The Vajra or
Dorje or Thunderbolt is the most important ritual
implement and symbol of Vajrayana Buddhism. It is a very
important symbol in Buddhist tantra. Traditionally used
for protecting space and enhancing prayers and wishes
this ancient Tibetan tool is also used for channelling
energy and meditation. The vajra is generally two-sided
but the vishvavajra or the double thunderbolt has four
heads representing the four dhyani Buddhas of the four
directions. The vajra essentially symbolizes the
impenetrable, immovable, immutable, indivisible, and
indestructible state of enlightenment or Buddhahood.
Phurba (Tib.) or ritual dagger is used to subdue
and subsequently enlist the negative and the
uncontrolled in a wrathful manner. Phurbas refer to the
Buddhist theme of self-control, and to the tantric
transformation of negative powers on the path to
enlightenment
