Arhat Kanakavatsa: The Ascetic with the Jewel Lasso

Kanakavatsa's Jewel Lasso Was An Offering By The Nagas

Arhat Kanakavatsa is venerated for his ascetic renunciation and symbolic jewel lasso in his hands. The legend of his precious lasso- his attribute is said to have been offered by the klu (naga) when the ascetic visited their land. During his time there, he taught the Dharma and converted many nagas as the latter decided to attain Buddhahood for the sake of all sentient beings. Hence, the klu happily offered Kanakavatsa a necklace of precious stones, which had the power to grant all wishes. The Arhat accepted the lasso and kept it as his attribute.

It is said that those who touch or see the precious lasso attribute will have an opportunity to hear and understand all the religious instructions given by the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas. Another blessing from Kanakavatsa is that a devotee will be blessed with great memory, self-confidence, and profound wisdom. Furthermore, a devotee will never be separated from their spiritual teacher, and they will receive respect and obedience from the deva, naga, yaksa, and amanushya (non-humans). Those devotees will also gain respect and friendly associations with kings, ministers, queens, princes, monks, Brahmans, and sages.

Thus, Kanakavasta and his jewel lasso occupy a unique space in Vajrayana due to his symbolic association with spiritual wisdom, renunciation, and the blessings of divine beings.

The Sixteen Arhats: Keepers of the Dharma

Stories About The Buddha On a Giclee Print

The Sixteen Arhats, or “Sixteen Elders,” were charged by Buddha Shakyamuni to remain in the world and safeguard the Dharma (teachings of the Buddha) until the arrival of Maitreya, the future Buddha. This responsibility placed them at the heart of Buddhist practices, where their stories are celebrated and their virtues revered.

The Arhats, each associated with specific qualities and iconography, serve as exemplars of the Buddhist path. They are not only historical figures but also powerful symbols of perseverance, detachment, and spiritual liberation. Among them, Kanakavatsa stands out for his narrative, which intertwines worldly detachment with divine blessings.

Discover the identities of the sixteen Arhats and their legendary origins.

The Life of Kanakavatsa With His Golden Elephant Calf

Kanakavatsa’s name means “Golden Calf,” which was derived from the miraculous circumstances surrounding his birth. Born into a wealthy family in the province of Magadha in ancient India, his birth coincided with a remarkable event: one of his family’s prized elephants gave birth to a calf that could produce gold. The elephant calf's urine and feces were of gold. Kanakvatsa's birth was surrounded by virtuous omens, as many have observed. But it was all virtue of the future Arhat's good karma in his past life.

17th century Kanakavasta thangka

A 17th-century thangka of Arhat Kanakavasta. It is one of nine Tibetan ritual paintings of Arhats. (Photo by Brooklyn Museum)

Meanwhile, the boy and the calf both grew up becoming inseparable companions. As a little boy, Kanakavatsa always rode on the back of the elephant calf when he went out to play. Among his playmates was a prince who learned about Kanakavatsa's possession of the gold-producing elephant. The prince desired to take away the calf for himself when he became a king, and soon, the day arrived. The King summoned Kanakavatsa and his father to his palace, where they went riding on the Golden Elephant. The king treated the father with delicious food and drinks and at the end asked for the elephant to be left behind. Not wanting to displease the King, Kanakavasta left behind his childhood companion and left for his home. Suddenly, the elephant appeared in front of the father and son, having sunk into the ground inside the palace. 

Although they returned home with the elephant, Kanakavasta was fearful of the King as he could be punished anytime soon. Thus, he decided to seek solace in Shakyamuni Buddha as he deduced that being ordained by the Tathagata would benefit him and his family. Hence, he received permission from his parents to leave home and make his way towards the Buddha. Sakyamuni decided to take him and the golden elephant and made Kanakavasta his disciple. The elephant, too, did not leave his companion's side and always accompanied him during his lessons. However, sometime later, Buddha and his other disciples felt that the wondrous animal had become the cause of much noise and disturbance.

Realizing the discomfort of his fellow bhikshus, Kanakavasta pleaded to the Buddha that although he wished to give up the elephant, the latter did not intend to. In response, the Buddha replied, "If you repeat three times to the elephant- I am no longer subject to rebirth, I no longer have need of you," the elephant will disappear. Kanakavasta did as he was told, and the golden elephant sank into the earth and disappeared.

The Golden Elephant Was A Result of Kanakavasta's Previous Life

There is a tale behind Kanakavasta's possession of his golden elephant companion. Shakyamuni Buddha told his monks that in his previous birth, Kanakavasta had repaired a broken elephant stupa out of his devotion and reverence. As a simple man in his past life, Kanakavasta had prayed that the merit of his current action would help him live a wealthy life in his future rebirths. Thus, the golden elephant came along his birth in his current life.

