Mahāvairocana (Da Ri Ru Lai) Thangka – The All‑Illuminating Buddha of Infinite Wisdom

A Vision of Dharmadhātu Wisdom

Known in Chinese as Dari Rulai (大日如來), Mahāvairocana is the Cosmic Buddha Buddha, the essence of ultimate light and truth. This thangka is a sacred vessel that channels his peaceful energy into the environment.

His four faces look in every direction, representing the wisdom that embraces all beings. Each stroke of gold reflects compassion, transforming darkness into radiant understanding.

Iconography and Meaning

Mahāvairocana, the “All‑Illuminating One,” stands at the center of the Five Tathāgatas. He embodies the universal, all‑embracing wisdom that sees the world as pure and complete.

Recognizing features

• White color for enlightened purity
• Four faces symbolizing omnipresent awareness
• Two hands in dhyāna mudrā resting in meditation
• Lotus seat of peace and stability
• Crown and ornaments for the regal dignity of enlightenment

The Sacred Assembly

Upper Realm – Buddhas of Light and Healing

• Amitābha Buddha (upper left): Red body and tranquil posture expressing eternal compassion and the Western Pure Land.
• Medicine Buddha (Bhaiṣajyaguru, upper right): Blue body holding a bowl of healing nectar, a source of balance and renewal.

Lower Realm – Tārās of Compassionate Activity

• Green Tārā (lower left): Graceful, alert, and protective; she removes fear and responds swiftly to suffering.
• White Tārā (lower right): Gentle and serene; she nourishes longevity and inner peace.

At the base: a golden treasure vase, representing Mahāvairocana’s endless gift of abundance and blessing.

Landscape and Symbolism

The black background represents the silence of emptiness, while the gold lines show light arising from perfect understanding. Soft green earth and circular clouds mirror the harmony between form and emptiness—a vision of complete balance.

Artistic Tradition

Created in the Menri‑inspired tradition of Tibetan painting, combined with Newar craftsmanship from Nepal. Fine gold detailing, rich lapis and malachite tones, and perfectly measured geometry make this piece both devotional and timeless.

Spiritual Purpose

• Meditation: Cultivate stillness and spacious awareness.
• Sacred Space: Enliven your altar or study with wisdom and healing.
• Daily Life: A visual reminder that wisdom and compassion are always within reach.

Sacred Practice and Blessing

Mantra Om Vairocana Mahāmudrā Mani Padma Jvala Pravartaya Hum Reciting this mantra awakens Mahāvairocana’s light in the heart and clears every shadow of confusion.

Blessing May the presence of Mahāvairocana (Dari Rulai) illuminate your life, guide your practice, and bring lasting peace and clarity.

Bring home the light of Dari Rulai. Let Mahāvairocana’s golden radiance fill your space with peace, mindfulness, and limitless strength