path of practice is a means of accomplishing fierce determination and symbolises unrelenting effectiveness in the conquest of negativity. It was Vajrapani who requested Buddha Shakyamuni to teach many of the Tantras that are practised today. He will be the last of the Buddhas to appear in this fortunate aeon, therefore making a connection to him and keeping him close will be of great benefit to us.

Watch Video

• Tsem Rinpoche on Chakras