Virūḍhaka
Guardian of the South
Deva
Place of Origin: India
Origin Date: Ancient times
Domain: Protection, order
Symbols: Sword
Attributes: Protector of the South, guardian of order
Epithets: None
Equivalents: None
Religion: Buddhism
Sacred Texts: Mentioned in various Buddhist scriptures
Iconography: Depicted holding a sword, often in a protective stance
Relations: Other Heavenly Kings
Description
Virūḍhaka is one of the Four Heavenly Kings in Buddhist cosmology. He is the guardian of the South and the leader of the kumbhāṇḍas and pretas. He is often depicted holding a sword, symbolizing his role as a protector of the southern direction.
Narratives
Virūḍhaka is known for his role in protecting the southern direction and maintaining order among the celestial beings.
Virūḍhaka and the Four Heavenly Kings
Virūḍhaka, also known as the Guardian of the South, is one of the Four Heavenly Kings (Lokapālas) who protect the world. He resides on the southern part of Mount Sumeru and rules over the kumbhandas, fierce beings who reside in the desire realms of the heavens. Virūḍhaka swore an oath of protection before the Buddha Shakyamuni, symbolizing his role as a protector and benefactor.
Virūḍhaka and the Kumbhandas
Virūḍhaka is the leader of the kumbhandas, fierce beings who reside in the desire realms of the heavens. He uses his power to ward off anything that would disrupt the Dharma and protects beings who have led a virtuous life from Yama, the Lord of Death.
Virūḍhaka and the Birth of the Buddha
When Gautama Buddha was born, Virūḍhaka, along with the other guardian kings, protected Buddha Shakyamuni's mother before the prince was born and continued to assist him during his lifetime.
Virūḍhaka and the Destruction of the Shakya Clan
Virūḍhaka, the son of King Prasenajit of Kosala, discovered that his mother was originally a servant rather than a noblewoman as the Shakyas had claimed. In revenge, he attacked and destroyed the Shakya capital Kapilavastu, slaughtering most of the Shakya inhabitants.
Worship Beliefs and Practices of Virūḍhaka
Virūḍhaka, also known as Zōchōten in Japanese and Jeungjang Cheonwang in Korean, is a significant figure in Buddhism. He is one of the Four Heavenly Kings and is considered the guardian of the southern direction. Virūḍhaka is revered as a protector and a divine being with the ability to promote growth and protect the Dharma.
Core Beliefs
Guardian King: Virūḍhaka is one of the Four Heavenly Kings, specifically the guardian of the southern direction. He is believed to protect the world from evil and ensure the prosperity and well-being of all beings.
Promoter of Growth: His name, Virūḍhaka, means "increase" or "growth," reflecting his role in promoting the growth of compassion and virtue among sentient beings.
Leader of the Kumbhanda: Virūḍhaka is the leader of the kumbhanda, fierce beings who reside in the desire realms of the heavens. He is believed to have control over these beings and their influence on the natural world.
Attributes and Significance
Depictions: Virūḍhaka is often depicted holding a sword, symbolizing his role as a protector and his ability to ward off evil. He is also shown clad in armor, emphasizing his warrior-like nature.
Cultural Influence: Virūḍhaka's influence extends across various Buddhist cultures, including Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Tibetan traditions. He is revered as a powerful guardian and protector of the Dharma.
Protector of the Dharma: Virūḍhaka is seen as a protector of the Buddha's teachings (Dharma). He is believed to safeguard practitioners and ensure the preservation and propagation of the Dharma.
Practices of Worship
Rituals and Ceremonies: Devotees perform various rituals and ceremonies to honor Virūḍhaka. These include offerings of food, incense, and other goods to seek his favor and protection.
Sacred Sites: Temples and shrines dedicated to Virūḍhaka can be found throughout Buddhist regions. These sites are often adorned with statues and images of Virūḍhaka, where devotees can offer prayers and make offerings.
Offerings: Offerings to Virūḍhaka typically include food, incense, and jewels. These offerings symbolize gratitude and the desire for prosperity and protection.
Festivals and Traditions
Festivals: Various festivals are held in honor of Virūḍhaka, particularly in regions where his worship is prominent. These festivals often include processions, rituals, and communal feasting.
Prayers: Devotees pray to Virūḍhaka for protection, growth, and the successful practice of the Dharma. Traditional prayers often invoke his role as a guardian and benefactor.
Traditions: The worship of Virūḍhaka is deeply intertwined with the daily lives of Buddhist practitioners. His influence extends beyond religious practices, as he is also revered in various cultural and folk traditions.
Virūḍhaka's role as a guardian king and protector of the Dharma embodies the core values and beliefs of Buddhism, emphasizing the importance of protection, growth, and the preservation of the Dharma.