Black Jambhala

Jambhala is a wealth-bestowing deity, as expressed by the characteristic attribute he holds in his left hand, a mongoose disgorging jewels. It is believed that eliminating the “poison” of greed brings wealth. Snakes are a symbol of avarice, and the mongoose, as the destroyer of the snake, is therefore seen as a symbol of prosperity. Images of the mongoose disgorging jewels are meant to remind us that we receive by giving. Jambhala’s broad belly reflects a common visual expression of prosperity found across Asia.