Heruka Chakrasamvara thangka

[Lobsang Damchoi]

I'm hoping that someone out there can explain the source or significance of a Heruka thangka card. I received it at a Drikung empowerment and the only explanation I got was that it was very precious. The original thangka is quite old or has deteriorated. It has one distinctive feature: two footprints. The figure directly above the yab-yum might be Gampopa. Many other figures surround the central couple on all sides.

Thanks for any answers or leads. // Jon

[conebeckham]

we'd have to see an image to comment, but in general foot or handprints on a thangka signify a master's blessing of the image. Heruka Chakrasamvara is of course the main yidam in the Kagyu lineages, along with Dorje Phagmo, the mother.

Depending on the empowerment you received, and the guru you received it from, these may point to the significance of the image. It's hard to tell without seeing it.

[Lobsang Damchoi]

Thanks Didn't realize that about thangkas...
This is the 1st thangka I've ever seen w/ f-prints -- or the 1st w/ such prominent ones anyway; the f-prints are actually larger (taller & a bit wider) than the central yab-yum. Will try to make a copy over the next couple days and send. It was a Chakrasamvara empowerment that I attended...
Thanks again.
L.D.

[PeterC]

Someone who has received that empowerment is supposed to carry an image of the Yidam with them at least until they reach the stage of wearing the attire - presumably that would be why they gave you an image, as to the significance of the specific image, hard to say, the footprints are probably an important lineage lama.

[lelopa]

https://www.himalayanart.org/items/5830 ... 602,2304,0

https://www.himalayanart.org/items/8596 ... 102,4087,0