86
form of Buddha and Bodhisattva, which is expressed in the
carved or painted statues.
B. Samaya Mandala: Samaya means vow. Viewed
broadly, it is all the mechanical tools of the universe for the
common use of living beings. In a broader meaning, it is the
distinct character of every principle. It is also mountain, river,
tree, grass, etc.
In the narrow sense, Samaya Mandala is the symbol used
by Buddha and Bodhisattva such as the lotus, jewels, a branch of
willow tree, the diamond scepter... to represent their respective
vows, or their characteristics in their work for the salvation of
humanity.
C. Dharma Mandala: Broadly
speaking, it is all the sounds, speeches,
images, makes and symbols in the universe.
More specifically, it is the seed syllable or
the Dharani of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas.
The seed-syllable is a letter of the alphabet
that represents the essence of Buddhas and
Bodhisattvas. The seed syllable of
Mahavairocana is “A”- the seed of
Vajrapani is “Hum”. A Dharani is the secret
formula and the titles of Buddhas and
Bodhisattvas; it also represents all the
written text in the Sutra.
D. Karma Mandala: Karma means action towards a goal.
Thus, broadly speaking, it is all the actions of all living things.
Its narrow meaning is all the actions of Buddhas and
Bodhisattvas for the salvation of humanity.