mandala

man·da·la  (mnd-l)

n.

Any of various ritualistic geometric designs symbolic of the universe, used in Hinduism and Buddhism as an aid to meditation.

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[Sanskrit maalam, circle.]

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man·dalic (mn-dlk) adj.

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mandala [ˈmændələ mænˈdɑːlə]

n

1. (Non-Christian Religions / Hinduism) (Non-Christian Religions / Buddhism) Hindu and Buddhist art any of various designs symbolizing the universe, usually circular

2. (Psychology) Psychol such a symbol expressing a person's striving for unity of the self

[Sanskrit: circle]

Thesaurus

Noun

1.

mandala - any of various geometric designs (usually circular) symbolizing the universe; used chiefly in Hinduism and Buddhism as an aid to meditation pattern, design, figure - a decorative or artistic work; "the coach had a design on the doors" Hindooism, Hinduism - a body of religious and philosophical beliefs and cultural practices native to India and based on a caste system; it is characterized by a belief in reincarnation, by a belief in a supreme being of many forms and natures, by the view that opposing theories are aspects of one eternal truth, and by a desire for liberation from earthly evils Buddhism - the teaching of Buddha that life is permeated with suffering caused by desire, that suffering ceases when desire ceases, and that enlightenment obtained through right conduct and wisdom and meditation releases one from desire and suffering and rebirth