Material: Copper. Gold-plated. (Chassis only)

Size: Approx. 13 cm

Narrative:

Mandala Plate is an important offering instrument in Tibetan Buddhism, symbolizing the perfection of the universe and the mandala of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas. Its origin can be traced back to Indian Tantric Buddhism and it developed into a unique way of offering in Tibetan Buddhism.

**The story and origin of the Mandala plate**

The concept of mandala comes from the Sanskrit word "Mandala", which means "mandala" or "perfection". During the Tantric period in India, practitioners would use materials such as sand, rice, and flowers to draw mandalas on the ground as the basis for their practice. As Tantric Buddhism was introduced into Tibet, the form of the Mandala plate gradually evolved into a three-dimensional tower-shaped structure, and was made of metal, jewelry and other materials to add solemnity and beauty.

In Tibetan Buddhism, the offering method of the Mandala plate symbolizes offering all the treasures of the world, including the sun, the moon, the four continents, Mount Sumeru, etc., to the Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, guardian gods and dakinis. This way of offering not only accumulates merit, but also helps practitioners cultivate the spirit of giving, eliminate greed and attachment, and increase wisdom.

**How ​​to use the Mandala Plate**

The Mandala plate usually consists of four tower boxes and a screw top. Each tower box is a hollow ring and can be filled with various offerings, such as gold, silver, gems, grain, etc. When performing the ritual, practitioners recite scriptures and mantras while scattering offerings into the mandala plate, starting from the bottom layer and moving upwards layer by layer until they reach the top of the spiral, symbolizing offerings to the mandala of all Buddhas and Bodhisattvas.

The offerings of the Mandala Plate can be divided into:

- Outer Mandala: Offering worldly treasures, such as gold, silver, jewelry, food, etc.

- **Nemanda**: Offering to the practitioner's body and mind, symbolizing the perfection of wisdom and merit.

- **Mitmandala**: Offering of supreme wisdom, symbolizing the ultimate perfection of the dharma realm.

The practice of Mandala Plate can not only help practitioners accumulate merit, but also cultivate an inner pure mind, making the merit of offering more complete.