Toh 2925A Sādhana of the Noble Dhāraṇī of Vajravidāraṇā Together With A Brief Ritual

Exposition of the Dharma Method of Vajravidāraṇā

Context

In the Vajrayana tradition, Vajravidāraṇā, the Great Mantra that Shatters Afflictions, is an important Dharma method within the tantric branch of Tibetan Buddhism. This sādhana (practice liturgy) is recorded in the Kangyur, the collection of the authoritative scriptures of Tibet, representing transmission from the Indian Buddhist tradition through holy and noble masters.

Vajravidāraṇā is an advanced dhāraṇī, regarded as the manifestation of wisdom that shatters ignorance: “rdo rje rnam par 'joms pa” in Tibetan, meaning “Vajra that Completely Shatters.” This scripture is not only a collection of sacred syllables, but also a comprehensive guide to how to practice, including both detailed ritual and the method for establishing the mind during practice.

Sādhana, the path of practice, is the core structure of Tantra, distinguishing it from other traditions. Each sādhana is a specific spiritual path, combining visualization, mantra recitation, and the transformation of consciousness from an ordinary state into the state of a Buddha.

Main Content

The Vajravidāraṇā scripture focuses on the shattering power of vajra wisdom. This Dharma method instructs the practitioner in how to activate the power of mind so as to pierce through the encirclement of ignorance and realize Buddha-nature.

The sādhana describes in detail the steps of practice: first, preparing the mind and sacred space through preliminary accomplishments. Second, inviting and visualizing suchness as a sacred deity symbolizing shattering wisdom. Third, performing external acts such as making offerings, confessing and harmonizing faults, and calling upon truthful light. Fourth, reciting the dhāraṇī with a stable mind, each repetition being another sharp edge of wisdom piercing through delusion.