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MANDALA
Mandala (Literally meaning a circle) is a Tantric meditation device.
It is a visual aid for concentration and introversive meditation leading
to the attainment of insights and to activation of forces culminating
in "Siddhi" supernatural forces. The Mandala is the graphic representation
of this process. It is not only theoretical but practical as an operational
scheme involving a clear plan for practical realization of the process
within oneself. It thus becomes an instrument (Yantra). There are
many types and varieties of mandalas depending on the nature of the
central deity. The most classic pattern of mandalas are of the Dhyani
Buddha. This pattern appears in the oldest tantrics, The mandala represents
"Palace of Purity" a magic sphere cleansed of spiritual obstacles
and impurities. The square of the 'sacred palace' proper is enclosed
in multiple circles of flame, vajra, eight cemetries lotus, then the
inner square to reach of the deity of the Mandala. |
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MATSYA (Fish)
It is a first incarnation of Vishnu, therefore may be associated with
him. Suvarna matsya, the two golden fish, symbolizing beings rescued
from the ocean of misery of earthly existence. It is also one of the
eight auspicious signs of Astamangalas. |
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MAYURAPICCHA (Feathers)
It is a three peacock feathers spread in a kind of fan. The feathers
are from the peacocks. |
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NAGA (Serpent)
Ramnant of early fertility rites. Worshipped as divine and semi-divine
beings. Frequent ornament of guardian tantric deities. Nagas have
power to bring or with held rain. So, they are regarded as Gods of
rain. They are believed to be the protector of the law of Buddha. |
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NAKULA (Mongoose)
A Mongoose vomiting jewels, is associated with God of wealth Kubera
and his Buddhist counterpart, Jambala. It is believed to be the receptacle
of all gems and when the God of wealth presses the animal, it vomits
forth all the riches. |
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PADMA (Lotus)
Padma is a lotus which may be of any colour except blue. The blue
lotus is designated by the word Utpala or Nilotpala. In Tantric works
the Padma is the day lotus, while Utpala stands for the night lotus.
It is regarded as especially sacred by all classes of Indians. When
the lotus shows petals in both the upper and lower directions it is
called the Viswapadma or the double lotus. Padma indicates purity
of descent. In Buddhist tradition it symbolises self creation (Hence
it is the sign of Swayambhu). In Vajrayana it represents the female
principle. White open padma appears above the left shoulder of Avalokiteswara
Padmapani, his spiritual Parents are Dhyani Buddha Amitabha and White
Tara. |
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PHURPA
A "magic dart" used especially for the ritual slaying of human effigy
of foe. |
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PRAYER WHEEL
It is exclusively Buddhist praying instrument which always bears the
mystical word "OM MANI PADME HUM" numbering six syllables in the mantra
of Avalokiteswara. The syllables are carved outside the wheel as well
as kept inside the wheel printed in the paper in numerous number.
When it turns one round it means the mantra is red how much mantra
has kept inside the wheel. |
