On the simplest level, colorful sand mandalas are yet another visual cue for meditation, a reminder of the impermanence of the physical world, a "gorgeous option for merit-making. If looked at abstractly, however, these dazzling displays may be viewed as a blueprint of the universe or perhaps a diagram of natural perfection, literally the cosmic houses of deities. Easiest to understand may be the idea that mandalas, meticulously meted out one precious grand of sand at a time, are two-dimensional representations of sacred architecture, a gods' eye view of the region's beloved stupas. |
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It's easy enough to appreciate the beauty and majesty of intricate mandalas without actually knowing how to "read" them, but as with thangkas and steles, there are recurring motifs and specific sacred intent at work here.The division of primary colors should be read clockwise and can represent direction, iconic buddhas, elements, the physical senses, and even may incorporate the iconic actions such as affirmation, meditation, teaching, etc. |
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According tot he home site of the above mandala, http://www.loselmaitribuddhist.org/Teach_mandala_1.htm, the green circle in the center with a lotus symbolizes Amitabha. "The central figure is surrounded by an eight-petaled lotus. On the red petal directly below the lotus, in the Eastern side of the mandala, is a blue vajra symbolizing Akshobhya. On the red petal to the left of the central lotus, as you face the mandala, which represents the Southern direction, is a yellow jewel symbolizing Ratnasambhava. To the right, in the North, is a green sword symbolizing Amoghasiddhi, and above the lotus, in the West, is a white dharma wheel. Each of the symbols of the heads of the Buddha families stands upon a lotus and moon seat. Thus we see that within the circle which makes up the central portion of the mandala are found the heads of each of the five Buddha families. They are surrounded by a protective chain of vajras emanated from the heart."
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For a small look at different mandalas, check out this mandala slide show. Again, not meant to be an exhaustive look at mandala iconography, but a glimpse into what is possible. |
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And for a more in depth look at reading mandalas. Check out this article by Dr. Martin Brauen as he looks at mandalas at the Ruben Museum |
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