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Arhat Bakula: The Mongoose as His Divine Attribute
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Understanding the Significance of Bakula's Mongoose
Arhat Bakula is eminent for his mongoose in his hands in the pantheon of Buddhist arts. It is believed that a devotee who touches or sees this attribute, the mongoose, will gain the enjoyment of the five senses (Panchakamaguna). In addition to this, that devotee is blessed with speedy attainment of the six transcendental perfections (ṣaṭpāramitā). The ṣaṭpāramitā are Generosity, Discipline, Patience, Diligence, Meditative concentration, and Wisdom. Similarly, the devotee will gain a complete perception of the emptiness (Śūnyatā) and abundant love and compassion for all living beings.
Arhat Bakula’s mongoose represents spiritual prosperity, reminding practitioners that genuine wealth is found in wisdom and virtue, not material possessions. By nurturing the qualities of the five senses and six transcendental perfections, one can achieve a profound understanding of emptiness (Śūnyatā) and develop unconditional compassion for all beings, embodying the essence of the enlightened path.
Who Is an Arhat in Vajrayana Buddhism?
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The term "Arhat" (Sanskrit: अरिहत्, Arahant, Tibetan: Drakpo) designates a person who has reached Nirvana, freeing themselves from the cycle of samsara, which includes birth, death, and rebirth. This title means "worthy one" or "one deserving of respect," emphasizing their attainment of spiritual liberation. Arhats are also referred to as Sthavira, which translates to "Noble Ones" in Sanskrit, recognizing their high standing as enlightened individuals.
The Sthaviras were among the earliest disciples of Shakyamuni Buddha and attained enlightenment through their sheer dedication. Despite their remarkable accomplishment of Nirvana, the sixteen Arhats have chosen to remain in the world until the arrival of the future Buddha, Maitreya. Till then, they protect and preserve the precious teachings of the Buddha, ensuring that the Dharma thrives until Maitreya arrives.
The Life of Arhat Bakula Before His Arhatship
Bakula was born as Gel-Po (Tibetan) in a Brahmin family in the city of Sravasti (mNan-yod) in ancient India. He was born seventy years prior to the birth of Shakyamuni Buddha, previously known as Prince Siddhartha of the Shakya clan before his enlightenment. As a Brahmin, Bakula grew up receiving an education to uphold his Brahmanic tradition. In time, he had become a learned and accomplished scholar. However, after the death of his parents, he became a wanderer. Then, one day, he happened to visit Shurparaka, a land very far away from his homeland. There, he joined a group of hermits practicing asceticism on a hill, and he became one of them.
An 18th-century Tibetan thangka depiction of Arhat Bakula. (Photo by Himalayan Art Resources)
He adapted well to his new home, feeding off the leaves and fruits of the forest and covering his bare body with the barks of trees. Hence, he was named Bakula after the name of a tree. It is said that Bakula dwelled in that forest for one hundred and twenty-five years, spending all those years in meditation. During all those long years, he was never once afflicted by any disease. Then, one day, he and his ascetic brothers decided to build a house of the finest sandalwood to invoke the presence of the Buddha. They also made offerings and burnt incense, which made the Buddha happy. Hence, the Tathagata made his way through the Shurparaka forest by air. Bakula saw the Buddha and his disciples traveling in the sky and was filled with unshakable faith.
At that time, he felt that he would not be able to catch up to the enlightened being if he walked down from the hill. So, he deliberately jumped off the hilltop, hoping to meet the Buddha as soon as possible, without realizing the danger he was in. However, in his quick awareness, the Buddha performed a wondrous deed by rescuing Bakula from any bodily injury. After saving him, Sakyamuni gave him a religious instruction that suited his mental and spiritual level. At that very moment, Bakula attained the fruit of not being subject to returning (anagamiphala), meaning he was no longer subject to rebirth. Bakula asked the Buddha to ordain him and he became a bhikshu from that day on. He subsequently studied and practiced Buddha's teachings and became an Arhat in the upcoming years.
The Buddha referred to him as:
"My dGe-slon (bhikshu) Bakula, the finest of those whose strong faith breaks the cycle of rebirth."
Similarly, in his later years, Bakula recollected memories of all of his previous births and shared them with his fellow monks. In one of his rebirths, he was an incense stick vendor and had offered healing medicines to the disciples of the Vipaśyin Buddha, the first of the seven temporal Buddhas. In his other birth, he once served as a patron to summer monks. And during one of the summers, he had offered some fruits that contained medicinal properties. Hence, all the good merits of his previous births added to his current one which freed him of all physical diseases. The story of his many lives and good deeds showcased that even small acts of goodness could bring great merit.
