Placement in the Assembly: Vajragarbha First, Mokṣacandra Last

Avataṃsaka Sūtra: Chapter on the Ten Grounds (Daśabhūmikāvatāra)

In this chapter, an immeasurably large assembly Bodhisattva Mahasattvas gather to hear teachings on the Ten Grounds. Vajragarbha and Mokṣacandra are among those present. Their placement is significant.

Vajragarbha Bodhisattva is named first and Mokṣacandra (Moon of Liberation or Liberation Moon, depending on how we translate) Bodhisattva is named last.

Vajra (Sanskrit: वज्र) represents both indestructibility and all-destroying power. In the context of the Avataṃsaka Sūtra and Mahāyāna teachings, the dual nature of Vajra highlights its multifaceted symbolism.

Indestructibility:
The Vajra symbolizes unbreakable resolve and unwavering commitment to the path of enlightenment. It represents the Bodhisattva's vow to remain steadfast in their pursuit of liberation, even in the face of adversity.

All-Destroying Power:
The Vajra also symbolizes the transformative power of wisdom and compassion. It represents the ability to cut through the veil of deluded unknowing, addiction, and hatred, liberating oneself and others from suffering.

The sequence likely reflects the following:

Inclusivity and Unity

The placement of Vajragarbha at the beginning and Mokṣacandra at the end signifies the completeness and inclusiveness of the assembly. The Bodhisattvas represent different aspects of the path, from the beginning stages to the final realization and actualization of the end of all suffering.

By starting with Vajragarbha and ending with Mokṣacandra, the sutra emphasizes that the entire spectrum of spiritual development is represented, from the initial awakening to the final liberation.

Indestructibility and Resolve:
Placed first, Vajragarbha Bodhisattva embodies the initial commitment and determination required to embark on the Bodhisattva path. This placement emphasizes the importance of establishing a strong foundation of faith, courage, and unwavering dedication.

Protective Wisdom:
As the first Bodhisattva, Vajragarbha represents the protective wisdom that shields practitioners from distractions and obstacles, ensuring they remain on the path toward enlightenment.

Vajragarbha embodies the indestructible and all-destroying nature of enlightenment, symbolizing the awakening and the unshakable resolve of the Bodhisattva path.

Mokṣacandra (Liberation Moon) can be a symbol of the final realization of serenity and the radiance of liberation, representing the culmination of the Bodhisattva journey.

Transformation and Liberation:
Positioned last, Mokṣacandra Bodhisattva signifies the culmination of the Bodhisattva journey. The moon, representing transformation and illumination, embodies the ultimate goal of liberating all beings from suffering.

Serene and Compassionate Wisdom:
As the final Bodhisattva, Mokṣacandra symbolizes the compassionate wisdom that arises from the completion of the Bodhisattva path. This wisdom radiates outward, guiding and illuminating the entire assembly.

Cosmic Scale

The placement might also reflect the cosmic scale of the Avataṃsaka vision.

Vajragarbha, with its diamond/lightning-like quality, can represent the ground of all things (or "dharmas"), while Mokṣacandra represents the radiant fulfillment of all paths. Together, they encapsulate the vastness of the Bodhisattva’s journey.

Sequential Development

From a structural perspective, the sequence could highlight the sequential development of the Bodhisattva path. Starting with Vajragarbha (representing the initial ground) and ending with Mokṣacandra (representing the final ground) underscores the progression and completeness of the Bodhisattva journey.

Why It Matters in Context

In the broader context of the Avataṃsaka Sūtra, which often emphasizes the interconnectedness of all phenomena, (or "interbeing") the placement of these Bodhisattvas serves to reinforce the idea that every stage of the path is essential and interconnected. It highlights the importance of recognizing the entire spectrum of spiritual development, from the initial awakening to the final liberation.

The Whole Assembly Included

The placement might also have something to do with the inclusion of the entire assembly. In the Avataṃsaka tradition, the idea of the dharmadhātu — the realm of all dharmas — is central. The placement of names in such a way reinforces the idea that every aspect of the path is present and interdependent, reflecting the vastness and completeness of the Bodhisattva’s journey.

Additional Passages on Vajra and Moon Symbolism

To further elucidate the meaning of these names and their placement, consider the following passages:

From the Mahāvairocana Sūtra

"The Vajra of the Tathāgata's Body shines forth from the lotus of the heart, breaking through the darkness of deluded unknowing. It is indestructible, yet it destroys all obstacles on the path of enlightenment."

This passage reinforces the dual nature of Vajra as both indestructible and all-destroying, highlighting its role in breaking through ignorance and protecting the Bodhisattva's resolve.

From the Dharmadhātu Sūtra

"The moon rises above the horizon, casting its radiant light upon the earth. It transforms the night into a realm of clarity and peace, guiding travelers to their destination."

This metaphor emphasizes the moon's role in transforming the darkness of deluded unknowing into a realm of clarity and peace, symbolizing the ultimate goal of the Bodhisattva path.

By examining these passages, we gain a deeper understanding of the symbolic significance of Vajragarbha and Mokṣacandra in the Avataṃsaka Sūtra. Their placement in the list of Bodhisattvas reflects the complete cycle of the Bodhisattva journey, from unwavering commitment to compassionate transformation.