Toh 2200An Explanation of the Noble Tantra “The Blue-Clad Vajrapāṇi”

Explanation of the Scripture "An Explanatory Version of the Noble Bodhisattva Vajrapāṇi Wearing Blue Garments"

Context

This scripture belongs to the Kangyur, the Tantra section, and represents the Vajrayana tradition of tantric Buddhism. Vajrapāṇi, the noble cosmic Vajra Holder, is one of the most important protective bodhisattvas in this tradition, venerated as the symbol of the wisdom-power and active capacity of all Buddhas.

The title "Wearing Blue Garments" (Nīlāmbaradhara) is not an ordinary detail of ornament or clothing, but the chief symbol of this bodhisattva’s nature and infinitely transformative qualities in different realms. In Buddhist esoteric learning, the color blue represents the boundless embrace and penetrating quality of awakened mind, Buddha-mind. This explanatory scripture (ṭīkā) is a detailed exposition of the ritual practice and profound philosophical meaning connected with the form and activity of this bodhisattva.

Main Content

The scripture explaining the form of Vajrapāṇi Wearing Blue Garments emphasizes that every detail in this principal form carries profound symbolic meaning. The vajra that the bodhisattva holds is not a material weapon, but a symbol of the dharmakāya, the absolute essence of Buddha, beyond all distinctions and forms.

The scripture presents the preparatory elements for the practitioner: the initial generation of bodhicitta, the visualization of colors and light gathering from mantra syllables, and the process of inner transformation from an ordinary worldly person into the principal form of Vajrapāṇi. Through entering samādhi in this form, the practitioner receives realization and protection from the Buddha’s dharmakāya, while also activating the power of wisdom-nature within their own mind.

The theoretical sections of the scripture also address the relation between the three bodies of the Buddha (trikāya) and the three principal aspects of the practitioner: body, speech, and mind.