The Symbolism Behind Nagasena’s Khakkara and Vase

Arhat Nagasena is venerated for his two important attributes: a monk's staff and a vase. The staff, known as khakkhara, represents his identity as a wandering ascetic, embodying discipline, guidance, and the support he provides to others on their journey to enlightenment. It also highlights his dedication to monastic life and his willingness to face challenges. The vase symbolizes wisdom, purity, and the nourishment of spiritual practice that eradicates financial struggles and moral imperfections. Meanwhile, both symbols illustrate the Arhat's commitment to his role in upholding and sharing the teachings of the Buddha. Together, these attributes reflect the Arhat's emphasis on practical wisdom and compassionate guidance, vital qualities for a life devoted to the Dharma.

Devotees believe that whoever sees, touches, or mediates upon Nagasena's vase will gain one such virtue that will wipe out both spiritual and material deficiencies. It is said that the Arhat had gone to the land of the Four Great Kings (Gyal-chen ris-bzi); where he preached Dharma to all the divine beings present, including the devas and nagas. All those divine beings were filled with faith and made extensive offerings to him. They also offered him precious gifts of many vases, which were treasured for their immense power to grant all their owner's wishes. Nagasena accepted those vases, blessed them, and transformed them into one which he took as his attribute.

Who Are the Arhats in Vajrayana Buddhism?

Arhats (Sanskrit: अरिहत्, Arahant; Tibetan: Drakpo) are honored as enlightened beings who have attained liberation from samsara by overcoming their defilements and delusions. Within Vajrayana, Drakpos are revered in practice as protectors of the Dharma and direct disciples of the Buddha who safeguard his teachings until the arrival of the future Buddha, Maitreya. The sixteen Arhats represent discipline, wisdom, and renunciation, serving as an inspiration for practitioners on their journey to spiritual awakening.

The Royal Origin of Arhat Nagasena

The great Arhat Nagasena (Tibetan: Klu'i-sde) was born into a royal family in Sankissa (gSeg-ma), an ancient city in northern India. As a prince, he grew up in luxury with an attentive upbringing and education, unlike other children. Hence, he was appointed to succeed the royal throne when he was growing up. But the young prince saw that his role as a king would force him to wage war, tax his subjects, and pass laws and judgments on them. So he gave up his inheritance and went before the Shakyamuni Buddha. The crowned prince made atonement for his past wrong-doings and asked the Bhagavan to initiate him. The Buddha gladly agreed and ordained him as a monk. 

After the ordination, the former prince made a deep and thorough study of the Three Pitakas and, in time, rose through the ranks in the Buddha sangha. Sakyamuni also praisingly referred to him as "the best of the disciples detached from the material world." In gratitude to the Tathagata, Nagasena wished to spread the former's teachings and help others attain liberation. In order to do this, he went to Gyal-chen ris-bzi, the lowest heaven of the Gods of Desire. It was where he received the wish-fulfilling vase from the divine being who took refuge in the Three Jewels. 

Nagasena's life and deeds set an example that the wealth, splendor, temporal power, and glory of a royal lineage are of slight advantage, but, on the contrary, it is a cause of danger. The Arahant admonishes that anyone, no matter how sinful one has been in the past, can be purified by seeking refuge in the Three Jewels.

Iconography of Arhat Nagasena in Buddhist Art

Arhat Nagasena is a highly respected figure in the Buddhist tradition, often portrayed in various artistic forms that represent his profound wisdom, enlightenment, and role as a spiritual mentor. His iconography is filled with significance, with each element highlighting key aspects of his enlightened character. Here are the notable features typically found in his representations:

