Mandala (literally meaning a circle) is Tantric meditation device. It has a visual aid for concentration and introvert meditation leading to the attainment of insight and also for activation of forces culminating in “siddhi” supernatural forces. The mandala is the graphic representation of this process. It is not only theoretical but practice realization of the process within onself. It thus become an instrument (yantra). There are many types and varieties of mandala depending on the nature of the central in multiple circles of flame, vajra, eight cemeteries, which appear only in wrathful deities, lotus and then the inner squares to reach of the deity of the mandala.
Mandala best demonstrates the symbol underlying geometric constructions used in Tantric ritual. The mandala has a fiery surrounds that protects the initiate against outside inferences and also it is symbol of the fire of wisdom that burns the initiate’s ignorance and karma. Inside the fiery surrounds is the adamant circle which symbolizes enlightenment. Next is a circle depicting eight graveyards which esoterically symbolize eight forms of world-enmeshed consciousness. The third circle is fashioned from lotus petals, representing spiritual regeneration or rebirth. This area has four gateways at which terrifying protector deities are stationed.
Mandala best demenstrotes the symbol underlying geometric constructions used in Tantric rituals. The mandala has a fiery surrounds that protects the initiate against outside interferences and also it is symbol of the fire of wisdom that burns the initiate’s ignorance and karma. Inside the fiery surrounds is the adamantine circle which symbolizes enlightenment. Next is a circle depicting eight graveyards which esoterically symbolize eight froms of worldenmeshed consciousness. The third cicrle is fashioned from lotus petals, representing spiritual regeneration or rebirth. This aread has four gateways at which terrifying protector deities are stationed.