Fivefold Divinity: The Panca Buddha in the Heart of Chaitya Art
Unveiling the symbolism and meaning behind the five transcendental Buddhas
West facing deities carved on a Chiva (19th Century)Chiva Chaitya
Panca Buddha
Comprised of Vairocana, Amitabh, Amoghasiddhi, Akshyobhya, and Ratnasambhava, the Panca Buddhas symbolize the Buddha’s various teachings. Unlike Shakyamuni, the human Buddha from 2,500 years ago, these Buddhas are conceptual representations of deeper philosophical teachings.
A Chiva (20th Century)Chiva Chaitya
Mandala and Positioning
Mandalas are sacred circles where deities are positioned based on scriptural guidance. Different mandalas house different deities, with the Vajradhatu and Dharmadhatu mandalas featuring the Buddhas from the Panca Buddha.
Amitabh Buddha on a Chiva (20th Century)Chiva Chaitya
Amitabh Buddha
Amitabh Buddha, in deep red and seated in Dhyani Mudra, faces west on the Chaitya, aligned with the Vajradhatu Mandala’s sacred placement.
South face of a Chiva (19th Century)Chiva Chaitya
AmoghSiddhi Buddha
This Chiva features the AmoghSiddhi Buddha, known for their unwavering resolve. The Buddha faces north, displaying the fearlessness of Abhaya Mudra, and is shielded by a seven-headed serpent, representing protection.
Akshyobhya Buddha on a Chiva facing east. (19th Century)Chiva Chaitya
Akshyobhya Buddha
Akshyobhya faces east on the Chaitya, depicted in the Bhumi-Sparsha Mudra, symbolizing unwavering resolve on the path to enlightenment, undeterred by any obstacles.
Ratnasamvab Buddha facing south on a Chiva (18th Century)Chiva Chaitya
RatnaSambhav Buddha
RatnaSambhav Buddha, depicted facing south on a Chiva, embodies generosity and compassion. He is shown in Varada Mudra, the boon-giving gesture, symbolizing his ability to grant wishes and blessings.
Vairocana Buddha carved on a dome(anda) of a Chiva (19th Century)Chiva Chaitya
Vairocana Buddha
Vairocana, the white Buddha of wisdom, resides at the heart of the Vajradhatu Mandala. His position signifies universal enlightenment, and he is often not depicted in the cardinal directions.
He is sometimes seen in other locations, symbolizing the boundless nature of wisdom.
South facing deities carved on a Chiva (19th Century)Chiva Chaitya
Conceptual Buddha
Panca Buddhas are taken as conceptual Buddhas and not human Buddha. They represent each of various subjects. The five wisdoms, the five elements, the five human characteristics etc. Thus the philosophy have been developed to teach about those knowledge about life and the world.
Chiva Chaitya Organization
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