2024
The term “mandala” comes from the ancient Indian language of Sanskrit, which means “circle.”
As psychoanalyst, CG Jung, wrote: “I sketched every morning in a notebook a small circular drawing, a mandala, which seemed to correspond to my inner situation at the time… Only gradually did I discover what the mandala really is: … the Self, the wholeness of the personality, which if all goes well, is harmonious.”
One of the creative Medical Mission Sisters in South India, Sister Theramma Prayikalam, likes to draw mandalas, as shared opposite - with an explanation of each mandala given by her, as follows:
Seed of Faith
The star represents all of us. It was our parents and family members who instilled the first seed of faith in us and protected it. This simple faith has, undoubtedly, grown ever since. Shaped by new ideas and perspectives, symbolised by the eyes, it has come from many different sources, including religion, close relationships, social interactions and our culture. We have kept this light burning through our involvement in various activities. The footprints around the circle remind us that we are never alone and that we will find companions, friends and supporters along the way. They will give us the strength and courage to move forward with joy.
Courage and Determination
The whale and Durga (major Hindu goddess) are symbols of courage and determination and they are drawn here to help us stay strong and keep going. The fish’s mouth represents a boat, symbolising hope and salvation. This is a sign of triumph over negative influences, leading to a sense of joy and fulfilment. There is nothing that can stop a woman from achieving her goals and fulfilling her life’s purpose. This is what in Malayalam, we call ‘manakaruth’ - the inner strength or the power within.
Nine Pots: Growing in Wisdom and Spirituality to Achieve a Full Life
As we grow older, we also grow in wisdom and spirituality through learning and experience. This mandala symbolises wisdom and learning through the nine pots. Each pot can be a representation of all the different experiences we have had in life. These experiences might have come from our parents and family, from the learning and experiences of others, through our contacts and relationships, through seminars, meetings and discussions, as well as what we have gained from reading and studying. Mary, full of love for her baby, Jesus, in the centre, is a symbol of the purest wisdom and most genuine spirituality.
We will show you more of Sister Theramma’s drawings of mandalas in a future post.