1. Seated Posture: Arhat Nagasena is frequently depicted sitting in a serene, meditative position. This composed stance signifies his enlightened state, symbolizing inner tranquility, deep mindfulness, and mastery over worldly distractions.
2. Monastic Robes (Tricivara): Nagasena is shown wearing traditional monastic robes, often featuring simple designs. These garments represent his renunciation of worldly attachments and his dedication to a monastic life devoted to the Dharma, embodying discipline and commitment.
3. Monk’s Staff in Right Hand: In his right hand, Nagasena carries a monk’s staff (Khakkara), a strong symbol of his authority and spiritual discipline. The staff signifies his role in guiding others on the path to enlightenment and his position as a teacher of the Dharma.
4. Vase in Left Hand: In his left hand, Nagasena holds a vase, which symbolizes the Dharma's ability to eliminate spiritual deficiencies and poverty. The vase serves as a vessel of wisdom and teachings, reflecting his mission to dispel ignorance and offer spiritual abundance to all beings.
5. Serene Expression: His facial expression is calm, peaceful, and compassionate, showcasing the deep inner peace he has achieved. This tranquil demeanor embodies his profound wisdom and the enlightenment he has realized through understanding the true nature of existence.
6. Presence of Natural Elements: He is frequently depicted amidst natural elements like trees, mountains, or rivers. These surroundings highlight his connection to nature and the serene environment of his dwelling place, Mount Vipulaparshva, where he engages in meditation.
7. Aura of Enlightenment: An aura of enlightenment often envelops Nagasena, representing his state of enlightenment. This glowing light symbolizes his spiritual purity and the wisdom he possesses, emphasizing his esteemed position as an Arhat/Sthavira.
8. Accompanied by Retinue: Nagasena is accompanied by 1,200 other Arhats, whom he leads on the path to enlightenment.
9. Symbolic Coloration: He is typically illustrated in golden or radiant hues, which signify his spiritual purity and profound wisdom. These colors enhance his divine essence and visually express his deep connection to the teachings of the Buddha.

The iconography of Arhat Nagasena in Buddhist art captures his essence as an enlightened teacher, representing both wisdom and discipline. Symbols such as the monk's staff and vase illustrate his deep understanding of the Dharma, his capacity to guide others, and his mission to alleviate both material and spiritual poverty. His calm expression, balanced surroundings, and glowing aura further signify his enlightened state, establishing him as a paragon of spiritual awakening and wisdom.

Emphasis on Arhat Nagasena's Monk's Staff

The monk's staff, also known as Khakkara (Tibetan: Khar-gsil), is an article of equipment for those who follow the pure practices of Vinaya. The monastic staff is topped with jingling rings, which produce sound. It is said that the jingling sound awakens one from the sleep of ignorance. Whoever hears the sound of the staff will be cured of mental defilements and relieved of all kinds of mental suffering and miseries of ignorance. They will also acquire an unwavering faith in the Three Jewels.

One legend suggests that it was the Shakyamuni Buddha who instructed all of his disciples to carry the Khargsil and strictly maintain its conduct, a venerated tradition that Sthavira Nagasena continued. Khakkhara is also carried by the eight Arhats on the Lotus on Padmasambhava's left side in the Nyingma Refuge Tree- Longchen Nyingtik Lineage.

The Story of Arhat Nagasena and His Dialogue with King Milinda

One of the most renowned episodes in the life of Arhat Nāgasena is his insightful dialogue with King Menander I, often referred to as Milinda in Buddhist literature. King Milinda was a Greco-Bactrian royal who ruled in the 2nd century BCE. He was known for his keen intellect and philosophical questions. He approached the Arahant to address his uncertainties regarding Buddhist teachings. Their encounter is regarded as a significant moment in Buddhist history, highlighting Nāgasena’s profound wisdom and his skill in elucidating intricate spiritual ideas.

The tale of Arhat Nagasena and his renowned conversation with King Milinda is documented in the Milinda Panha (The Questions of King Milinda), an important text within the Theravada Buddhist tradition. This text comprises a series of questions and answers exchanged between King Milinda (Menander I) and the enlightened monk Nagasena, providing profound insights into Buddhist philosophy and teachings.

