Buddhist Mythology

The Gods and Bodhisvattas of Enlightenment...

MAHAKALA

Buddhist Protection God

Also known as Gönpo, Mgon Po, Nagpo Chenpo

The Great Black One

One of the Dharmapalas, Mahakala is a terrifying deity of protection. It’s for your own good! In case of trouble he will charge in on a lion and scare away your troubles.

He is identified with Shiva in righteous wrathful Tibetan Buddhist mode. He is usually depicted as a black figure with a crown of five rattling skulls and three fierce eyes frowning. Arms: variable. Generally between two and six.

He is known in Japan as the cheery Daikoku.

Mahakala Facts and Figures

Name: Mahakala
Pronunciation: Coming soon
Alternative names: Gönpo, Mgon Po, Nagpo Chenpo

Gender: Male
Type: God
Celebration or Feast Day: Unknown at present

Role:
In charge of: Protection
Area of expertise: Protection

Good/Evil Rating: GOOD, quite approachable
Popularity index: 6291

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Article last revised on September 20, 2018 by Rowan Allen.
Editors: Peter J. Allen, Chas Saunders

References: Coming soon.

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