Tibetan Mandalas

Numerous digital models of the mandala describe it structurally and elucidate this complex form of Tantric practice in understandable terms.

Every one of these Tibetan mandalas is rich in spiritual meaning, and the accompanying quotations and sayings will deepen your knowledge of this very special culture. Contemplate the Wheel of Becoming, a symbol of rebirth usually found in monasteries, or a transcendent Adibuddha Vajrasattva, a representation of penetrating absoluteness and the embodiment of the limitless. Other mandalas include the Eight Symbols of Happiness, the four-armed Manjushri (for wisdom), Sacrificial Offerings, and the national flag of Tibet. Each consists of a periphery and a center, which stand for the beginning and end of all being, and as meditators color them in, they will foster a deeper understanding of the universe and the inner landscape of the human soul.

This visually stunning catalogue presents c. 300 iconographical materials and texts from the Tibetan collections of the Royal Library and the National Museum of Denmark. Most of the entries describe such iconographical materials as mandalas, elemental divination paintings, ritual "tsakli" cards and prayer flags. Unique handwritten meditation manuals, a Mongolian Book of the Dead, illuminated manuscripts as well as philosophical and medical works are also featured. These remarkable materials, which represent rare and unique forms of communication between man and nature in written and iconographical forms, play a central role in the performance of Buddhist and shamanistic rituals. In line with other volumes in the COMDC series, this catalogue is intended as a reference tool for scholars. It also supplements the Catalogue of Tibetan Manuscripts and Xylographs, COMDC 6.1 & 6.2. The catalogue includes over 250 colour illustrations.

Now back in print comes this stunning visual introduction to the artistic and spiritual heart of Tibetan Buddhism--the Kalachakra Sand Mandala. "Spiritual vision communicated by art and ritual."--"Tricycle." 36 color photos. 199 b&w photos.

Tibetan Mandalas, Arts and Traditions pays homage to the rich history and culture of the Himalayan region, in particular that of Tibet and the Bon tradition, bringing their heritage into conversation with a modern, global society. Written by leading experts in the field, including Samten Karmay and Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche, this book delves into Tibet's past and its present, looking at how its traditions may interact with the future, exploring the place of meditation and yoga in modern medicine, and considering the role of rituals into today's world. All proceeds from this book go to the TISE Himalayan International School (THIS), based in Siliguri, India.

According to Tibetan Buddhism the mandala is a representation of the microcosm and macrocosm. The Kalachakra mandala the special subject of this study is especially important to Tibet's present Dalai Lama. This book presents in pictures and text the traditions, techniques and artistry that go into completing the mandala and a considered evaluation of its spiritual significance. Meticulously rendered photographs show the various stages in creation of the mandala and its power as a spiritual symbol and work of art.

The Collected Works of Chögyam Trungpa brings together in eight volumes the writings of one of the first and most influential and inspirational Tibetan teachers to present Buddhism in the West. Organized by theme, the collection includes full-length books as well as articles, seminar transcripts, poems, plays, and interviews, many of which have never before been available in book form. From memoirs of his escape from Chinese-occupied Tibet to insightful discussions of psychology, mind, and meditation; from original verse and calligraphy to the esoteric lore of tantric Buddhism—the impressive range of Trungpa's vision, talents, and teachings is showcased in this landmark series. Volume Six contains advanced teachings on the nature of mind and tantric experiences. Chögyam Trungpa's commentary on the Tibetan Book of the Dead explains what this classic text teaches about human psychology. Transcending Madness presents a unique view of the Tibetan concept of bardo. Orderly Chaos explains the inner meaning of the mandala. Secret Beyond Thought presents teachings on the five chakras and the four karmas. Glimpses of Space consists of two seminars: "The Feminine Principle" and "Evam." In the article "Femininity," the author presents a playful look at the role of feminine energy in Buddhist teachings. "The Bardo," based on teachings given in England in the 1960s, has not been available in published form for many years.

Detailed illustrations of 132 mandalas including descriptive and historical notes. Sources: Kriya tantras (19); Carya tantras (2); Yoga tantras (20); Anuttara (Yogi) tantras (19); Anuttara (Yoginī) tantras (37); Advaya tantras (19); The Āmnāta cycle (14); and Paryavasāna-Kalyāṇa (2) making a total of 132 mandalas.