Satrig Ersang
Satrig Ersang, also known as Yingkyi Yum Chemma or Sherab Chamma, is a principal female deity in the Yungdrung Bön tradition of Tibet. She is revered as the embodiment of wisdom and is one of the Four Transcendent Lords, the highest deities in Bön cosmology.
Theology and role
Satrig Ersang, or Sherab Chamma, is considered the principal goddess in the Bön religion, ranking among the highest deities. She embodies wisdom and learning. She is often depicted seated with her legs tightly crossed and her hands at her heart, holding a mirror and a left-facing swastika above her shoulders. These symbols represent wisdom and eternity.In Bön iconography, she is usually depicted alongside the other three Transcendent Lords Shenlha Okar, Sangpo Bumtri, and Tonpa Shenrab Miwoche, forming a set of paintings, sculptures, or murals commonly found in Bön temples and shrines.
Iconography
Satrig Ersang/Sherab Chamma is often portrayed seated on a lion throne under a throne arch, decorated with pairs of vases, dragons, boys, and makaras, at the apex of which is a garuda. The background of such depictions typically includes miniature representations of the goddess, symbolizing her pervasive presence.In some thangkas, she is shown holding twin lotus stems supporting a mirror and a prayer wheel, flanked by attendants and surrounded by the 250 enlightened ones, emphasizing her role as a central figure in the Bön pantheon.