This lovely brocade mat is used to place your bell and dorje (vajra) during prayer ceremonies and individual meditation practices, or on one's shrine. The mat is made from traditional Tibetan style brocade. It was handmade in Kathmandu, Nepal by local artisans. Vajra is a Sanskrit word meaning both thunderbolt and diamond. The symbolic nature of a diamond is strength with the ability to cut any surface but not be cut itself ~ the thunderbolt is a powerful and irresistible force of enlightenment. Thus the Tibetan dorje represents firmness and power of spirit ~ a symbol for the nature of reality, or sunyata, indicating endless creativity, potency, and skillful activity.