The word mandala means a circle with a center. In a Buddhist context a mandala is often depicted as a square inscribed within a circle. This graphic represents the Buddhist conception of the cosmos and the cosmic abode of a deity enthroned in their palace, surrounded by members of their retinue. Each quadrant represents a particular element, cardinal direction, and buddha representing a specific enlightened quality.
Whether painted or constructed in three dimensions, mandalas mainly serve as symbolic aids for meditation and visualization in Buddhist tantric practices. A similar concept in Hinduism is a yantra.
Three-dimensional mandalas can also be architectural structures, such as temples or stupas, or embody the assembly of deities within a temple. The instructions for creating and visualizing mandalas are usually found in ritual texts. Mandalas are also used in initiation rituals; used to represent the divine presence within consecrated space; visualized by practitioners as part of deity yoga; and offered to deities as representations of the entire universe.
