Mandala: meaning and use of this spiritual symbol

 Mandala: meaning and use of this spiritual symbol

Tom Cross

In a tattoo, on a keychain, or in a print, you may have seen a mandala, characterized by a circle adorned with geometric shapes inside, which follow a harmonious and colorful pattern.

But many people don't know the spiritual and mystical meaning of this sign, which is related to Buddhism and Hinduism, mainly. If you want to delve deeper into this subject, unveil the energies that the mandala carries next.

What is the mandala?

In a simplified way, we can say that a mandala is a circle decorated with geometric patterns, which can have one or more colors, but, looking more closely, it is a circle enclosed in a square, or a square enclosed in a circle.

Also, the figure is divided into equal and regular parts, based on multiples of four. For this reason, some people feel that the mandala is moving from the inside to the outside, or from the outside to the inside.

Origin of the mandala

Even if this figure seems like a simple design that could be reproduced at any time, anywhere in the world, the origin of the mandala shows us that it has always been associated with spirituality.

The first representations of this complex and patterned geometric shape appeared as early as the 8th century in India. Eventually, China and Japan adopted the symbol, and it spread all over the world.

In Tibet, mandalas were prominent in Buddhist temples, because aided in meditation and concentration Even there, the mandala is called "Khyil-khor", which means "center of the Universe, in which resides the Divine and Enlightened Being".

Later, the figures became frequent in Hinduism and Taoism. In the American continent, mandalas were used in religious rituals that promoted physical and spiritual healing. Between the 16th and 18th centuries, it was also possible to find the figures in Catholic churches, decorating the place.

Today, mandalas are not always related to some belief. In schools, these figures help students develop concentration and motor skills when they color them.

However, there are still symbolic ways of using the mandala that are reproduced all over the world. Many people place this symbol on the front door of their home to attract protection, for example. Find out more about this through the meaning of the mandala in the next topics.

Alesia Kozik / Pexels

What does mandala mean?

Understanding the meaning of "mandala" - the word itself - is the first step to understanding what this figure can symbolize. In an even suggestive way, "mandala", which is a Sanskrit term, means "circle". In a more spiritual sense, mandala means healing. Understand the reason for this, below.

Symbolism of the mandala

The main symbolism of the mandala is that life works according to cycles, and everything is connected; therefore, a person's existence never ends. But it is also interpreted as a meditation tool, especially in Buddhism, which uses it to broaden concentration.

However, the mandala's symbolism goes beyond this, according to the belief with which it is associated. In Christianity, for example, this figure is an ornament for the stained glass windows in churches. Therefore, the mandala does not present the idea of cycles, healing, or protection, it is just something that brings more beauty and color to the environment.

See_also: Moon in Taurus - Understand its influence on you!

On the other hand, in Hinduism the mandala is a balance representation So the symbol can indicate a person's purpose or commitment to a full and meaningful existence.

Similarly, Taoism holds that the balance shown by the mandala is the one we need to have in life, so that our energies flow through our body properly, without causing excesses or shortages.

In other cultures, the symbolism of the mandala is in the colors it presents. Thus, a red mandala brings courage and energy; a blue one promotes calm and tranquility; a green one stimulates hope; a yellow one increases concentration; and so on.

Based on this meaning, the mandala can be understood as a center of energies, capable of healing the mind and body of a person who is overcome by negativity. That is why it is so common to use the symbol as a way to protect oneself against bad vibrations. But how to do this? What is the correct way to use the mandala?

How to use the mandala?

So far, you have discovered that mandalas are important symbols for many religions, and you have understood that they can be used by you too, to transform your well-being.

Swati H. Das / Unsplash

This is because, besides connecting you with your spirituality, mandalas act on your state of mind Among the benefits of this figure, you may experience more motivation, lightness, concentration, ease of meditation, reduced tension, inner balance, love, and joy.

To take advantage of these benefits, you can use the mandala on a keychain that is always with you, an accessory, or a decorative item in the place where you stay the longest. The ideal is to research information about the mandala to be acquired, to understand how exactly it will act in your mind.

Another possibility is to draw mandalas and paint them, with the colors that stand out to your eyes. Take the painting process seriously, enjoying each step with concentration. If you prefer, choose colors that stimulate focus, such as yellow and orange.

If you want to use the mandala specifically for meditation, just include one in the space where you usually practice this activity. When you start the meditation, direct your gaze to the figure, paying attention to the shapes it has and the way they relate to each other. This will make it easier to enter into the meditation process.

You may also like

  • Understand how a lunar mandala works
  • Surprise yourself with the benefits of Buddhism
  • Increase your protection with a baguette

Finally, you can enjoy the powers of the mandala to protect your home In this case, place the figure on your front door, ensuring that all negativity stays out of your home.

See_also: How to light incense? Tips to harness the energy!

Based on the information we have presented, you could understand that the mandala is a figure that brings balance, harmony, and healing. Through different patterns and varied colors, it will raise your positive energies and drive away the bad vibrations that could affect you.

Tom Cross

Tom Cross is a writer, blogger, and entrepreneur who has dedicated his life to exploring the world and discovering the secrets of self-knowledge. With years of experience traveling to every corner of the globe, Tom has developed a deep appreciation for the incredible diversity of human experience, culture, and spirituality.In his blog, Blog I Without Borders, Tom shares his insights and discoveries about the most fundamental questions of life, including how to find purpose and meaning, how to cultivate inner peace and happiness, and how to live a life that is truly fulfilling.Whether he's writing about his experiences in remote villages in Africa, meditating in ancient Buddhist temples in Asia, or exploring cutting-edge scientific research on the mind and body, Tom's writing is always engaging, informative, and thought-provoking.With a passion for helping others find their own path to self-knowledge, Tom's blog is a must-read for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of themselves, their place in the world, and the possibilities that await them.