Significance of Mandala
Mandala, according to Buddhism, refers to a symbolic representation of the universe, often used in meditation and rituals, indicating the spiritual journey toward enlightenment. It serves as a visual and spiritual tool, encompassing the cosmos and illustrating the relationships between deities. In Tibetan Buddhism, mandalas take on complex geometric forms that symbolize various spiritual connections and are essential in ritual practices. Overall, mandalas are integral in depicting the universal order and guiding practitioners in their spiritual endeavors.
Synonyms: Circle, Wheel, Diagram
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Mandala'
In Buddhism, a Mandala symbolizes the universe, serving as a spiritual and geometric representation utilized in meditation and rituals. It acts as a tool for enlightenment, embodying the cosmos' structure and spiritual relationships.
From: Guhyagarbha Tantra (with Commentary)
(1) Diverse geometric patterns or representations that encompass religious and spiritual significance, as displayed in the imagery of the text.[1] (2) Geometric designs representing the cosmic and spiritual universe in Tibetan Buddhism, often containing assemblies of deities.[2] (3) A sacred geometric configuration used in the ritual space during the rite.[3] (4) A symbolic representation or map of the universe used in Tibetan Buddhism, denoting the perfect state of awareness.[4] (5) A spiritual or symbolic structure that represents the universe in Hindu and Buddhist cosmology; serves as a focus for meditation and rituals.[5]
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) A symbolic representation of the universe used in Tantric practices, often serving as a focal point for meditation and rituals.[6] (2) A spiritual symbol used in meditation, which stag lung thang pa offered to ‘gro mgon as a sign of devotion.[7] (3) A ritual geometric figure that represents the universe in Hindu and Buddhist symbolism, central to the rites lha rje rgya nag performed.[8] (4) Symbolic geometric designs that represent the universe in Hindu and Buddhist spiritual traditions, used in meditation and rituals.[9] (5) A spiritual diagram often used in Tantric practices to symbolize the universe and the interactions of divine energies.[10]
From: The Six Yogas of Naropa
(1) Symbolic representations of the universe often used in meditation to visualize the interconnectedness of all things.[11] (2) A symbolic diagram used as a platform for rituals in Yoga practices, often created for specific deities or Buddhas.[12] (3) A sacred geometric representation symbolizing the universe in meditation practices, formed through visualization of deities.[13] (4) A ritual symbol that represents the universe and serves as an offering in Tantric practices.[14]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) A symbolic representation of the cosmos used in meditation and ritual, often associated with the path to enlightenment.[15] (2) A symbolic representation of the universe in Buddhism, indicating the inner spiritual journey towards enlightenment.[16] (3) A symbolic representation often used in spiritual rituals, depicting the cosmos and serving as a spiritual guide.[17] (4) A symbolic representation of the cosmos, used in meditation and rituals, encompassing all aspects of spiritual practice.[18] (5) Symbolic representations in Buddhism that serve as visual and spiritual tools for meditation and practice.[19]
From: The gods of northern Buddhism
(1) A symbolic geometric design used in meditation and spiritual practices within Buddhism, often representing the universe.[20] (2) A ceremonial dish used in rituals, featuring representations of spiritual worlds, often included in altars.[21] (3) A symbolic representation of the cosmic order in Buddhism, illustrating the relationships between various spiritual entities.[22]
From: Karandavyuha Sutra
(1) A geometric structure described as square with a circumference of five cubits, central to the religious practice outlined in the chapter.[23] (2) A geometric configuration that symbolizes the cosmos and spiritual journey, used in the context of Avalokiteshvara's teachings.[24]
From: Abhidharmakośa
(1) A structured representation of cosmological elements forming the basis of spatial relationships in various realms.[25]
Hindu concept of 'Mandala'
In Hinduism, a Mandala is a sacred geometric design used in ritual worship, symbolizing the universe and serving as a focal point for meditation, representing spiritual energies and the cosmic order within various religious practices.
