Mahamayuri, also known as the Great Peacock Wisdom King, is a revered figure within Buddhist traditions, particularly in Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism. She is recognized for her association with protection and healing, especially against various forms of harm, including poisons and diseases. Mahamayuri embodies qualities of wisdom, compassion, and transformation, offering blessings and spiritual insight to those who venerate her. Her practices are believed to overcome obstacles, illness, and spiritual hindrances.
Origins and Role in Buddhist Tradition
Mahamayuri’s presence within Buddhist traditions dates back centuries, with her origins linked to an Indian goddess of the same name. She gained prominence in Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism, where she is known as a female deity or “Wisdom Queen.” Her dharani, or magical incantation, was translated into Chinese by Kumārajīva between 402 and 412 CE.
She is regarded as one of the Five Great Protectresses, also known as Pancaraksha, a group of five female divinities mentioned in a tantric text dedicated to dharani. Her role emphasizes protection from toxins, venom, and illnesses. The Mahamayuri Vidyarajni Sutra, a Mahayana Buddhist scripture, attributes to her mantra the power to alleviate diseases, afflictions, and fears, acting as a shield for all living beings. She is often depicted with a benevolent and compassionate expression.
Symbolic Depictions and Attributes
Mahamayuri’s iconography is rich with symbolic meaning, often depicting her with a radiant appearance. She is frequently portrayed riding a peacock, which serves as her vehicle and is a symbol of poison transformation. The peacock’s ability to consume venomous substances without harm represents Mahamayuri’s power to transmute negativity and illness.
Her depictions commonly show her with multiple arms, typically four, each holding specific implements that convey aspects of her protective and healing powers. These attributes can include:
A lotus flower, symbolizing respect and love.
A Bijapūraka, often interpreted as a karma fruit, representing regulation.
An auspicious fruit, signifying the accumulation of merits.
A peacock tail, which symbolizes alleviation from disasters.
These elements communicate her ability to dispel harm and foster spiritual well-being.
Invocation and Protective Practices
Devotees engage with Mahamayuri through various practices aimed at seeking her protection and healing. A primary practice involves the recitation of her mantra, which is central to the Mahamayuri Vidyarajni Sutra. This sutra outlines the belief that chanting her mantra can cure illnesses and provide protection from harm.
Visualization is another common practice, where practitioners mentally invoke Mahamayuri’s image and attributes, focusing on her compassionate presence. These practices are undertaken with the purpose of gaining protection from various adversities, including illnesses, natural disasters, and negative influences. For instance, the Mahamayuri mantra is traditionally believed to be effective in treating snake bites and other maladies, a concept supported by narratives within Buddhist texts. Some traditions also suggest that completing a significant number of mantra recitations, such as 600,000, can lead to positive spiritual outcomes.