“Phur-pa” (Ritual Dagger)

Ritual dagger (“phur-ba”) used in Vajarayâna and Tantric Buddhism to mark out sacred spaces and repel evil spirits. There are records of this type of object being used in Tibet from the 8th century. It symbolizes divinity in and of itself, without the need for any representation, and is associated with Thursday and the planet Jupiter.
It is made using copper alloyed with various metals, the properties that ward off evil spirits. The dagger consists of three assembled pieces. The top piece has three crowned heads that represent peace, joy, and wrath. The central piece is composed of a “vajra” or sceptre, a ritual object of great importance in Tantric Buddhism. And the bottom piece is a triple-bladed knife symbolic of the fire of knowledge that consumes and annihilates all demons. The three blades representing the three virtues—charity, chastity, and patience—that can destroy the three vices (hate, slovenliness, and envy) protrude from the open mouth of a “makara” (aquatic monster).
Priests use these kinds of daggers in specific initiation ceremonies, for example to mark out the mandala, a geometric design that symbolizes sacred Buddhist spaces. It is also believed that touching them provides protection from evil spirits, and they are also used to conjure and kill evil spirits. Only Buddhist priests who have been initiated may use these daggers. It is said that their incorrect use may have dire consequences.