Vidyadhara (Buddhism)
Vidyadhara (Sanskrit: Vidyadhara; meaning 'Knowledge-holder','Awareness-Holder') is the word in Buddhist literature for a person having the great knowledge (vidya) of mantras and other esoteric knowledge of occult practices such as recitation of spells,[1] samatha, and alchemy. A realized master on one of the four stages on the tantric path of Mahayoga. Another Buddhist definition is: Bearer of the profound method, the knowledge which is the wisdom of deity, mantra and great bliss.
| Vidyadhara | |
|---|---|
 Notable Burmese Vidyadharas | |
| Sanskrit | Vidyadhara |
| Pāli | Vijjadhara |
| Burmese | Weizza |
| Chinese | Xian |
| Japanese | Sennin |
| Tibetan | Rigdzin |
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The Rigdzin Dupa, Vidyadharas Gathering, enshrines sacred treaties, revealing the profound views, powerful meditations, sacred conduct and ultimate Vajrayana teachings in Tibetan Buddhism.[2] It is the inner Guru Rinpoche practice from the Longchen Nyingtik, the terma revelation of Jigme Lingpa.
Four levels of a vidyadhara which are specific to the Dzogchen or Nyingma tradition.
- matured vidyadhara
- vidyadhara with power over life
- mahamudra vidyadhara
- spontaneously accomplished vidyadhara
References
- Hirsch, Julia (November 24, 2020). "A Buddhist Book of Spells: Interview with Sam van Schaik". Tricycle. Retrieved 9 May 2023.
- Lingpa, Jigme (September 26, 2017). The Gathering of Vidyadharas: Text and Commentaries on the Rigdzin Düpa (Translation ed.). Snow Lion. pp. VII. ISBN 1611803616.