The Medicine Buddha Mandala is a manifestation of the healing energy of all enlightened beings. When positive or joyous feelings and attitudes pass through each organ and circulate through our whole system, our physical and chemical energies are transformed and balanced.  

In the very centre of the mandala is the treasure vase and a book of scripture symbolising the King of Medicine Buddha. Surrounding this are eight petals depicting symbols of the eight medicine Buddhas.

Within the next sixteen petals are symbols of sixteen major Bodhisattvas (eight male and eight female Bodhisattvas). In the outer twenty two circles of petals are symbols of ten mundane gods and twelve Yakshas (nature spirits). At the four gates are four directional guardians. Outside the gates we have the gardens surrounded by a lotus and diamond hard fence.

The Mandala is then dissolved – representing the impermanence of all phenomena – and either taken to a large body of water or distributed to the people attending the ceremony. 

When the blessed sand is taken to water, the monks recite further prayers, offering the blessed sand for world peace and compassion. 

Sickness and poor health are experiences shared by all regardless of ethnicity, gender age or any other markers of identity that can separate one from another. Ancient teachings tell us that merely seeing an image of the Medicine Buddha, reciting his name or seeing the Medicine Buddha Mandala can bring us inconceivable benefits.

The Medicine Buddha has the power to help us see the true cause of any suffering whether spiritual, physical or mental and bestows blessings that enable us to alleviate or overcome these. 

Creating a Medicine Buddha Mandala also generates very positive energy in the whole area spreading through our world system and the universe.

Find out more on the website www.buddhismnz.org