In his 16-armed form, the tantric deity Hevajra holds a skull cup [»Kapala«] in each hand, each containing a specific symbolic being or deity. These attributes represent overcoming obstacles and transforming worldly aspects into enlightened qualities.
Each bowl symbolises one of the negative passions or states that Hevajra overcomes.
The distribution of the contents usually follows this pattern:
Right Hands
The eight skull bowls on the right side contain various mammals, which are often interpreted as symbols of diseases or worldly afflictions that Hevajra can destroy:
1. Elephant [white]2. Horse [blue]
3. Donkey [with white spot]
4. Ox/bull [yellow/red]
5. Camel
6. Human
7. Lion or mythical creature [Sharabha]
8. Cat or owl
Left Hands
The eight skull bowls on the left side contain personified forces of nature or gods who represent the mastery of the universe and spiritual powers:
1. Earth [earth goddess Prithvi]
2. Water [water god Varuna]
3. Air/wind [wind god Vayu]
4. Fire [fire god Agni]
5. Moon [Chandra]
6. Sun [Surya]
7. Yama [god of death]
8. Vaisravana/Kubera [God of Wealth]
Front pair of hands
The front pair of his hands often embrace his consort Nairatmya. The skull cups in this first pair typically contain the elephant [right] and the earth goddess [left].
Note: The exact attribution of specific emotions / character traits to individual animals may vary slightly in different traditions. However, the core message remains that Hevajra, with his attributes, symbolizes the transformation of worldly passions into wisdom.
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