Hayagriva Statue - Antique Thai Style Seated Bronze Hayagriva Avatar of Vishnu - 12.5cm/5"

Hayagriva Statue - Antique Thai Style Seated Bronze Hayagriva Avatar of Vishnu - 12.5cm/5"

Measurements H 12.5cm/5"

An antique Thai style bronze seated sculpture of Hayagriva . 

Hayagriva is a significant deity in both Hinduism and Buddhism, known as an embodiment of fierce compassion, protection, and wisdom. As here, he is typically depicted with a horse’s head, and his name itself means "Horse-Necked." In different traditions, his role and symbolism may vary, but he is consistently seen as a protector and destroyer of negative energies. 

Hayagriva in Hinduism

In Hinduism, Hayagriva is an incarnation of Vishnu, the preserver of the universe. He is revered as the god of knowledge and wisdom, often associated with restoring sacred knowledge to humanity. The legend of Hayagriva describes how he recovered the Vedas (sacred scriptures) after they were stolen and hidden under the ocean by demons. In this role, Hayagriva is venerated by scholars and students seeking success in their studies, and he is sometimes worshipped during rituals related to wisdom and learning.

Key Symbolism in Hinduism:

• Wisdom and Knowledge: Hayagriva is often invoked for intellectual and spiritual insight. His recovery of the Vedas symbolizes the preservation of sacred knowledge.
• Protection from Ignorance: As an incarnation of Vishnu, Hayagriva's mission involves vanquishing ignorance and restoring order, emphasizing the victory of wisdom over darkness.
• Horse Head: The horse head of Hayagriva symbolizes speed and strength, traits necessary to protect and recover sacred knowledge from evil forces.

Hayagriva in Buddhism

In Buddhism, Hayagriva takes on a different but equally important role. He is regarded as a wrathful form of Avalokiteshvara, the bodhisattva of compassion, and is worshipped for his power to overcome obstacles, illnesses, and demonic forces. Despite his fierce appearance, Hayagriva’s essence is deeply compassionate, as he helps practitioners clear away obstacles to enlightenment and protect themselves from negative forces.

Key Symbolism in Tibetan Buddhism:

• Wrathful Compassion: Hayagriva's fierce appearance, including his horse head, is not meant to inspire fear but to represent his determination to eliminate ignorance and negativity for the benefit of all sentient beings.
• Healing and Protection: He is often invoked to protect against illnesses, malevolent forces, and internal obstacles on the path to enlightenment.
• Esoteric Practice: Hayagriva plays a prominent role in Vajrayana (Tibetan) Buddhism, where his imagery is used in tantric rituals to help practitioners transform negative emotions into wisdom.

Significance of Hayagriva in Personal Practice

For devotees of both Hinduism and Buddhism, Hayagriva offers powerful spiritual protection and guidance. Worshipping him is believed to help in overcoming obstacles, gaining wisdom, and maintaining mental clarity. 

Why Devotees Invoke Hayagriva:

• Protection from Ignorance: As a symbol of knowledge and wisdom, Hayagriva is invoked to dispel confusion and ignorance in one’s life.
• Healing: Particularly in Buddhism, Hayagriva is associated with healing, especially in removing serious obstacles like illness or malevolent forces.

Conclusion

Hayagriva’s unique iconography and powerful symbolism make him a significant deity in both Hinduism and Buddhism. Whether viewed as an incarnation of Vishnu restoring knowledge to humanity or as a wrathful protector of wisdom and compassion, Hayagriva is revered for his ability to overcome ignorance, protect devotees, and lead them toward spiritual enlightenment. His horse-headed form serves as a reminder of his speed and strength in accomplishing these divine tasks.

The intricate detail, dark patina and design of this piece are particularly appealing.

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