Table of Contents
< All Topics

The Four Heavenly Kings(四大天王):

The Four Heavenly Kings are Dhṛtarāṣṭra, Vaiśravaṇa, Virūḍhaka, and Virūpākṣa, four Divine Generals representing the four cardinal directions—east, west, south, and north—and symbolizing harmonious climates.

Dhṛtarāṣṭra, the Guardian of the East, is depicted in white armor, holding a lute or pipa, tasked with protecting the nation’s territory.

Vaiśravaṇa, the Guardian of the North, is in green armor, holding a treasure umbrella in his right hand and a silver mouse in his left, his role being to guard meditation sites, listen to the Dharma, and bestow Merit upon people.

Virūḍhaka, the Guardian of the South, dressed in blue armor and wielding a treasure sword, aids in fostering kindness in humans.

Virūpākṣa, the Guardian of the West, clothed in red armor and entwined with a dragon or snake, is charged with observing and protecting the populace with his clear vision.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Shopping Cart