At the center is Vajradhara Buddha, the primordial Buddha representing the source of all teachings. Vajradhara embodies the unity of wisdom and compassion, and the essence of all Buddhas. He is typically depicted seated in a meditative posture, holding the vajra in his right hand, symbolizing indestructible wisdom, and a bell in his left hand, representing the wisdom of emptiness.
The tree includes the key lineage masters of the Sakya tradition, such as Sakyapada, Khön Phakpa, Sakya Pandita, and later masters like Khyentse Wangpo. They are depicted holding sacred objects like the vajra and dharma wheel, signifying their role in transmitting the teachings.
Around Vajradhara and the lineage masters are Yidam deities such as Vajravarahi, Avalokiteshvara, Manjushri, and Vajrapani, representing wisdom, compassion, and protection.
Dakinis (like Yeshe Tsogyal) and Dharmapalas (such as Mahakala) protect the Dharma and guide practitioners on the path, helping to remove obstacles and empower meditation.
The tree grows from a wish-fulfilling jewel, symbolizing the potential for all beings to attain Buddhahood. Its trunk represents the lineage of teachings, and the light radiating from the tree dispels ignorance.
At the roots are symbols of all sentient beings, representing the practitioner’s compassion to bring all beings to liberation.
The tree is surrounded by clouds of offerings like flowers, incense, and light, symbolizing devotion, purification of negative karma, and the cultivation of bodhicitta.
The Sakya Refuge Tree is used for taking refuge in the Three Jewels, strengthening connection to the lineage, and cultivating wisdom, compassion, and skillful means through visualization and prayer.