Kalachakra Mandala

Kalachakra Mandala

Kalachakra is a Sanskrit word that means “Wheel of Time”. The concept of the wheel of time is a metaphor to describe the process of transformation from ordinary and material existence to enlightenment.

Kalachakra tradition contains teachings on cosmology, theology, philosophy, sociology, soteriology, myth, prophecy, medicine, and yoga. It depicts a mythic reality whereby cosmic and socio-historical events correspond to processes in the bodies of individuals. These teachings are meant to lead to a transformation of one's body and mind into perfect Buddhahood through various yogic methods.

The symbolism of the Kalachakra Mandala is rich. It is a two-dimensional depiction of the three-dimensional palace of the deity Kalachakra. At the top of the palace, or the center of the mandala dwells the god himself. Arrayed around the halls of the five-story palace beneath his feet are 722 other deities, all submitting to the great god Kalachakra who symbolizes the unstoppable passage of time.

The floors of the palace depicted in the Kalachakra Mandala, from the ground up, represent:

1. Enlightened Body
2. Enlightened Speech
3. Enlightened Mind
4. Enlightened Wisdom
5. Enlightened Great Bliss

Arrayed around the palace are four elemental rings and two outer rings. From the inside out they are:

1. Earth
2. Water
3. Fire
4. Wind
5. Space
6. Wisdom

Taken together, all of these elements compose a microcosm of the universe, ruled by time personified.