Our Mandala is based on the foundation of two philosophies:

The Prajna philosophy, that form is emptiness, emptiness is form. Sensory, thought, habitual energy and consciousness are all emptiness. The nature of emptiness is the Non-Dual nature, which is the Buddha nature.

The Avatamsaka philosophy, that Dharmadhatu of Phenomena (Lý  事)is Dharmadhatu of Principle (Sự 理), and vice versa. Both are complete and unobstructed, the manifestation of Non-Duality. The phenomenon of realm is represented by Five-Elements: Earth, Water, Fire, Wind and Space.

According to the Prajna and Avatamsaka Sutras, even within the grip of the Five-Aggregates and the Five-Elements, we can still develop the transcendental Prajna wisdom, not waiting until these Five-Aggregates and Five-Elements are destroyed for the Prajna can manifests. No, while the Five-Aggregates are still here, the Prajna Mind manifests without obstacles.

How do we represent these philosophies in the Mandala?

We use squares to symbolize the Five-Aggregates and the Five-Elements. The five concentric squares, one within the others expresses the endless intertwining of the Five-Aggregates and The Five-Elements.

We use the circle to symbolize Emptiness, the Buddha Nature. This circle enclosing the five squares signifies that the Buddha Nature is all encompassing over the dualistic universe of the Five-Aggregates and the Five-Elements.

One smaller circle, placed inside the 5 squares, symbolizes the manifestation of the Prajna Wisdom within the grip of the Five-Aggregates and the Five-Elements. Where there is the Prajna mind there is liberation, so this small circle is also the symbolizing the liberation from the Five Aggregates.

How do we help liberating the spirits of the deceased? By bringing the spirits’ plaques into the five squares then into the small circle inside, symbolizing, bringing the spirits through the world of duality to the realm of Non-Dual liberation. During which, we recite mantras, visualize in stillness so that the transcendental process can carry out smoothly.

How do we transcend the Five-Elements as Emptiness? By bringing the objects representing the Five-Elements from the five squares out through the circle of Non-Duality. These objects are offerings (Earth- food, Water- water, Fire- lamp, Wind- flower or tea leaves, Space- incense). 

Conclusion. With the power of the concentration mind, with respect and love, with mantra recitation, with patience, with the altruistic power of the Bodhisattva and Buddhas, the Mandala will become a great tool that help liberating the spirits.