The deeds and achievements of Arhat Kanakavasta is an example of pure devotion to the Three Refuges. Those who enter the sacred realm by accumulating merit will gain immeasurable virtue. However, one should not be distracted by materials and wealth instead, one should earnestly seek refuge in the Three Jewels. Hence, Arhat Kanakavasta is an example of renunciation and Buddhahood.

Iconography of Kanakavasta in Vajrayana

kanakavasta chinese thangka
A 19th-century painting of Arhat Kanakavasta house at Tibet House Museum. (Photo by Himalayan Art Resources)

The iconography of Arhat Kanakavatsa in Vajrayana Buddhism is filled with symbolism that highlights his wisdom, enlightenment, and spiritual role as a protector of the Dharma. Kanakavatsa is frequently portrayed as a symbol of detachment, inner peace, and the embodiment of the Buddha's teachings. Here are the key features typically found in his iconography:

1. Simple Yet Noble Attire: Kanakavatsa is often depicted in simple, monastic robes that signify his renunciation of worldly possessions and attachments. Even though the robes are plain, they exude a sense of dignity, emphasizing his status as an enlightened being. This attire represents his complete liberation from material desires and his commitment to spiritual practice. 

2. Serene and Compassionate Expression: His expression is usually serene, conveying a sense of calmness and compassion. This tranquil demeanor illustrates his freedom from mental afflictions and his compassionate nature towards all sentient beings. His face radiates wisdom, showcasing his enlightenment and his capacity to see beyond the illusions of the material world. 

3. Holding the Jewel Lasso (Precious Lasso): A notable aspect of Kanakavatsa’s iconography is his jewel lasso. He is often shown holding this symbolic necklace, which represents his ability to "capture" or "bind" the obstacles of ignorance and attachment, guiding beings toward liberation. The jewel lasso also signifies his wisdom, which can capture and purify defilements, assisting practitioners on their spiritual journey.

4. Surrounded by a Peaceful Aura: In various representations, Kanakavatsa is often illustrated with a luminous aura or halo encircling his head, symbolizing his enlightened state and spiritual purity. This glow reflects his profound connection to the Buddha’s teachings and the unwavering wisdom he has gained through years of dedicated practice and meditation.

5. Presence of Nature: His imagery is occasionally enhanced with natural elements like trees or mountains, representing his deep bond with the natural world and his transcendent wisdom. These natural surroundings also imply that similar to nature, his wisdom is limitless and all-encompassing. 

6. Symbolic Coloration: Kanakavatsa is sometimes portrayed with a golden or radiant glow, indicating his inner purity and the wisdom of the Buddha that he has completely embraced. This coloration emphasizes his enlightenment and mirrors the qualities of the vajra—unbreakable, indestructible, and inherently radiant.

7. Surrounded by his retinue: He is shown surrounded by a retinue of 500 Arhats, reflecting his compassionate role as a spiritual guide and protector of the Dharma. The retinue is believed to be dwelling in Kashmir on the Saffron Hill.

The iconography of Arhat Kanakavatsa, through its symbolic elements, powerfully reminds us of the transformative potential found in wisdom, meditation, and detachment. His portrayal emphasizes not only the personal journey toward enlightenment but also the compassionate role he fulfills in helping others achieve liberation, embodying the path to spiritual awakening within Vajrayana Buddhism.

Conclusion: The Legacy of Kanakavatsa

Arhat Kanakavasta thangka

Kanakavatsa is believed to reside on Saffron Hill in Kashmir, accompanied by 500 other Arhats. This location, rich with great height, represents the ideal environment for meditation and the preservation of the Dharma. His continued presence in the world is a reminder of the Buddha’s promise that the Dharma will endure, supported by enlightened beings like Kanakavatsa and the fifteen other Arhats.

For contemporary practitioners, his story holds timeless relevance. It challenges us to examine our own attachments and consider the spiritual costs of material pursuits. His journey demonstrates that true wealth lies not in external possessions but in the cultivation of inner wisdom and compassion.

Arhat Kanakavatsa remains a figure of profound spiritual significance in Buddhism. His life story, rich with lessons on renunciation and the pursuit of enlightenment, serves as a timeless guide for practitioners. In Vajrayana Buddhism, his role as a source of blessings and wisdom underscores the transformative power of the Dharma.

Through his narrative and symbolism, Kanakavatsa reminds us that the path to liberation lies not in accumulating wealth or status but in cultivating the inner qualities of wisdom, compassion, and detachment. His teachings, preserved through centuries of Buddhist tradition, continue to inspire those who seek the ultimate truth. By venerating him and reflecting on his journey, modern practitioners can find the strength and clarity to navigate the challenges of life and deepen their commitment to the path of awakening.

Explore how the Sixteen Arhats became famous in Tibet.

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