Definition:
A mandala is a symbolic representation of what might be called the spiritual "cosmos." The Sanskrit word "mandala" means "circle" or "section," and mandalas are most often elaborate patterns in a circle. Mandalas are particularly important in Vajrayana Buddhism.
Mandalas often are created with a meditative focus and are expressions of the artist's spiritual understanding. As such, they are representations of both the psychological realm and spiritual realms, or the nature of existence itself. Viewing or visualizing mandalas are another way to work with them in meditation.
