The Vajra (Dorje) and Ghanta (the bell) are important sacred objects used in tantric rituals and practices.
Holding the Vajra in the right hand symbolically connects us to the Buddhas (and especially our own Yidam). The Bell in the left hand is like cradling the entire mandala of the Yidam.
The Vajra represents compassion and method—the five male perfections; the Bell represents the female perfection of wisdom.
Together these ritual implements represent the inseparability of wisdom and compassion in the enlightened mindstream.
Developing the mental qualities of compassion combined with wisdom is the essence of the path to enlightenment.
The ringing of the bell can remind one of the emptiness of phenomena or bring the mind into greater awareness. As a musical instrument, its sound can be an offering to the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas.
