Definition of Mandala
and Related Terms
This Definition of Mandala page was included (in addition to the mandala meaning page)
for further clarification due to the many schools of thought surrounding the use of mandalas.
This page is a suppliment that deals with defining terms surrounding the mandala. For information on how to use mandalas, click here
Below is a brief definition of mandala, but also many other definitions - primarily of the Hindu ilk. It is the author's belief that by understanding these terms and other cultural uses, we may more clearly understand the nature of the mandala's origins & purpose.
As always, the author has taken great care in obtaining the most accurate information. However, this is merely a brief summation of a very in-depth subject. The author encourages an independent pursuit of knowledge if this is a subject of intense interest.
With that said let's get on with our definition of mandala and other related terms.
Some Other Helpful Definitions:
| Chakra: |
Sanskrit for wheel, the 7 energy centers of the body |
Maha: |
Supreme, great |
| Mandala: |
Literally means circle |
| Mantra: |
Sounds with inherent power – the sound of god or goddess |
| Shri: |
Holy or sacred |
| Vidya: |
Wisdom – particularly of the feminine kind |
| Yantra: |
A visual mantra – a symbol or icon – particulary of a goddess (devi) in geometric
form |
What Are Mahavidyas?
Taking the definitions above in consideration, Mahavidya is literally translated to mean
"supreme wisdom." Mahavidyas are representative of the ten dominant Hindu
goddesses. They are symbols of whole gamut of feminine divinity. Primarily, they are
depicted as extremely powerful goddesses to be reckoned within the Hindu pantheon of
deities.
The ten Mahavidyas are as follows:
- Kali
- Tara
- Tripu Sundari (aka Shri or Shodashi)
- Bhuvaneshvari
- Tripur Bhairavi
- Chinnamasta
- Dhumavati
- Bagalamukhi
- Matangi
- Kamla
What are the Chakra Symbol Mandalas?
These are symbols that represent the seven wheels or energy centers of the body
(spiritual and physical).
Briefly, the chakra symbols are listed here in order:
- Root/Muladhara
- Sacrum/Swadhisthana
- Solar Plexus/Manipura
- Heart/Anahata
- Throat/Visuddha
- Third Eye/Ajna
- Crown/Sahasrara
For more information on chakra symbols,
please click here.
I hope you enjoyed these thoughts on the definition of mandala.
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Mandala Symbolism
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