Vajrabodhi, a legendary Buddhist tantric magician, played a pivotal role in introducing Buddhism to China. He shares tales of magic, including the creation of rain dragons to solve droughts and powerful spells used against invaders. The podcast explores his colorful journey alongside his apprentice Amoghavajra, delving into the interplay of magic and military strategy. Listeners are taken through the enchanting legacy of the Borobudur temple and its ties to Vajrabodhi's teachings, blending history with the mystique of centuries past.
Vajrabodhi's magical feats not only showcased his extraordinary abilities but also highlighted the intersection of spirituality and spectacle in early Indian history.
His diplomatic journey to China facilitated a significant cultural exchange, intertwining advanced knowledge in Buddhism alongside practical magical prowess during times of instability.
Deep dives
The Mystical Life of Vajrabodhi
Vajrabodhi is portrayed as a remarkable Buddhist Tantric magician from South India, with a biography that sheds light on a historically obscure period. His name reflects his magical prowess, as 'Vajra' means magic wand and 'Bodhi' signifies wisdom. Unlike traditional representations of Buddhism, which often focus on meditation and high philosophy, Vajrabodhi is celebrated for his extraordinary magical abilities, including summoning rain and performing spells that could turn the tide of battles. This character symbolizes the dynamic intersection between spirituality and spectacle in early Indian history, positioning Vajrabodhi as a crucial figure in the evolution of Tantric Buddhism designed to compete with the more visually captivating narratives of Hinduism.
Diplomatic Missions and Magical Feats
Vajrabodhi's journey to China was prompted by political and geographical pressures on both India and China, particularly from invading Tibetan forces and the advancing armies of Islam. As a renowned magician, he was summoned by his cousin, the Palava king, to undertake an important diplomatic role, during which he performed miraculous feats, including conjuring rain during a period of severe drought. His successful demonstrations of magic not only solidified his reputation but also reflected the intertwining of diplomacy and mysticism during a time of instability. Along the way, he gathered valuable knowledge and insights that would later contribute to a significant cultural exchange between India and China.
Legacy of Vajrabodhi and Amogravadra
The legacy of Vajrabodhi extended beyond his magical exploits; he was instrumental in the transmission of Indian Buddhist teachings to China, aided by his apprentice Amogravadra. Together, they became influential figures in the Chinese Buddhist community, revered for their intellect alongside their magical prowess. While their biographers primarily highlighted their magical accomplishments, they also played a vital role in sharing advanced knowledge in cosmology, medicine, and ritual practices. This cultural exchange culminated in lasting monuments, such as Borobudur, and laid the foundation for the evolution of Buddhist practices in Southeast Asia and beyond, demonstrating the deep interconnectedness of spirituality and scholarly pursuit.
While in the West the legends of King Arthur were being born, a Buddhist tantric magician of immense magical powers - Vajrabodhi - was enshrining himself as the Merlin of first India, and then China. Undeniably one of the most extraordinary characters of the 8th century, Vajrabodhi would play a crucial role in transporting Buddhism to the Chinese court, along with Indian scholarship. After being sent there on an important embassy by his cousin, a mighty Pallava king of Southern India, Vajrabodhi embarked upon a colourful odyssey to rival those of antiquity, meeting, as he went, a young boy who would later become his loyal companion and a powerful sorcerer in his own right; Amoghavajra. Together they were alleged to have sent rain dragons to cure droughts, and concocted spells or mantras capable of destroying the invading hordes of Islam and the Tibetans. What then is the truth of these exceptional monks and their purported “magic”? Did they really conquer rampaging armies and even master the elements?
Join William and Anita as they discuss Vajrabodhi, the Buddhist magician of India, and his sorcerer’s apprentice. From wizards, spells, and rain dragons, to invading armies, and the secrets of the previously unexplainable Borobudur…