The Black God of Wealth is known as Black Jambhala, or sometimes Krishna Jambhala. This significant deity in Tibetan Buddhism is a manifestation of compassion and abundance, specifically invoked to alleviate poverty and bring prosperity.
Understanding Black Jambhala
Black Jambhala is a prominent wealth deity, recognized for his profound commitment to helping sentient beings overcome financial hardship. His emergence is rooted in a specific request from Buddha Shakyamuni.
Origin and Purpose
Black Jambhala is not merely a symbolic figure but a powerful emanation with a divine purpose:
- Divine Manifestation: He is a direct manifestation of Amoghasiddhi Buddha. This connection highlights his role in liberating beings from suffering, particularly that caused by poverty.
- Requested by Buddha Shakyamuni: His manifestation came about at the specific request of Buddha Shakyamuni. The intention was to "turn the wheel of Dharma" (spread Buddhist teachings) in a way that directly benefits those suffering from poverty, ensuring they can focus on spiritual practice without the burden of material lack.
- Alleviating Poverty: His primary function is to eliminate poverty and bestow wealth and stability, enabling individuals to pursue their spiritual path and lead fulfilling lives.
Popularization in Tibet
The reverence for Black Jambhala was significantly popularized in Tibet through the efforts of influential teachers:
- Bari Lotsawa: Born in 1040, Bari Lotsawa was instrumental in bringing many practices and deities, including Black Jambhala, into wider Tibetan Buddhist circles.
- Shakyashri Bhadra: A renowned Kashmiri teacher, Shakyashri Bhadra also played a crucial role in disseminating the teachings and practices associated with Black Jambhala, further embedding his importance in the Tibetan spiritual tradition.
Key Aspects of Black Jambhala
To provide a clearer understanding, here's a summary of the Black God of Wealth:
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Primary Name | Black Jambhala |
| Alternate Name | Krishna Jambhala |
| Tibetan Name | Dzambhala, Nag Po |
| Origin | Manifestation of Amoghasiddhi Buddha |
| Purpose | To alleviate poverty, benefit sentient beings, and support the turning of the Dharma wheel |
| Popularized By | Bari Lotsawa (b. 1040) and the Kashmiri teacher Shakyashri Bhadra |
Black Jambhala's presence signifies hope and material well-being for practitioners, allowing them to overcome obstacles related to wealth and focus on their spiritual development.
