When looking at depictions of Tibetan Buddhist deities, there are often ritual attributes to be seen in their hands, ranging from one or two, to many at the same time (depending on the number of arms the deity is displaying). Overall it can be said that the attributes held in the left hand(s) are related to the (feminine) principles of wisdom and the realization of the emptiness of all phenomena and the items held in the right hand(s) are related to the (masculine) principles of skillfull means and compassion-in-action. The combination of both principles as shown by the items in the left and right hands, is an inseparable one on the path to enlightenment.
Many of such items from the iconography of the buddhist deities, can also be implemented in one's own spiritual practices. A common pair of ritual attributes found in Tibetan Buddhist practice is that of the bell and dorje.
When used together, the bell is held in the left hand and the dorje in the right hand. The bell thus symbolizes the feminine principle of wisdom, or in this case more specifically; the sound of the bell echoes the sound of Emptiness or Shunyata. The dorje represents the masculine principle of active compassion. Wisdom and compassion, emptiness and form - they are inseparable.
Miniature versions of the bell and dorje symbols can also be found in buddhist jewelry, amulets and mala's. A very common example is the usage in mala counters; the extra set of small pendants/chains that can be attached to mala's as a support in keeping track of the number of repetitions of mantra's or chants. A set of such mala counters then consists of one with a miniature bell pendant and one with a miniature dorje pendant. These pendants here in our shop would be perfect for that purpose.
These pendants are made of brass which shows the signs of their vintage origin with some oxidation stains here and there. Each is approximately 2,5 centimeters long and weighs 1-2 grams.
Multiple ones available, sold per piece. You can choose between bell and dorje style with our selection-menu. From there, we will handpick the exact one for you at random.
