Vajrasattva represents the synthesis of the Five Dhyani Buddhas, a group of five non-historical celestial Buddhas who are visualized during meditation. They are to be distinguished from historical Buddhas, such as Gautama Buddha or Padma Sambhava. Together with Vajrasattva, the Five Dhyani Buddhas are the central deities of esoteric Buddhism. They represent five different aspects of enlightened consciousness and are guides to our spiritual transformation. In Tibetan Buddhism, student meditators are introduced to the experience of meditation on the Five Dhyani Buddhas through the “sixth Dhyani Buddha,” Vajrasattva.

The purpose of our meditation on these celestial beings is to help us awaken to the potential of our own Buddha nature and to find oneness with the Buddhas. These Buddhas also reflect back to us how the components of our consciousness can be transformed into wisdom.

Vajrasattva’s name means “Diamond nature,” because he represents the essence of our own pure, diamond nature. He is the role model of the devotee, and to become like him we must internalize the wisdoms of all the Dhyani Buddhas, for Vajrasattva has the attainment of all five.

Vajrasattva is invoked at the beginning of many Tibetan initiations. Here candidates meditate on him and recite his mantra to purify themselves and prepare for further advancement on their path to enlightenment. Ultimately, the devotee comes to realize that Vajrasattva is to be found in the center of his own being, seated on a lotus throne in the secret chamber of his heart.

Mark L., Prophet; Elizabeth Clare, Prophet. The Masters and Their Retreats (p. 379). Summit University Press. Kindle Edition.