Vaisravana or Vessavana, also known as Namtose in Tibetan, is one of the Four Heavenly Kings and holds significant importance in Buddhism. He is often depicted as a warrior-king and is associated with warfare. Vaisravana is known by various names in different cultures and languages, such as Kubera and Jambhala in Sanskrit, Kuvera in Pali, and Namtose in Tibetan.

Iconography:
Vaisravana is typically portrayed with a yellow face and can be seen carrying an umbrella or parasol as a symbol of his sovereignty. He is sometimes depicted with a mongoose, which is shown ejecting jewels from its mouth, representing generosity. His mount is a snow lion.

History:
Vaisravana's character is based on the Hindu deity Kubera, but he has his own distinct functions and associated myths. He is considered the guardian of the northern direction and resides in the northern quadrant of Sumeru. Vaisravana is the leader of all the yaksas who dwell on the slopes of Sumeru.

Temples and Monasteries:
In Tibet, Vaisravana is considered a lokapala or dharmapala in the retinue of Ratnasambhava. He is often depicted on temple murals outside the main door. In Thailand, there is a prominent statue of Vaisravana at Wat Chulamanee temple in Samut Songkhram Province.

Benefit of Practicing:
The practice of Vaisravana is believed to bring benefits such as wealth and prosperity. He is considered a god of wealth and abundance. Devotees seek his blessings to attain material well-being and cultivate a mindset of generosity and detachment from greed.

How to Practice:
The specific practices and rituals associated with Vaisravana may vary across different Buddhist traditions. Generally, devotees can engage in prayers, offerings, and meditation to establish a connection with Vaisravana and seek his blessings.

Mantras:
The mantras associated with Vaisravana vary depending on the specific tradition or lineage. Some common mantras include "Om Vasudhare Svaha" and "Om Jambhala Jalendraye Svaha." These mantras can be chanted as part of the practice to invoke Vaisravana's blessings and protection.

The character of Vai?rava?a is founded upon the Hindu deity Kubera, but although the Buddhist and Hindu deities share some characteristics and epithets, each of them has different functions and associated myths. Although brought into East Asia as a Buddhist deity, Vai?rava?a has become a character in folk religion and has acquired an identity that is partially independent of the Buddhist tradition (cf. the similar treatment of Guanyin and Yama).

Statue of Vai?rava?a as the guardian at the royal crematorium of King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand, 2017.

Vai?rava?a as the Seal of Udon Thani Province, Thailand

Tamonten statue at T?dai-ji, Nara

Partly gilded Tibetan bronze statue of Vaisravana (Jambhala) sitting on a snow lion and holding a mongoose in his left hand. 18th century

Vai?rava?a is the guardian of the northern direction, and his home is in the northern quadrant of the topmost tier of the lower half of Sumeru. He is the leader of all the yak?as who dwell on the Sumeru's slopes.

He is often portrayed with a yellow face. He carries an umbrella or parasol (chakra) as a symbol of his sovereignty. He is also sometimes displayed with a mongoose, often shown ejecting jewels from its mouth. The mongoose is the enemy of the snake, a symbol of greed or hatred; the ejection of jewels represents generosity.