Japanese Esoteric Buddhist Ritual Implement - 20th Century Vajra Staff (33 cm total length)

Japanese Esoteric Vajra Staff | 20th Century Esoteric Ritual Implement Sandalwood Handle 33 cm | Short Staff Version, for creating audible sounds Japanese Esoteric Buddhist Ritual Implement 20th Century Vajra Staff Religious artifact, less than a century old Length: 33 cm Material: Sandalwood handle Short size, not the long ascetic version Acquired from an overseas collector The price of such ritual implements is generally modest, not comparable to ritual bells and vajras. Used by ascetic monks in the mountains in earlier years, they were shaken or tapped on the ground to create sounds, used to drive away snakes and insects. The sound of this ritual implement also served to protect its user from the harm of evil spirits and malevolent entities. The Vajra Staff represents the heritage of Japanese Buddhist culture. Legend has it that it symbolizes Kūkai, the founder of Shingon Buddhism, and accompanies pilgrims. During pilgrimages, the staff is also tapped on the ground as a gesture of respect and to pray for peace. 4500-115.01.02