Mandala (मण्डल) is the Sanskrit word meaning symbols. It is a geometric representation of the dynamic relationship between man and the cosmos.

 

 

 

In fact, every mandala is the plastic and visual display of the return to unity by delimiting a sacred space and actualizing a divine time. In primitive societies, the cosmic cycle, which had the image of a circular path (circumference), was identified as the year. The symbolism of the sanctity and eternity of the temple appears clearly in the mandala structure of the sanctuaries of all eras and civilizations.

 

 

 

Since the architectural plan of the temple is the work of the gods and is located in the center very close to them, this sacred place is free from all earthly corruption. Hence the association of temples with cosmic mountains and their function as a link between Earth and Heaven.

 

 

 

As an example, we have the huge construction of the Borobudur temple in Java, Indonesia. Other examples we can cite are the Christian basilicas and cathedrals of the early Church, conceived as an imitation of the heavenly Jerusalem, representing an ordered image of the cosmos, of the world.

 

 

 

The mandala as symbolism of the center of the world shapes not only cities, temples and royal palaces, but also the most modest human dwelling. In the dwelling of primitive populations it was common to build from a central pole and put its inhabitants in contact with the three levels of existence: lower, middle and upper. For them, dwelling was not only a shelter, but the creation of the world that imitates divine gestures. For man, the mandala represents his inner shelter, and allows a reunion with God.

 

 

The mandala always presents a great profusion of colors and represents an object or figure that helps concentration to reach other levels of contemplation. Originally created in chalk, mandalas are a sacred meditation space. Today they are made with sand originating in India. Usually divided into four sections, they are intended as an exercise in meditation and contemplation. The purpose of art in Tibetan Buddhist culture is to reinforce the Four Noble Truths. Mandalas are considered very important for the preparation of Buddhist initiates to study the meaning of enlightenment.

 

 

 

The process of building a mandala is a form of constant meditation. It is a very slow process, with meticulous movements. The great benefit for those who meditate from the mandala lies in the fact that they mentally imagine it built in a detailed three-dimensional structure.

 

In the process of building a madala, art becomes a religious ceremony, and religion becomes art. When the mandala is finished, it presents itself as an extremely colorful construction. After the cycle it is dismantled, the sand is usually deposited in water. Only a part is kept and offered to the participants.

 

A monk begins the destruction by drawing circular lines with his finger, then spreads the sand and places it in an urn. When the sand is all collected, they erase the lines that guided the construction and pour the sand into the river. And so another small cycle closes to make way for a new cycle.