Achi Chokyi Drolma (Wylie: A phyi chos kyi sgrol ma) is an important 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 Bodhisattva Nagarjuna, who taught him the basic Mahayana teachings and appointed him as ruler of the kingdom at Bhalenta. After many years of living in luxury, Achi Chokyi Drolma decided to leave the kingdom to become a monk. He received his ordination as a monk at Somapuri Tantric Monastery in Bengal and began his academic career there.
In one of his visions, he received instructions from a Dakini on the path to sudden enlightenment of esoteric teachings and was transmitted the entire Chakrasamvara Tantra teachings. Achi Chokyi Drolma later received many teachings from great Tantric masters such as Acharya Charyawa and Siddha Lawapa, becoming a master of the Bardo dharmas (the 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 boundless wisdom and compassion. She was also the grandmother of Jigten Sumgön, 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 achieve enlightenment.
Role and meaning in Drikung Kagyu
In the Drikung Kagyu tradition, Achi Chokyi Drolma is revered as a powerful guardian deity. He helps protect monasteries and practitioners, ensuring that they can practice in peace and without being disturbed by evil forces or obstacles. He is also considered an embodiment of compassion and wisdom, helping practitioners purify karma and achieve perfect wisdom.
Symbols and qualities
Achi Chokyi Drolma is often depicted with many characteristic symbols:
- Sitting position on horse: Symbolizes agility and the ability to overcome all obstacles.
- Aquarius: Symbol of compassion and blessing.
- Treasure sword: Symbolizes the ability to destroy ignorance and protect dharma.
His qualities include boundless compassion, transcendent wisdom, and the ability to protect all living beings from all dangers and obstacles.
Reference source:
Tags: Achi Chokyi Drolma, Vajrayana, Tibetan Buddhism, Meditation, Achi Chokyi Drolma Sutra, Buddhist Practice, Achi Chokyi Drolma Mantra, Five Buddha Wisdoms, Drikung Kagyu Tradition
