Kalachakra is a Sanskrit word that means “time wheel”. It refers to one of the most complex philosophies and meditation practices within tantric Buddhism called Anuttara Yoga tantra that is practiced by all schools of Tibetan Buddhism. The concept of the wheel of time is a metaphor to describe the process of transformation from ordinary and material existence to complete enlightenment.
The structure of the Kalachakra Mandala is the projection of a beautiful palace with 5 main distinct levels. Every detail of the mandala, from each deity to every decoration of the building, refers to the time and the universe (Outer Kalachakra), or physical and mental aspects (Inner Kalachakra).
The Kalachakra mandala represents the wheel of our lives, and the time we have in in this world to make peace with ourselves.
This beautiful artwork also symbolizes both individual and universal peace and meditating in front of it helps to restore physical and mental balance.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama himself give lectures during the Tibetan Buddhist Kalachakra empowerment ritual explaining the importance of this mandala and the many symbols that are represented in it. Read more in the article
