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A mandala represents an invitation to enter the Buddha's awakened mind. Tibetan Buddhists believe there is a seed of enlightenment in each person's mind that can be uncovered by visualizing and contemplating a mandala. The complex symbols and exquisite combination of primary colors are considered a pure expression of the principles of wisdom and compassion that underlie Tantric Buddhist philosophy.
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A mandala, or circle, is a representation of the Buddhist universe. These cosmograms represent in symbolic color, line, and geometric forms, all realms of existence and are used in Tantric meditation and initiation rites. |
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The Yamantaka Mandala is a cosmic blueprint of the celestial palace of the deity Yamantaka, Conqueror of Death. Discover the symbolism and meaning of the Yamantaka Mandala. |
Follow the process of the making of a mandala from preparation to creation to preservation |
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Read about Tibet's history and culture, and the monks' 1991 visit to The Minneapolis Institute of Arts |
How did this object come to be a part of the museum collection? Get the technical details about the Mandala's preservation |
Watch the creative process and consecration ceremony in this short video documentary |
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Origins of Buddhism
Yamantaka Mandala
The Mandala
