Heruka (Chakrasamvara) is a principal Deity (Tantric Buddha) of the class of Mother Tantra in Tibetan and Indian Buddhism. Heruka represents the embodiment of indivisible bliss and emptiness.

Heruka is typically depicted with a blue-coloured body, four faces, and twelve arms, and embraces his consort Vajravarahi. Other forms of the deity are also known, with varying numbers of limbs. Heruka and consort are not to be thought of as two different entities, as an ordinary husband and wife are two different people; in reality, their divine embrace are a metaphor for the union of great bliss and emptiness, which are one and the same essence.

See also

• Wrathful deities

References

• Gyatso, Geshe Kelsang. Essence of Vajrayana. New York: Tharpa Publications, 2003.

External links

• Thangka Painting of Buddha Heruka with Vajravarahi
• Thangka Painting of Chemchok Heruka with Consort

Yidams | Mahayana Buddhism | Tibetan Buddhism