The mandala (tib. Kyilokor) is a geometrical design
used for the aid of visualization during meditations. There are a wide variety of
mandalas ranging from those that represent the history of time, to those that offer
tantric designs for the aid of visualizations. Having a circle as the main theme,
the mandala incorporates many shapes and colors each with specific significance for the
practitioner's advancement along the path towards nirvana.
Manjushri (tib. Jambelyang) is the bodhisattva of
wisdom, one of the three pillars of attaining enlightenment. Portrayed as a young
man golden in color, his most distinctive feature is the flaming sword that he holds up in
his right hand, which he uses to cut through ignorance and the obstacles in the way of
reaching nirvana. Over his left shoulder upon a lotus blossom rests the
prajnaparamita, the scripture of perfected wisdom.
This piece shows Manjushri in the center of his
mandala with his sword raised above his right shoulder. This mandala serves both the
purpose of a visualization aid for the practionner, and the abode of Manjushri. This
painting shows perfect wisdom in geometrical design and anthropomorphic form together,
framed by the beautiful dragons that protect it.
|
