Introduction
to the Mandara Worlds
The
Meaning of the Mandara (also "Mandala")
In Shingon Buddhism the Six Elements
constitute the universe, and these elements have two aspects, or dimensions, which, cannot
be separated. The first five are the material of the universe, and the last one represents
the spiritual side or consciousness. When studying the phenomenal, the Mandara is used
because, symbolically speaking, everything in the universe is contained within the
Mandara. The Mandara is a visual representation of the Five Elements and the activity of
the Three Secrets; and everything finds it's place within it. The theory of the Mandara
teaches that the Universe is really the form of Mahavairocana (Dainichi Nyorai), the One
Reality, and reflects his virtues and powers.
Garbha-dhàtu
Mandara
(Taizo-kai Mandara / Matrix Mandara)
The
Garbhadhatu Mandara / Taizo-kai Mandara/ Matrix Mandara (also "Mandala")
This Mandara represents the enlightened universe from the standpoint of infinite
compassion. It is often referred to as the "Womb Mandara". The metaphor is drawn
from the way a mother enfolds and nurtures a child in her womb, so the energy of
compassion nurtures and protects one's innate enlightenment. The additional metaphor of a
lotus flower is also used, for the lotus seed is the seed of enlightenment in potential
form and is nurtured and encouraged to grow by compassion. It's flowering is skillful
means. This Mandara can be looked upon as that which signifies the gradual growth
spiritually towards Buddhahood.
Vajra-dhàtu Mandara
(Kongo-kai Mandara /
Diamond Mandara)
The
Vajradhatu Mandara / Kongo-kai Mandara / Diamond Mandara (also "Mandala")
This Mandara embodies the Vajra-Wisdom that illuminates the universe. Kongo is the word
used to refer to that which is adamantine, diamond-like; in other words imperishable in
nature. This constitutes the contents of the universe as a unified field of infinitely
discriminating wisdom, and concentrates all beings and forms into one through the combined
five wisdom's. This Mandara reflects the development of wisdom and knowledge within one,
to the refined stage where it eliminates all illusions, passions, and defilement. It
represents the infinite wisdom of Mahavairocana, that lies within each one of us.
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