Vajra

The vajra (Sanskrit: वज्र, lit. 'thunderbolt', IAST: vajra, Standard Tibetan: dorje) is a legendary and ritualistic tool, symbolizing the properties of a diamond (indestructibility) and a thunderbolt (irresistible force). It is also described as a "ritual weapon". It is used symbolically by the dharmic traditions of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, often to represent firmness of spirit and spiritual power. The use of a bell and vajra together as symbolic and ritual tools is found in all schools of Tibetan Buddhism. Physically, the vajra consists of a round, symmetrical metal scepter with two ribbed spherical heads. The ribs may meet in a ball-shaped top, or they may be separate and end in sharp points. The vajra is considered inseparable from the bell, and both are sold in dharma stores only in matching sets. The bell is also metal with a ribbed spherical head, and often depicts the face of Akasadhatvisvari, a female buddha and the consort of Vairocana. The vajra has also been associated as the weapon of Indra, the Vedic king of the devas and Svarga. In Hindu mythology, the vajra is depicted as one of the most powerful weapons in the universe.