The Journey of Shantikar Vajracharya
Shantikar Vajracharya (शान्तिकर बज्राचार्य) was born as King Prachanda Deva (प्रचण्ड देव) in Gaud, a region in present-day Bengal, India. Deeply inspired by the virtues of Dharma, he renounced his throne and left behind his royal comforts to embark on a sacred pilgrimage.
At every holy site he visited, he performed ritual baths and made generous donations. He attained the three concentrations (tri-samadhi) and dedicated himself to practicing virtuous vows. Wandering from one shrine to another, he not only practiced yoga but also preached its teachings with devotion.
Eventually, his journey brought him to the breathtaking Nepal Valley, now known as the Kathmandu Valley. The magnificence of the place deeply moved him. From a distance, he saw the radiant Swayambhu Dharmadhatu and saluted it with eight bodily prostrations. Drawn closer, he beheld its divine light and offered his respects with awe and reverence.
Upon arrival, he bowed and paid homage to the luminous Swayambhu Dharmadhatu. There, he encountered the eight vitaragas (Astavitaraga – अष्टवीतराग), whom he worshipped, praised, and served with great devotion. He also performed ritual worship for the Great Goddess Khaganana Nairatyma Guheswari. Finally, he visited the shrine of Manjushri, where he praised and worshipped the deity with unwavering faith.
The Birth of Shantashri: The Calm Gentleman
Through the spiritual merit he gained from his devoted practices and selfless acts, he attained profound tranquility. His mind, body, and soul became harmonized, radiating an aura of peace and virtue.
Adhering to a life of discipline, he embraced the vow of celibacy, which further strengthened his inner calm and spiritual clarity. This serenity was not limited to his thoughts; it extended to his physical presence, making him a symbol of calmness and sanctity.
Because of this remarkable transformation, he was honored with the name Shantashri (शान्तश्री), meaning “calm gentleman.” This title reflected both his tranquil demeanor and the profound harmony he achieved through his devotion to Dharma. Shantashri’s journey became a testament to the power of spiritual discipline and inner peace.
Shantikar Vajracharya: The Guardian of Peace and Prosperity
The wise Bodhisattva Shantashri took the sacred Vajracharya vow, dedicating his life to the welfare of all sentient beings. In an act of profound reverence, he concealed the radiant Swayambhu Dharmadhatu under a massive rock and constructed a towering brick stupa upon it. This stupa became a symbol of spiritual devotion and architectural grandeur.
Around the Swayambhu Hill, he established the five elemental gods—Wind, Fire, Earth, Water, and Sky—each positioned with meticulous care. His devotion further extended to the construction of a shrine dedicated to the deity Manjushri, solidifying his legacy as a devout practitioner and builder of sacred spaces.
Through his selfless actions, Shantashri became known as a wise and compassionate Bodhisattva, tirelessly striving for the betterment of the world. He brought peace during times of chaos, spreading glory, joy, and celebration wherever he went. In times of famine and drought, he invoked the serpent lords through prayer and ritual, ensuring life-sustaining rainfall for the people.
Shantashri’s wisdom, compassion, and power allowed him to pacify disasters and create a harmonious environment. His unparalleled contributions earned him the name Shantikar (शान्तिकर), meaning “bringer of peace.” He achieved a level of prosperity and divinity that was said to be unmatched in the past and would remain unequaled in the future.
By removing chaos and misery and fostering happiness and celebration, Bodhisattva Shantikar became a revered figure across all three worlds – Earth, Heaven, and Hell. It was believed that no other Bodhisattva like Shantikar Vajracharya had ever been born, nor would one ever be born again, making his legacy truly extraordinary.
The Blessings of Shantikar Vajracharya
Those who seek refuge in Shantikar Vajracharya, serve him with devotion, and perform rituals in his honor are said to attain profound happiness. Their souls are purified, freed from the burden of misery, and they gain mastery over their senses. These devotees are filled with virtues, prosperity, and divine blessings.
Meditating on his name, remembering his deeds, and chanting his praises with sincere faith are believed to cleanse one’s sins. Through such devotion, the mind, speech, and body are transformed into a divine state. Virtues multiply, and ultimately, one reaches Bodhi – the supreme state of enlightenment and awakening.
Swayambhu Purana – Table of Contents
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Chapter 10: Shantikar and Good Rainfall »