Vajra and the Bell (Buddhist Symbols series)

The vajra and bell are sacred objects used in Buddhist Tantric ritual. Their apprearance may be familiar to us from Tibetian Buddhism, but how much do we know of the depth of their significance? Vessantara lays before us an unexpected array of associations and images, and ever deeper levels of meaning, to enrich our understanding of these powerful and fascinating symbols.

Introduction
1 Development of the Vajrayana
2 Taking up the Vajra and the Bell
3 The Vajra as Diamond
4 The Vajra as Philosopher's Stone
5 The Vajra as Thunderbolt
6 The Vajra as Sceptre
7 The Vajra in Detail
8 The Bell - Sounding Wisdom
9 Bells and Their Uses
10 The Vajra-Bell as Emptiness
11 The Vajra-Bell as Mandala
12 Vajra and Bell Together
13 Vajra and Bell in Highest Tantra
14 The Vajrahumkara Mudra
15 Ritual Uses of the Vajra and Bell
16 The Double Vajra
17 Ritual Implements and Mandalas
18 Holders of the Vajra
19 The Buddha Vajradhara
Conclusion
Notes and References
Index