- Origin and Background
- Historical Origin: The Black Jambhala evolved from the Hindu god of wealth Kubera. In Tibetan Buddhism, he is regarded as the manifestation of the Eastern Buddha Akshobhya, who appeared to help sentient beings in the Saha world escape from poverty.
- Legendary Story4: There is a legend that in ancient India, a king was facing financial difficulties and was about to commit suicide by jumping into a river. Then, a six – year – old black boy emerged from the water. After learning about the king’s situation, the boy taught him the method of attaining wealth and instructed the king to practice in a crystal – like meditation room for six months. Later, when the king was disappointed and wanted to give up, the black boy reappeared and encouraged him to continue. Eventually, the king’s house was filled with jewels. This black boy is the Black Jambhala.
- Image and Symbolism
- Appearance4: The Black Jambhala is often depicted as short and stocky, with a large belly, a bare red – haired and black – skinned body, and three wide – open eyes. He wears a crown and is adorned with jewelry and eight dragon kings. He holds a skull – cup full of blood in his right hand and a treasure – vomiting rat in his left hand. His two feet are in a right – bent – left – extended position, stepping on the back of a naked yellow – skinned man, sitting on a lotus throne.
- Symbolic Meanings: The black body color symbolizes the transcendence of all worldly concepts in the ultimate truth, representing the pure and immaculate nature of the mind – vajra. The three eyes symbolize insight, and the flame on the head implies the power of anger3. The snake around his neck represents his control over wealth3. The treasure – vomiting rat in his left hand symbolizes endless wealth, and the skull – cup in his right hand symbolizes the conquest of karmic obstacles and the pursuit of happiness3.
- Religious Functions and Meanings
- Wealth Bestowal: In Tibetan Buddhism, the Black Jambhala is considered to be the most effective among the Five Jambhalas in bestowing wealth, and is even regarded as the king of 财神. He can help believers achieve financial prosperity and meet their material needs.
- Obstacle Removal: The Black Jambhala can remove all kinds of negative influences and obstacles in the lives of believers, such as evil spirits, thieves, and diseases. He blesses believers with peace and stability, enabling them to focus on their careers and lives.
- Merit Increase: Worshiping the Black Jambhala can also increase the merit and virtue of believers. If believers can cultivate the supreme bodhicitta, the blessings they receive will be immeasurable.
When introducing the Black Jambhala, it is important to respect the religious and cultural background of the audience and use a simple and easy – to – understand language to help them better understand this mysterious and unique religious image in Tibetan Buddhism.
