Dezhung Rinpoche Codified the Sakya Refuge Tree with Vajradhara in 1956
The Vajradhara Lineage Tree is a profound map of spiritual wisdom passed down through generations of Tibetan Buddhist masters. Often depicted as a vibrant thangka, this detailed artwork captures the very essence of Vajrayana Buddhism, illustrating the sacred flow of teachings from Vajradhara, the primordial Buddha, all the way to the modern masters of the Sakya tradition. When practitioners look at the thangka, they’re encouraged to connect with the rich history of these teachings and receive blessings that will support their meditative journey toward enlightenment.
In this comprehensive read, we’ll take a deep dive into the Vajradhara Lineage Tree to explore the symbolism behind the figures, their role in the lineage, and how they act as sacred havens for those on the path to spiritual awakening.
What is the Vajradhara Lineage Tree?
The Vajradhara Lineage Tree is a visual and symbolic representation of the transmission of Buddhist teachings within the Sakya school of Tibetan Buddhism. This refuge tree traces an unbroken spiritual lineage that starts with Vajradhara, the primordial Buddha who embodies the ultimate wisdom of Vajrayana Buddhism, and continues through generations of enlightened masters from India and Tibet. At the heart of this tree is Vajradhara, the source of the highest tantric teachings.
From him, the lineage branches out through a series of Indian Mahasiddhas and great tantric masters, eventually reaching the founders and spiritual leaders of the Sakya tradition in Tibet. This lineage includes key figures and the five Sakya patriarchs, among others. Each figure represented in the tree is a realized master; a teacher who has truly lived the path of practice and insight, safeguarded the teachings, and shared them with clarity and blessings. This lineage is a historical account that serves as a meditative focus and a wellspring of inspiration. By visualizing and reflecting on the Vajradhara Lineage Tree, practitioners can connect directly to the blessings, wisdom, and spiritual power of these enlightened beings.
In the Sakya tradition, contemplating the lineage tree helps cultivate faith, devotion, and a sense of spiritual continuity, strengthening the connection between practitioners and the enlightened masters who came before them.
A Deeper Look Into the Vajradhara Lineage Tree
Refuge tree thangkas, such as the Vajradhara Lineage Tree, are rich with symbolic meaning. Their structure is intricately tied to Buddhist cosmology, philosophy, and practice. To truly grasp the significance of the tree, it’s important to delve into how the figures are arranged and how each one plays a role in conveying the broader spiritual message.
The painting focuses on key Buddhist symbols such as the Three Jewels and the Three Roots, which are represented by various figures. These symbols are significant in Tantric Buddhist iconography.
Three Jewels:
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Buddha: Represented by the circle of Buddhas on the left side below Vajradhara. Here, Shakyamuni is surrounded by Dipamkara, Metteya (Maitreya), Amitabha, Akshobhya, Ratnasambhava, and Vairocana Buddhas.
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Dharma: Represented by physical books, stacked in a chequered pattern behind the peak of the tree.
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Sangha: Represented by the circle of Bodhisattvas on the right side of the tree. Manjushri appears in the center surrounded by other Bodhisattvas, together known as the Eight Great Bodhisattvas. Below them are Ananda, Shariputra and Maudgalyayana, the principal students of Shakyamuni Buddha.
Three Roots:
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Guru: Represented by Vajradhara at the center, surrounded by teachers of the Margapala (Lamdre) lineage.
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Ishtadevata (Meditational Deity): Primarily represented by Hevajra and the Eight Goddesses, placed just below Vajradhara.
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Dharmapala (Protectors of the Dharma): Represented by Panjarnata Mahakala, grouped with the Ishtadevatas. Below these main figures are various worldly and beyond-worldly protector deities.
1. Vajradhara at the Center: The Primordial Buddha
The central figure here is Vajradhara, who represents the primordial Buddha and the ultimate source of all tantric teachings. Typically, he's shown in a meditative pose, holding a vajra, which stands for indestructible wisdom, and a bell that represents the feminine aspect of wisdom. He is the embodiment of the non-dual nature of reality, going beyond the usual distinctions we make between self and other, or wisdom and ignorance. This state reflects ultimate enlightenment, where wisdom and compassion come together as one.
His position at the center of the lineage tree highlights that all teachings and practices stem from this core essence. As the foundation of all Vajrayana practices, Vajradhara’s teachings are seen as direct pathways to enlightenment, unencumbered by dualistic concepts.
2. Mahasiddhas (Uppermost Tier Above Vajradhara)
- Virupa
- Tilopa
- Naropa
- Kanha
- Avadhutipa
- Shavaripa
- Lokeśvara
The Mahasiddhas hold a special place above Vajradhara because they embody the foundational sources of Tantric wisdom that Vajradhara shares through the lineage. They are deeply respected for their intense practices, spiritual strength, and the passing down of Tantric teachings.
