Material: Fabric. Printing and dyeing. Embroidery (small pendant. Accessory)

Size: 3 cm X 2.6 cm

Description:

Mandala (Tibetan: དཀྱིལ་འཁོར་, dkyil 'khor, meaning "circular center" or "wheel circle") has profound religious, philosophical and symbolic significance in Tibetan Buddhism, and is an important way to express practice and teachings. The following is an overview of the meaning and origin of mandala:

 

**Meaning of mandala**

1. **Symbol of the universe**:

- Mandala is a geometric shape, usually circular, with a core in the center and symmetrical patterns around it, symbolizing the structure and harmony of the universe. It represents the laws of operation of all things in the universe, as well as the wisdom and compassion of the Buddha.

- The core of the mandala usually represents the deity (such as Buddha, Bodhisattva or Dharma protector), and the patterns on the periphery symbolize the various levels of the universe, including pure land, sentient beings and reincarnation.

 

2. **Tools for practice**:

- The mandala is an object of meditation and visualization, helping the practitioner to focus their mind and enter a deep state of insight. By visualizing the mandala, the practitioner can realize the impermanence and emptiness of the universe and thus approach enlightenment.

- The mandala is also used in initiation ceremonies (a Tibetan Buddhist ritual of transmission of Dharma) as a connection between the deity and the practitioner, guiding the practitioner into the wisdom of the deity.

 

3. **The doctrine of impermanence**:

- The mandala is often drawn with colored sand, and the production process is extremely delicate, but it is deliberately destroyed after completion, symbolizing impermanence (everything is temporary and not eternal). This reminds the practitioner to let go of attachments and realize the true nature of all things in the world.

 

4. **Mind map**:

- The mandala is seen as a blueprint of the mind, reflecting the practitioner's inner state. Its structure guides the practitioner from the outer worldly level (samsara) to the pure wisdom (nirvana) in the center.

 

**Origin of the Mandala**

1. **Historical and Cultural Origins**:

- The concept of the mandala originated from ancient Indian Buddhism, especially the Tantric (Vajrayana) tradition, and was later introduced to Tibet with the development of Tibetan Buddhism. The earliest form of the mandala can be traced back to the 7th-8th century AD, which is related to the rise of Indian Tantric Buddhism.

- In Tibetan Buddhism, the mandala combines the Tantric rituals of Indian Buddhism with the elements of the native Bon religion in Tibet to form a unique style.

 

2. **Classical Basis**:

- The design of the mandala is inspired by the tantric scriptures (such as the Kalachakra Tantra), which describe the structure of the universe and the pure land of the deity. The graphics and ritual details of the mandala are usually regulated by these scriptures.

- Different sects (such as the Nyingma, Kagyu, Sakya, and Gelug) have their own mandala traditions, which are related to specific deities and practices.

 

3. **Production and Form**:

- The mandala takes various forms, including paintings (Thangka), three-dimensional sculptures, sand mandala, and virtual mandala in mental visualization. The sand mandala is one of the most representative forms of Tibetan Buddhism, carefully crafted by monks with colored sand.

- The structure of the mandala usually includes a circle (representing the universe), a square (representing the four directions and the human world), a center point (representing the deity or the core of the universe), and symmetrical patterns, which contain profound mathematical and philosophical meanings.

 

**Role in culture and practice**

- **Ritual use**: The mandala is often used in important religious ceremonies such as initiation, offerings, and blessings. The process of making the mandala is also a practice in itself, reflecting concentration and dedication.

- **Symbol of harmony**: The symmetry of the mandala symbolizes the balance and harmony of the universe, reminding practitioners to pursue inner peace and enlightenment.

- **Modern influence**: The mandala not only has an important position in Tibetan Buddhism, but also has influenced contemporary art, psychology (such as Jung's concept of mandala) and meditation practice.

 

**Summary**

The mandala is a symbol of the universe, wisdom and practice in Tibetan Buddhism. It originated from Indian Tantra and developed into a unique form through the integration of Tibetan culture. It is not only the core element of religious rituals, but also a tool for practitioners to explore the truth of the mind and the universe. Through the creation and visualization of mandala, Tibetan Buddhists can realize the profound teachings of impermanence, emptiness and Buddha nature.