Mandala of the Buddhas Embodying the Capacities of the Victorious Ushnisha (Sonshō mandala)

最勝曼荼羅

In this cosmic diagram used in meditation, nine main deities are represented within a luminous white disk suspended like a full moon against a dark background. The large lunar disk contains within it nine smaller orbs, centered by the embodiment of universal truth, Dainichi Nyorai (Mahavairocana). He makes a hand gesture signifying wisdom and wears images of the five wisdom Buddhas in his crown. Dainichi is seated on a lotus platform supported by seven lion-dogs (protectors of Buddhism). In their mouth they hold vajras, which symbolize the indestructible nature of the Buddhist law. Dainichi is scaled slightly larger than the surrounding deities to indicate his greater importance.

At the lower left, Fudo Myoo is shown within a white triangle, another symbol of wisdom. He holds a sword in his right hand, ready to cut through delusions, and in his left is the lasso with which he reigns in those who would block the path to enlightenment. Gozanze Myoo, with three faces and eight hands trampling two figures, is shown at the lower right within a crescent moon. Mandalas of this type are used to pray for a number of benefits, including good health, increased productivity, and the reduction of sins.