Vajra and Esoteric Ritual Implements

The vajra, kongōsho (金剛杵), thunderbolt and diamond at once, is the central implement of esoteric Buddhism: indestructible wisdom that shatters ignorance. With the vajra bell and other tools of gilt bronze, it is laid out on the altar of every esoteric rite, and these implements are among the most beautiful metalwork in Japanese art.

The vajra

Form Japanese Description
Single-pronged Dokkosho A straight point at each end
Three-pronged Sankosho A central prong with two curving prongs at each end
Five-pronged Gokosho A central prong with four curving prongs, the most important
Jewel and stupa ends Hōjusho, tōsho A jewel or a small stupa in place of the prongs

Kūkai is shown holding a five-pronged vajra, and many wisdom kings and guardians carry vajra as weapons.

The vajra bell

A bell, kongōrei, whose handle is half a vajra, rung to awaken and delight the deities. Bells are named for their handles: single, three or five-pronged, jewel or stupa. Their bodies are often finely cast with bands of vajra and lotus, and some bear images of the Four Heavenly Kings.

The altar set

On a Shingon altar, five bells and five vajra are arranged in a set around a central stupa or jewel. A crossed double vajra, katsuma, may sit at the corners. With them stand offering bowls, lamps, a censer and flower vases. The implements that Kūkai brought from Tang China are preserved at Tōji in Kyoto and remain the model for all later sets.

Collecting notes

  • Gilt bronze wears on high points from handling, revealing the bronze beneath. Honest wear is desirable; regilding is not.
  • Check prongs for bends and old repairs, and bells for cracks, which spoil the tone.
  • Tibetan vajra and bells, dorje and drilbu, are related but distinct. See Tibetan and Himalayan Buddhist Art.

In the collection

Search the collection for vajra and browse esoteric Buddhist art. Our collector concierge can search Japan for ritual implements.

See also

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