Toh 760The Dhāraṇī of Vajralohatuṇḍa

Commentary on the Dhāraṇī of Vajralohatuṇḍa

Context

The Dhāraṇī of Vajralohatuṇḍa (Vajralohatuṇḍadhāraṇī) is one of the important tantric scriptures in the Kangyur, specifically in the Tantra section—the supreme esoteric teachings of Vajrayāna. This is the highest tradition of the Buddha Dharma in Tibet, in which tantra is regarded as the swiftest path to attaining Buddhahood within a single lifetime.

The name “Vajralohatuṇḍa” comprises three elements: Vajra, or “Diamond,” symbolizing the immutable nature of the self-nature of mind; Loha, or “metal,” expressing purity and indestructibility; and Tuṇḍa, “beak” or “point,” indicating a direct penetration to the core of reality. This scripture belongs to the class of dhāraṇī texts—marvelous practices that employ sound, image, and mental recollection to activate transcendent capacities within human beings.

Main Content

The Dhāraṇī of Vajralohatuṇḍa focuses on the practice of reciting secret syllables in order to invoke and unite with the power of Vajralohatuṇḍa—a deity or aspect of Buddhahood whose function is to remove obstacles, sever the conditions of suffering, and protect practitioners.

Dhāraṇīs (陀羅尼) are supremely secret formulas of sound, each syllable containing immeasurably profound meanings. When properly practiced, a dhāraṇī is not merely ordinary language, but the direct expression of the Dharmakāya—the Dharma body of the Buddha, which encompasses the whole of the Buddha Dharma. Those who practice this scripture are taught to:

First, clearly visualize Vajralohatuṇḍa, endowed with transcendent qualities—radiant, powerful, and pure. Second, recite the dhāraṇī with fully concentrated attention, allowing each syllable to penetrate deeply into consciousness. Third, have complete faith that the power of Vajraloha is present within every cell and every thought.