Other talks from Padmaloka
A very interesting introduction to the mandala here from Garava - the idea, the myth, the image, the symbol, the experience. His own practice as an artist affords him a respectful and generous perspective, from which we are able to simply sit back and learn.
Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2001
1. | Entering the Mandala; embarking on an inner journey; letting go of the past; preparation for the journey (4:27) | |
2. | Defining a mandala; mandala as a depiction of a perfected universe, a vision of enlightenment and transformation (4:14) | |
3. | Sanskrit etymology of the word mandala; humans as mandalas; the mundane versus the enlightened center of the mandala (5:14) | |
4. | Beginning the journey and entering sacred space; shrine room as example of sacred space and mandala, safe and secure (5:02) | |
5. | The first barrier - the wall of flames; the necessity of faith; transformative flame, purifying and purging ignorance (6:50) | |
6. | The second barrier - the wall of vajras; the necessity of determination for enlightenment; trials of the spirit (6:31) | |
7. | The eight great cremation grounds; confronting and seeking out death; casting off ego; the necessity of resolve (7:45) | |
8. | Choosing release or rebirth - seizing the chance for liberation; transformation through experience of death (5:51) | |
9. | The last barrier - the wall of lotuses; the center of the mandala; the blossoming lotus of the enlightened mind (3:43) |
Total running time: 49:37