Iconography of Arhat Bakula in Vajrayana Arts
Arhat Bakula represents spiritual prosperity, wisdom, and abundance. His artistic representations highlight his enlightened nature, deep understanding of the Dharma, and his capacity to grant blessings to practitioners. The components of his iconography are rich in spiritual significance, showcasing his role as a protector of wisdom and a giver of both spiritual and material wealth.
- Seated Posture: He is usually shown in a seated meditative position, symbolizing his profound contemplation and spiritual commitment. His stance embodies the peace and detachment he has achieved through his steadfast devotion to the Dharma.
- Monastic Robes (Tricivara): Like other revered sixteen Arhats, Bakula is adorned in the traditional monastic robes of a Buddhist monk, which symbolize his renunciation of worldly attachments. The folds of his robes are often depicted flowing naturally, illustrating the effortless discipline and spiritual serenity he has cultivated through years of dedicated practice.
- The Mongoose: The mongoose in Bakula’s right hand, his most recognizable attribute, symbolizes his ability to bestow wisdom and blessings upon devotees. It also represents victory over greed and material attachment and the limitless rewards of spiritual practice.
- Serene and Wise Expression: His serene and composed facial expression showcases his control over emotions and a clear, focused mind. His slightly lowered gaze hints at deep wisdom, introspection, and a profound grasp of reality. He radiates an aura of peace and reassurance, inspiring devotees to nurture inner stillness and mindfulness.
- Presence of a Mountain or Natural Setting: He is frequently shown in a mountainous landscape, highlighting his ties to ascetic practices and solitary meditation. This environment is the mountain cave in Uttarakuru, which symbolizes his separation from worldly distractions and his inclination toward a life of contemplation and inner exploration.
- Surrounded by a Retinue: Bakula is shown with other Arhats, symbolizing his role as a teacher and spiritual mentor to the 900 Arhats. His presence among his disciples signifies his responsibility in guiding others on the path to liberation and his enduring influence on Buddhist traditions.
- Aura of Enlightenment: Like other enlightened beings, Bakula is often depicted with a subtle aura or halo of light surrounding his head or entire body. This glow represents his spiritual purity, wisdom, and the enlightenment he has attained through rigorous practice.
- Symbolic Colors and Artistic Representation: Bakula’s iconography often features warm gold and earthy tones, signifying his spiritual refinement, deep connection to the Buddha’s teachings, and enlightened presence. The golden hues highlight his status as a revered Arhat whose wisdom shines forth like a radiant beacon for practitioners.
The symbolic iconography of Arahant Bakula serves as a reminder that genuine wealth is gained through the cultivation of virtues and the understanding of the Dharma. His calm demeanor and thoughtful stance inspire practitioners to foster inner peace and mindfulness. Reflecting on the teachings and symbolism linked to him highlights the endless benefits of selfless virtue, the significance of meditative practice, and the infinite generosity of enlightened beings.
Conclusion: Arhat Bakula Is A Symbol of Wisdom and Generosity
A copper sculpture of Arhat Bakula, crafted in the first half of the 19th century in Central Tibet. (Photo by National Museum of Asian Art)
Arhat Bakula represents wisdom and generosity, two essential qualities on the Buddhist path to enlightenment. His wisdom is evident in his calm demeanor, deep understanding of the Dharma, and profound meditative insight, which symbolize the overcoming of ignorance and the realization of emptiness (Śūnyatā). His enlightenment is not merely theoretical; it is practically demonstrated through his actions and teachings that help others find liberation.
His generosity extends beyond material wealth. While he is often shown with a mongoose that spits out jewels, the deeper meaning lies in his spiritual generosity—the capacity to share wisdom, merit, and Dharma teachings with those who seek them. He embodies the Dāna Pāramitā (Perfection of Giving), not in terms of worldly possessions, but in the invaluable gift of knowledge and liberation. His role in Buddhist tradition serves as a reminder that true wealth is found not in accumulation but in selfless giving and the nurturing of virtue and insight.
Arhat Bakula’s legacy encourages practitioners to develop both wisdom and generosity in their lives, illustrating that enlightenment is attained through meditative insight and acts of compassion. His life demonstrates that genuine spiritual wealth comes from selfless giving, sharing knowledge, and nurturing inner peace. By embodying intellectual insight and compassionate action, he acts as a guiding light for those striving to rise above ignorance and attachment. His life and teachings remind us that wisdom without generosity is lacking and that true enlightenment thrives when knowledge is employed to uplift and free all beings.