Akshobhya

Akshobhya, meaning immovable or unshakable, is a prominent figure in Buddhist iconography and soteriology. He is one of the Five Dhyani Buddhas, a group of transcendent Buddhas revered in Mahayana and Vajrayana traditions. Akshobhya embodies mirror-like wisdom, the clear and non-attached perception by which phenomena are reflected without grasping. His essential nature is described as unmoving, steadfast under samsaric conditions, and capable of transforming anger into wisdom.

In traditional cosmology, Akshobhya presides over the eastern direction and is associated with the element water and the color blue. In some lineages, he is linked to the Pure Land Abhirati, believed to be a realm of advanced insight attained through his practice.

Iconography commonly presents Akshobhya with a blue body, seated in meditation. A vajra, symbolizing indestructible firmness, is often depicted in his right hand; the left hand rests in meditation or holds a related mudra. These attributes reflect his function as the Buddha of immovability and pure perception.

In practice, Akshobhya is invoked in meditations that transform anger into mirror-like wisdom and foster unwavering mindfulness. He features prominently in Vajrayana mandalas and initiations, where practitioners visualize his form and recite associated mantras or seed syllables as part of purification and empowerment rites.