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A mystic design drawn on the ground for the purpose of worship.[26] (2) A circular arrangement or sacred diagram, referred to in the context of the discus used by Janardana.[27] (3) A mystical diagram used in the ritualistic worship and meditation on the Sun, symbolizing the sacred space for the performance of rites.[28] (4) A mystical circle used in rituals, which the Brahmanas were encouraged to worship daily.[29] (5) A mystic diagram used in worship, which is beautifully drawn and adorned to represent sacred space.[30]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) A geometrical design used in rituals, serving as a sacred representation in worship.[31] (2) A sacred geometric diagram representing the universe and used in rituals to focus divine energies during worship.[32] (3) A sacred geometric design representing the universe, often used as a focal point in meditation and worship.[33] (4) A geometrical design or pattern used as a sacred space in worship.[34] (5) A sacred geometric design or schematic used as a focal point for worship and meditation.[35]
From: Linga Purana
(1) The sacred space where the idol of Lakshmi embellished with all ornaments is placed.[36] (2) Mystic diagrams drawn as part of the ritual offerings to enhance spiritual practices during worship.[37] (3) Cosmic circles or realms that the sun traverses, indicating different stages of its journey.[38] (4) The sacred geometric space where the kalpa tree is to be placed on the altar, symbolizing order and spirituality.[39]
From: Padma Purana
(1) A ritual diagram representing the universe, used in worship and meditation practices.[40]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) Meditative symbols representing the sun, moon, and fire, which are thought of in sequence during the ritual.[41]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) A spiritual and geometric representation used in Hindu and Buddhist rituals, sometimes depicted in the context of deities.[42]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Geometric configurations used in worship, specifically drawing patterns like padmas and sarvatobhadras in temples.[43] (2) A term meaning 'surrounding area,' 'camp,' 'hermitage,' 'estate,' or 'one’s own land,' explaining the context of the location being discussed.[44]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Means circle, a shape that may represent the form or arrangement in which the elements are arranged within the structure.[45]
From: Vastu-shastra (Introduction to Indian architecture)
(1) Animal rings found in the pith of trees, used as criteria during the oak selection process.[46] (2) A term used to denote any closed polygon, significant in the Vastu-Purusha-mandala concept, particularly in reflecting cyclic time.[47]
From: Samarangana-sutradhara (Summary)
(1) Technicalities observed during cutting operations, indicating the presence of animals and insects beneath trees.[48]
From: Nitiprakasika (Critical Analysis)
(1) A term referring to the different formations or stances associated with weapon movements.[49] (2) A sitting position with both legs folded together.[50]
From: Shishupala-vadha (Study)
(1) A term referring to a geometric arrangement or formation used in strategical military contexts.[51]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) Symbolic representation, often referred to as a wheel or a cave, related to spiritual practices.[52]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) Contextually relates to the conceptual space within which Brahman, the Self, and the teachings operate.[53]
From: Natyashastra (English)
(1) The combination of three or four Khandas, representing a comprehensive grouping of movements.[54]
From: Dasarupaka (critical study)
(1) Another term for district or administrative region in Gujarat.[55]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A collection or group of verses in the Rigveda, central to the ritualistic practices and expiation processes.[56]
From: Apastamba Grihya-sutra
(1) A term used to describe a book or section of the Vedic texts, particularly in the context of the Rig-veda.[57]
From: Varahi Tantra (English Study)
(1) Mandala is a significant ritual space referenced in the teachings that involve specific practices and rituals.[58] (2) A circular diagram that represents the universe and the spiritual journey, mentioned as a flourishing space of Šiva.[59]
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) The sacred circle used in rituals for meditation and worship, often representing the universe.[60] (2) A spiritual circle created for performing rituals and worship, representing the cosmos.[61]
From: Amarakoshodghatana of Kshirasvamin (study)
(1) A term representing one of the five archery postures specified by Kshirasvamin.[62]
From: Harshacharita (socio-cultural Study)
(1) A geometric design drawn on the ground in the Tantrika practices for the worshiping of deities, often associated with ritualistic performances.[63]
From: Paduka-panchaka (the five-fold footstool)
(1) The geometric representation of a spiritual concept, which in this context, is characterized by the corners of the triangle marked by the letters Ha, La, and Ksha.[64]
From: Shaiva Upanishads (A Critical Study)
(1) Forms or circles used by Virabhadra to prepare his chariot for battle.[65]
From: Kashyapa Shilpa-shastra (study)
(1) Geometric arrangements or layout frameworks within temple architecture that govern the positioning and styles of gopuras.[66]
Jain concept of 'Mandala'
In Jainism, Mandala signifies the solar divisions in cosmology, representing the sun's movement, while also denoting a masculine noun for dog, highlighting themes of animal domestication within the belief system.
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) The divisions or zones associated with the sun in Jain cosmology, indicating its position and movement.[67]
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A masculine noun meaning dog; signifies animal domestication.[68]
The concept of Mandala in local and regional sources
The keyphrase "Mandala" encompasses three distinct concepts: inter-state relationships symbolized by concentric circles, geometric designs used in Tantric Buddhism meditation, and an administrative division in medieval India, highlighting its multifaceted role in culture and governance.
From: Tibet (Myth, Religion and History)
(1) Geometric designs representing the universe that are used in meditation practices within Tantric Buddhism.[69]
From: Impact of Vedic Culture on Society
(1) An administrative division that can correspond to a revenue division or a larger territorial area than a vishaya during the medieval period.[70]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The ancient Indian concept of inter-state relationships represented as concentric circles of states, aiming at maintaining a balance of power.[71]
The concept of Mandala in scientific sources
Mandala describes a circular or patchy skin manifestation in Dooshivisha, the eye's structural organization with five layers as per Sushruta, and circular lesions in skin disorders like Dadru Kushta, highlighting its diverse medical significance.
From: International Ayurvedic Medical Journal
(1) Refers to lesions or patches that appear on the skin, often assessed in skin conditions.[72] (2) The five circular layers of the eye as defined by Sushruta that describe its structural organization.[73] (3) Circular lesions observed in certain skin disorders, indicative of certain conditions like Dadru Kushta.[74] (4) A form of skin manifestation or symptom observed in patients affected by Dooshivisha, recognized as a round or patchy skin change.[75]
From: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
(1) The discoloration or coloration of the skin lesions in Shwitra observed and assessed in the study's parameters.[76] (2) Rounded lesions or patches that manifest on the skin, significant in diagnosing skin diseases such as Dadru.[77] (3) A symptom characterized by erythema or red patches on the skin, significant in the assessment of Ekakushta.[78]