Achi Chokyi Drolma
Achi Chokyi Drolma (Wylie: A phyi chos kyi sgrol ma) is an important Dharma protector deity in the Drikung Kagyu tradition of Tibetan Buddhism.…
Achi Chokyi Drolma (Wylie: A phyi chos kyi sgrol ma) is an important Dharma protector deity in the Drikung Kagyu tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. He is revered as an embodiment of compassion and wisdom, helping to protect and guide practitioners on the path of practice.
Legend
Achi Chokyi Drolma is a real historical figure, who lived around the 11th century in Tibet. According to legend, he was born into a Brahmin family in East Bengal, India. As a child, he met the Bodhisattva Nagarjuna, who taught him the basic Mahayana teachings and appointed him as the ruler of the kingdom in Bhalenta. After many years of living in rich silk velvet, Achi Chokyi Drolma decided to abandon the kingdom to become a monk. He was ordained as a monk at the Somapuri Conclave in Bengal and began his monastic career there.
In one of his visions, he received instructions from a dakini on the path to enlightenment Vajrayana and was imparted the entire teachings of Chakrasamvara Tantra. Achi Chokyi Drolma later received many teachings from great spiritual master Vajrayana such as Acharya Charyawa and Lawapa, becoming a master of the bardo (intermediate state between death and rebirth), phowa (transfer of consciousness), tummo (inner fire), and countless other oral teachings.
Origin and incarnation
Achi Chokyi Drolma is considered an incarnation of Vajrayogini, the embodiment of infinite wisdom and compassion. She was also the grandmother of Jigten Sumgon, the founder of the Drikung Kagyu lineage. He appears to help protect and guide practitioners on the path of practice, helping them overcome all obstacles and attain enlightenment.
Roles and Meanings in Drikung Kagyu
In the Drikung Kagyu tradition, Achi Chokyi Drolma is revered as a powerful Dharma protector deity. He helped protect monasteries and practitioners, ensuring that they could practice in peace and not be disturbed by demonic forces or obstacles. He is also considered an embodiment of compassion and wisdom, helping practitioners purify karma and achieve fullness of wisdom.
Symbols and qualities
Achi Chokyi Drolma is often depicted with many characteristic symbols:
- Horseback Sitting Posture: A symbol of agility and the ability to overcome any obstacle.
- Aquarius: A symbol of compassion and blessings.
- Protective Sword: Symbolizes the ability to destroy ignorance and protect the dharma.
His qualities include infinite compassion, transcendent wisdom, and the ability to protect all sentient beings from all dangers and obstacles.
References:
Tags: Achi Chokyi Drolma, Vajrayana, Tibetan Buddhism, Meditation, Achi Chokyi Drolma Sutras, Buddhist Practices, mantra Achi Chokyi Drolma, Five Minds of Buddha, Traditions Drikung Kagyu
