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Dorje (Vajra, Diamond scepter)
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Related Entries:
Ghanta


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Taoism
Shinto
Sikhhism

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Dorje in Tibetan means 'indestructible.' The Dorje is the Tibetan Buddhist equivalent of the double terminated Hindu ritual tool known as the Vajre, or thunderbolt. It represents masculine force, sudden inspiration, the 'cutting' of ignorance and illusion. In rituals it is always paired with the bell, or Ghanta, its feminine counterpart. The spoked ends represent the closing of the spokes of the wheel of Samsara; the attainment of enlightenment.

A ritual gesture is performed crossing the tools over the chest, representing union of the male and female principals. As ritual tools, they are similar in symbolism to the chalice and dagger used in Wicca and ritual magick.

A "double Dorje" is two dorjes crossed, as pictured above, the emblem of Amoghshiddhi, the fifth Dhyani Buddha.

Pronunciation: Door-jay

Related Symbols:

Ghanta Bell

 

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