In Tibetan Buddhist art and iconography, a noose [Tib. zhags pa] is an attribute. Bodhisattvas such as Vajrapani and Amoghapasa-Lokeshvara carry it to bind and overcome demons and obstacles, symbolising the power, wisdom and compassion needed to overcome negative suffering.
A 'Tibetan noose' is probably a reference to the Amoghapasa noose associated with the bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara [also known as Chenrezig], or to the noose used by the bodhisattva of power, Vajrapani, in his wrathful form, to bind opponents of Buddhism.
It signifies the ability to overcome obstacles and illusions with wisdom and compassion, as practised in Buddhism.
Symbolic meanings:
- A symbol of power and knowledge. The noose is a tool used to capture and restrain enemies of Buddhism.
- The noose is a tool used to capture and restrain enemies of Buddhism.
- The noose symbolises the Bodhisattva's capacity to free beings from the cycle of rebirth.
- A symbol of wisdom: It represents the ability to overcome obstacles and illusions through wisdom and compassion, as practised in Buddhism.