Front: Amitabha [The Buddha of Infinite Light]
Amitabha is one of the five Dhyani Buddhas and the ruler of the Western Pure Land, Sukhavati.
Symbolism: He represents the overcoming of passions and the transformation of greed into discriminating wisdom.
Depiction: Meditation gesture [Dhyana Mudra] – both hands rest relaxed in the lap, one on top of the other, palms facing upward.
Significance in the set: He forms the peaceful center. The Bodhi leaf here underscores the moment of enlightenment and the promise of rebirth in his Pure Land.
The reverse side: The six-armed Mahakala [Shadbhuja Mahakala]
Mahakala is a wrathful protective deity [Dharmapala] and is considered the powerful manifestation of Avalokiteshvara.
Symbolism: He protects the teachings and the practitioner from internal and external obstacles. His wrathful appearance serves to »shatter« the ego and negative energies.
Depiction: Despite the relief’s small size, the six arms are distinctive. He usually stands on a lotus base, wears a crown of five skulls, and holds attributes such as a cleaver [Kartika] and a skull cup [Kapala].
Significance in the set: His placement on the back is no coincidence. He acts as a guardian and protector for the peaceful meditation depicted on the front.
The interplay in the Bodhi Leaf: The object unites two poles:
1. Goal: Peaceful enlightenment [Amitabha].
2. Protection: The energetic warding off of disturbances [Mahakala].
The fact that the set is additionally painted with the dorje [scepter/diamond] and the swastika [symbol of good fortune and stability] makes it a powerful ritual tool. It could radiate the energy of the deities in all directions of the room.
| B a c k |