3. Hevajra and Accompanying Goddesses (Central Meditational Deities)
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Hevajra (Central of the Meditational Circle)
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Eight Goddesses Surrounding Hevajra:
- Vajrayogini on the right of Hevajra
In the heart of the meditational circle, Hevajra represents the dynamic force of wisdom and transformation, encircled by the Eight Goddesses, each embodying unique facets of wisdom, protection, and energy. Among them, Vajrayogini shines as the embodiment of feminine wisdom and passion. Together, they lead practitioners on a journey to overcome challenges and reach enlightenment along the Tantric path.
4. Below Hevajra Representing Hevajra Cycle of Tantra
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Bhutadamara Vajrapani
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Panjarnata Mahakala
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Vajrabhairava
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Vajrakila
The figures located beneath Hevajra in the Sakya Refuge Tree, which represent the Hevajra Cycle of Tantra, play a crucial role as protectors and deities. They embody the transformative and protective aspects of the Tantric journey. These figures are a powerful symbol of the active energy, fierce wisdom, and safeguarding needed to navigate the challenges on the road to enlightenment.
5. Base Figures Circling the Tree:
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Maharakta Ganapati
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Takkiraja
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Kala Rakshasa
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Kala Rakshasi
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Shri Shmashana Adhipati
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Shri Devi Magzor Gyalmo
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Brahmanarupa Mahakala
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Putra
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Batra
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Singmo
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Ekajati
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Shri Devi Dudsolma
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'Outer' Yama Dharmaraja
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Gauri
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Marajit
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Vaishravana Riding a Lion
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Red Jambhala (of the Gayadhara and Traba Ngonshe tradition)
These figures form the base of the tree, illustrated as encircling it, and are supported by lush green and blue clouds that billow around. These clouds symbolize various protector deities and guardians within the Sakya Refuge Tree.
The Vajradhara Lineage Tree as a Sacred Refuge
The Vajradhara Lineage Tree is an incredibly valuable resource for those on their meditation journey. It serves as both a visual and spiritual sanctuary, helping practitioners maintain a connection to the rich lineage of teachings. Here’s why this tree is such an essential part of a practitioner's path:
1. Connecting with the Blessings of the Masters
Every master in this lineage is a living testament to wisdom. By meditating on their images, practitioners can tap into the blessings and empowerment necessary to move forward on their spiritual journey. Since these masters embodied the wisdom of Vajradhara, practitioners have the opportunity to connect with their energy and insights.
2. Enhancing Meditation Practice
Taking time to meditate on the Vajradhara Lineage Tree really enhances one's grasp of the journey toward enlightenment. When you visualize the lineage and connect with the wisdom of each teacher, you can tap into the blessings of the masters. This connection serves as a powerful ally in your spiritual growth.
3. Cultivating Wisdom and Compassion
In this lineage, practitioners discover how to embody both wisdom (prajna) and compassion (karuna). With Vajradhara at the heart of the lineage, the practitioner's meditation serves as a direct connection to these deep qualities, equipping them with the mental and emotional tools necessary for achieving liberation.
Explore More About other Refuge Tree Thangkas such as Machig Labdrön Lineage Tree Thangka here.
The Sacred Path of Transformation: Guidance from the Vajradhara Lineage
The Vajradhara Lineage Tree is so much more than just a symbolic diagram—it's a vibrant, living representation of the spiritual journey we all embark on. Grounded in the teachings of the revered Tibetan Buddhist masters, it acts as a bridge connecting wisdom, compassion, and enlightenment, guiding practitioners through the various stages of awakening. When you meditate on the tree and visualize the wisdom of Vajradhara and his lineage, you're not merely linking to a lineage; you're weaving these deep teachings into the fabric of your being, empowering you to navigate the path of transformation with clarity and purpose.
For those who follow the Sakya tradition, as well as practitioners from any of the Vajrayana schools, the Vajradhara Lineage Tree serves as a compass, directing us toward the ultimate goal of Buddhahood. It reminds us of the limitless potential for spiritual awakening and the vast wisdom that can be tapped into through meditation, devotion, and a clear understanding.
As we reflect on this sacred lineage, we’re encouraged to recognize our own ability for profound transformation, realizing that the journey to enlightenment is not just a dream, but a tangible reality within our grasp. The teachings of the masters flow through the ages, providing us with an everlasting guide to the ultimate truth; discovering our true nature and awakening to the essence of all beings. In this light, the Refuge Tree Thangkas stands as a mirror of the teachings but also as a living guide on our quest for the complete liberation of both mind and heart.