Bronze Diamond Sceptre (Vajra)

Bronze Diamond Sceptre (Vajra)

Meditation

A Vajra meaning "thunderbolt" or "diamond" in Sanskrit is a ritual object symbolically used by dharma traditions such as Buddhism, Jainism, and Hinduism. The Vajra symbolizes properties of a diamond (indestructibility) and of a thunderbolt (irresistible force). In Vajrayana Buddhism, the Vajra additionally symbolizes the nature of reality or "sunyata" which indicates the endless creativity and potency of activity. Vajrayana Buddhist used the Vajra in rituals of tantra and many other rites. 

Check out the High Library for more information. 

Check out the sacred text that relates to the artifact. 

Sources: 
Robert Beer, The Handbook of Tibetan Buddhist Symbols (Boston: Shambhala, 2003).

Elizabethtown College (Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania, USA)

Dr. William V. Puffenberger

Elizabethtown College retains all intellectual property rights to this image including, but not limited to, digital rights and any derivative works. For permission for reproduction, please contact the College’s Administrative Assistant for Humanities.

A bronze sceptre with decorative engravings and points at the top of each sphere on both sides.

5.25 in X 1.25 in (13.3 cm X 3.2 cm)

Physical Object

Puffenberger #78

Nepal