🔶 Introduction
In the Medicine Buddha Sutra, the historical Buddha shares how Medicine Buddha made twelve great vows to relieve beings of suffering and karma. Accompanying Him are the 12 Yaksha Generals, each leading 7,000 yakshas—together forming a force of 84,000 protective spirits devoted to shielding those who recite the sutra or His name.
✅ Spiritual Significance
- Yakshas were once nature spirits, later becoming Dharma protectors.
- Represent: 12 hours, 12 months, and 12 links of dependent origination.
- Symbolize the omnipresence of protection through time, space, and consciousness.
🙏 The 12 Yaksha Generals – List & Roles
# | Name (Sanskrit – Chinese – Vietnamese) | Symbolism | Protector of… |
---|---|---|---|
1 | Kumbhīra – 宮悉利 – Cung Tật Lợi | Swift wisdom | Memory, alertness |
2 | Bhadra – 跋闍羅 – Bạt Xà La | Vitality, healing | Chronic illness, stamina |
3 | Midura – 迷篤羅 – Mi Đồ La | Dispeller of ignorance | Clarity, correct view |
4 | Andira – 安怛羅 – An Đạt La | Tranquility, peace | Anxiety, sleep, fear |
5 | Bhamara – 跋摩羅 – Bạt Ma La | Purity, exorcism | Negative energies, cleansing |
6 | Kendala – 建馱羅 – Kiện Đà La | Resolute strength | Willpower, perseverance |
7 | Vikruta – 毘利質多 – Tỳ Lợi Chất Đa | Discernment, faith | Right view, clarity |
8 | Apālāla – 阿跋羅 – A Bát La | Life-force revival | Recovery, resilience |
9 | Catura – 招杜羅 – Chiêu Đổ La | Emotional healing | Anger, resentment |
10 | Vākula – 跋吉刺羅 – Bát Kiết La | Steadfast awareness | Mental balance |
11 | Anila-mardana – 阿那末勒陀 – A Nậu Mạt Lặc Đa | Mind pacification | Distraction, doubt |
12 | Mahoraga – 摩睺羅伽 – Ma Hầu La Da | Mystical protection | Spiritual obstacles |
🌺 Their Vows
💡 Why Practice With Them?
- Heal physical and emotional suffering
- Transform karma and past hindrances
- Strengthen spiritual defenses
- Increase wisdom, life force, and peace
📿 Daily Devotion
- Recite the Medicine Buddha Sutra (best on lunar 8th, 14th, 15th, 23rd)
- Chant: “Namo Bhaisajyaguru Vaidurya Prabhava”
- Call upon the Generals for specific support as needed
📌 Conclusion
The Twelve Yaksha Generals represent the timeless, all-encompassing power of the Medicine Buddha’s compassion and wisdom. Inviting their presence into your daily life brings protection, strength, and spiritual clarity for walking the path of healing and liberation.