History of the Mandala
What
is a Mandala?
A mandala
(Sanskrit for “circle”) is a sacred, symbolic diagram, used as a
meditational aid in Buddhism and Hinduism.
Buddhist and Hindu mandalas often contain images of
Buddhas, bodhisattvas (Sanskrit for "enlightened beings") or deities.
A traditional mandala is a "blueprint" of a temple of
the gods, as well as of the entire universe.
A
yantra (Sanskrit for "instrument") is a geometrical diagram which
can represent a deity or divine figure. Called "instruments of worship"
in Hinduism, yantras are meant to inspire inner visualizations,
meditations, and experiences in the worshipper.
While mandalas usually contain
lettering or images of Buddhas or deities, yantras are mainly
geometrical.
"Mandala" and "yantra" are
sometimes used interchangeably. Many use the term "mandala" to refer to
any circular image or sacred circle.
Why Create a Mandala?
Mandalas are
most often used as meditational tools. In psychotherapy,
mandalas can be used to help resolve problematic emotional states and
gain insight into hidden problems. In Tibetan Buddhism, mandalas are
often constructed with an intention of planetary healing and are used in
peace ceremonies.

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