The Dialogue:

The dialogue between King Milinda and Nagasena is rich and thought-provoking, delving into several core concepts of Buddhism. Here are some of the key moments:

1. The Question of Identity:
   The king begins by questioning the nature of the self. He asks Nagasena, "Who are you?"
   Nagasena replies, "I am Nagasena, the Arhat."
   The king, puzzled, asks, "But who is Nagasena?"
   Nagasena then uses the analogy of a chariot to explain the concept of non-self. He says:
   "Just as the chariot is made up of various parts—wheels, axles, and so on—yet we do not say that the chariot is one single part, so too, the person is made up of the five aggregates (form, feeling, perception, mental formations, and consciousness), and there is no permanent self beyond these."
   This analogy helps Milinda understand that the "self" is not a fixed entity, but a collection of ever-changing processes.
2. The Question of Rebirth:
   King Milinda is also curious about the concept of rebirth. He asks, "If a person is reborn, who is it that is reborn?"
   Nagasena answers with the analogy of a flame. He explains:
   "Just as when one candle is used to light another, the flame is not the same but is considered the same due to the continuity of fire. Similarly, a person is reborn, but the 'self' is not the same; it is a continuity of consciousness that carries the karmic results of the previous life."
   Through this analogy, Milinda begins to grasp the idea of rebirth as a process of continuity rather than the transmigration of a permanent self.
3. The Nature of Wisdom:
   Another key part of the conversation involves the nature of wisdom and enlightenment. Milinda asks, "What is the nature of the wise person?"
   Nagasena explains that a wise person is one who has removed ignorance and delusions, much like a person who has removed a heavy burden from their back. Wisdom is the understanding of impermanence, suffering, and non-self.
4. The Question of the Arhat:
   Milinda is also curious about the Arhat's state of enlightenment. He asks, "What happens to an Arhat after death?"
   Nagasena explains that the Arhat has attained liberation and will not be reborn. He compares the death of an Arhat to the extinction of a flame. Once the flame is extinguished, it no longer exists in any form. Similarly, the Arhat, free from attachments and ignorance, has transcended the cycle of birth and death (samsara).
5. The Simile of the Tortoise:
   One of the most famous analogies in the Milindapanha involves the tortoise. Nagasena explains the nature of attachment using the image of a tortoise pulling in its limbs:
   "Just as a tortoise withdraws its limbs into its shell, a wise person withdraws from attachments, desires, and distractions. This is how one achieves peace and detachment."
   This metaphor highlights the Buddhist practice of non-attachment and the importance of inner peace.

Throughout their conversation, King Milinda's uncertainties are gradually addressed, and he finds himself captivated by the Arhat's wisdom and clarity. Milinda recognizes the deep insights within the teachings and ultimately becomes a dedicated follower of the Buddha’s Dharma. The dialogue between Nagasena and Milinda stands out as one of the most renowned philosophical discussions in Buddhist literature, showcasing the richness of Buddhist teachings regarding reality, the self, and the path to liberation.

Conclusion: The Legacy of Arhat Nagasena

Arhat Nagasena’s journey from being a former prince to becoming an enlightened Arhat illustrates the remarkable potential of spiritual renunciation. His monk’s staff signifies his authority and his role as a guide on the path to wisdom, while the vase he carries symbolizes his ability to purify spiritual shortcomings. In his renowned dialogue with King Milinda, Nagasena provides profound insights into Buddhist teachings, elucidating complex concepts with clarity and precision. These elements — his staff, vase, and dialogue — are crucial in demonstrating his wisdom, compassion, and spiritual guidance. Through his example, Nagasena’s legacy continues to motivate those seeking enlightenment.

Nagasena’s teachings not only illuminate the concepts of self and rebirth but also prompt us to contemplate the deeper dimensions of existence. His transition from a life of royalty to one of renunciation highlights the transformative impact of letting go of worldly attachments in the quest for spiritual truth. The monk’s staff and vase stand as enduring symbols of his dedication to the Dharma, reminding us of the significance of discipline, wisdom, and the pursuit of spiritual clarity. Through his deep insights and the humble yet powerful symbols he embodies, Sthavira Nagasena continues to inspire those on the path to liberation.