Empire 184. The Buddhist Merlin
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Sep 9, 2024 Dive into the mystical world of Vajrabodhi, a 8th-century Buddhist magician who journeyed from India to China. Explore his enchanting tales of rain dragons and military miracles that blend magic with history. Learn about his apprentice, Amoghavajra, and their legendary feats during a drought and invasions. The fascinating discussion touches on Tantric Buddhism, the secrets behind Borobudur, and the colorful cultural tapestry of ancient Asia. Discover how these sorcerers used spells to intertwine spirituality with the fate of nations.
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Vajrabodhi's Ascent of Adam's Peak
- Vajrabodhi, a Buddhist magician, climbed Adam's Peak in Sri Lanka, despite its dangers.
- After burning incense and praying, the weather cleared, beasts hid, and he found a spring filled with jewels.
Calming the Typhoon
- Vajrabodhi and Amoghavajra faced a typhoon while sailing to China.
- Vajrabodhi performed a tantric rite, calming the storm and creating a still area around their ship.
Rainmaking in China
- After Vajrabodhi arrived in China during a drought, the emperor asked him to pray for rain.
- Heavy rain followed, and people believed he had captured a dragon, causing a hole in the altar's roof.