Mahakala
Sakyapa Monastery, Central Tibet, 17th century
Copper with traces of gilt and paint
Los Angeles County Museum of Art
Gift of Dale Crawford, M. 79.184

Mahakala "The Great Black One" is a popular Dharmapala or protector of the faith in both Nepal and Tibet. Holding a chopper and a skull cup, he stands ready to dice up his enemies (obstacles to enlightenment) and swallow their blood. A ring of fire surrounding the head heightens the destructive potential of the deity and often symbolizes the cremation grounds. Like Penden Lhamo, he has a third eye, giving him the power to see the ultimate reality of nonduality.

On a more personal level, Dharmapalas symbolize the triumph over the demons within the psyche -- anger, hatred and violence -- that account for humanity's negative impulses. These works of art conjure the self-centered ego whose passions and desires obscure sensitivity and compassion towards other beings. By meditating upon images of these deities, the dark forces and ignorance within can be directly confronted and no longer feared, clearing the way for transformation and positive energies.

In addition to his function as a Dharmapala, Mahakala may also be a personal yidam or guiding deity. The initiation rites associated with Mahakala are extremely complex and only open to those advanced enough in the practice of Vajrayana Buddhism to handle his fierce aspects.