Dhṛtarāṣṭra
Guardian of the East
Deva
Place of Origin: India
Origin Date: Ancient times
Domain: Protection, music, harmony
Symbols: Lute
Attributes: Protector of the East, guardian of music and harmony
Epithets: None
Equivalents: None
Religion: Buddhism
Sacred Texts: Mentioned in various Buddhist scriptures
Iconography: Depicted holding a lute, often in a protective stance
Relations: Other Heavenly Kings
Description
Dhṛtarāṣṭra is one of the Four Heavenly Kings in Buddhist cosmology. He is the guardian of the East and the leader of the gandharvas and piśācas. He is often depicted holding a lute, symbolizing his role as a protector of music and harmony.
Narratives:
Dhṛtarāṣṭra is known for his role in protecting the eastern direction and maintaining harmony among the celestial beings.
Dhṛtarāṣṭra and the Four Heavenly Kings
Dhṛtarāṣṭra, also known as the Guardian of the East, is one of the Four Heavenly Kings (Lokapālas) who protect the world. He resides on the eastern part of Mount Sumeru and rules over the gandharvas and piśācas. Dhṛtarāṣṭra swore an oath of protection before the Buddha Shakyamuni, symbolizing his role as a protector and benefactor.
Dhṛtarāṣṭra and the Gandharvas
Dhṛtarāṣṭra is the leader of the gandharvas, celestial musicians who play music to convert sentient beings to Buddhism. In Chinese Buddhist iconography, he is often depicted holding a pipa (a stringed instrument), indicating his desire to use music for spiritual purposes.
Dhṛtarāṣṭra and the Nāga King
In Buddhist literature, there is a story of a Nāga King also named Dhṛtarāṣṭra. He was the father of Gautama Buddha in a past life when the latter was a bodhisattva named Bhūridatta. This story highlights Dhṛtarāṣṭra's connection to the Buddha and his role in the spiritual realm.
Dhṛtarāṣṭra and the Protection of the Dharma
Dhṛtarāṣṭra is considered one of the Twenty Devas or the Twenty-Four Devas, a group of Buddhist dharmapalas who manifest to protect the Dharma. His role as a protector is emphasized in various Buddhist scriptures, where he is depicted with a fierce expression, clad in armor, and often brandishing a sword or trident spear.
Worship Beliefs and Practices of Dhṛtarāṣṭra
Dhṛtarāṣṭra, also known as Dhataraṭṭha in Pali and Jikokuten in Japanese, is a significant figure in Buddhism. He is one of the Four Heavenly Kings and is considered the guardian of the eastern direction. Dhṛtarāṣṭra is revered as a protector and a divine being with the ability to uphold and defend the realm.
Core Beliefs
Guardian King: Dhṛtarāṣṭra is one of the Four Heavenly Kings, specifically the guardian of the eastern direction. He is believed to protect the world from evil and ensure the prosperity and well-being of all beings.
Protector of the Nation: His name means "Upholder of the Nation," reflecting his role in safeguarding the realm and maintaining stability.
Leader of the Gandharvas: Dhṛtarāṣṭra is the leader of the gandharvas, celestial musicians who are known for their musical abilities. He is also associated with the piśācas, spirits that he controls.
Attributes and Significance
Depictions: Dhṛtarāṣṭra is often depicted holding a lute or pipa, symbolizing his connection to music and his role in converting sentient beings to Buddhism through the power of music. In Japanese iconography, he is shown with a fierce expression, clad in armor, and often brandishing a sword or trident.
Cultural Influence: Dhṛtarāṣṭra's influence extends across various Buddhist cultures, including Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Tibetan traditions. He is revered as a powerful guardian and protector of the Dharma.
Protector of the Dharma: Dhṛtarāṣṭra is seen as a protector of the Buddha's teachings (Dharma). He is believed to safeguard practitioners and ensure the preservation and propagation of the Dharma.
Practices of Worship
Rituals and Ceremonies: Devotees perform various rituals and ceremonies to honor Dhṛtarāṣṭra. These include offerings of food, incense, and other goods to seek his favor and protection.
Sacred Sites: Temples and shrines dedicated to Dhṛtarāṣṭra can be found throughout Buddhist regions. These sites are often adorned with statues and images of Dhṛtarāṣṭra, where devotees can offer prayers and make offerings.
Offerings: Offerings to Dhṛtarāṣṭra typically include food, incense, and jewels. These offerings symbolize gratitude and the desire for prosperity and protection.
Festivals and Traditions
Festivals: Various festivals are held in honor of Dhṛtarāṣṭra, particularly in regions where his worship is prominent. These festivals often include processions, rituals, and communal feasting.
Prayers: Devotees pray to Dhṛtarāṣṭra for protection, wealth, and the successful practice of the Dharma. Traditional prayers often invoke his role as a guardian and benefactor.
Traditions: The worship of Dhṛtarāṣṭra is deeply intertwined with the daily lives of Buddhist practitioners. His influence extends beyond religious practices, as he is also revered in various cultural and folk traditions.
Dhṛtarāṣṭra's role as a guardian king and protector of the Dharma embodies the core values and beliefs of Buddhism, emphasizing the importance of protection, prosperity, and the preservation of the Dharma.