Golden Vajrasattva statue

Vajra means “diamond” or “indestructible,” and sattva means “being.” It translates as “being of indestructible mind,” representing the pure nature of the mind. He is generally depicted as white—symbolizing total purity and the cleansing of karmic impurities—and serves as an archetype for purification practices.

Once purchased, the statues undergo consecration. What does this mean? The term "consecrate" comes from the Latin consecrāre: con- (together or wholly) and sacrare (to make sacred or dedicate to the sacred). It is a ritual that transforms an object into a spiritual vessel—endowing it with value for practice—and marks a special moment when "life" is breathed into the statue by filling it with small rolled-up mantras, substances, and symbols. This process is performed by Lama Norbu, the center's teacher. For this reason, delivery may take an additional 2 to 3 weeks.