Material: Gold-plated. Charm. Pendant. Turquoise

Size: 4.4 cm wide, . Turquoise (approx. 10 mm)

Narrative:

The Cross Vajra (Sanskrit: Vishva-vajra, Tibetan: rDo-rje-rgya-gram) is an important Tantric ritual implement, symbolizing firm and immovable wisdom and the power to destroy troubles. It consists of two vajra crossed to form a "cross" shape, hence the name. This ritual implement has profound symbolic significance in Tantric practice, and is closely related to the structure of the universe, the layout of the mandala, and the achievement of practice.

**Story and Origin**

The origin of the cross vajra can be traced back to ancient Indian mythology. According to legend, there was an immortal named "Chinlao". After his death, his bones turned into diamond bones, and Indra made them into a vajra as a weapon. Later, Tantric Buddhism absorbed this weapon as a ritual tool and gave it deeper religious meanings.

In Tantric practice, the cross vajra symbolizes the wisdom that destroys afflictions and subdues demonic obstacles. The four heads of the pestle represent the four directions: east (white), south (yellow), west (red), and north (green), corresponding to the five Buddhas and the five elements:

- **White (East)**: Removes disease, suffering and ignorance.

- Yellow (South): Increases longevity, blessings, wealth and wisdom.

- **Red (West)**: Gathering wealth and power between heaven and earth.

- Green (North): Cut off obstacles in practice and achieve liberation.

**SYMBOLS AND APPLICATION**

The cross vajra has many uses in Tantric practice:

- **Mandala Arrangement**: In the base or supporting structure of the Tantric mandala, the cross vajra symbolizes indestructible stability.

- **Practice and blessing**: Practitioners can meditate on the cross vajra under the meditation seat to enhance concentration and wisdom.

- **Dharmakaya symbol**: Many Tantric deities have a cross vajra on their crowns, symbolizing their karma to benefit sentient beings.

This instrument not only represents solid wisdom, but is also closely related to the "Four Karmas" of Tantra (pregnant karma, increasing karma, cessation of karma, and destruction of karma). It can help practitioners eliminate obstacles and increase blessings during the practice.