Toh 2585A Ritual for Drawing the Lines of a Maṇḍala according to the “Endowed with Secrecy” Tradition Sādhana
Pāli / Sanskrit:sgrub thabs gsang ba dang ldan pa'i thig gi cho ga
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Exposition of the Scripture: A Ritual for Drawing the Lines of a Mandala according to the “Endowed with Secrecy” Tradition
Context
This text belongs to the Northern Tibetan Buddhist tradition and is preserved in the Tengyur, a collection of doctrinal treatises expounding the Dharma. Toh number 2585 is a specialized study of practice rituals in the Tibetan Tantric tradition, specifically the “Endowed with Secrecy” lineage (Gsang ba dang ldan pa).
A mandala, or “sacred circle,” is a central symbol of Tantric practice. It is not merely a geometric drawing, but a manifestation of absolute space, where the deities (yi dam) of the Dharmakāya abide. Drawing a mandala requires precise calculation, complete sacredness, and adherence to an ancient tradition. This text provides detailed instructions on this process, from spiritual preparation to the drawing of each exact linear stroke.
Main Content
This scripture describes the “ritual for drawing the lines” (thig gi cho ga) of a mandala according to the “Endowed with Secrecy” sādhana tradition. Sādhana, or “means of accomplishment,” is a set of Tantric practice steps, including visualization, concentration, and vipassana (yathābhūta-dassana).
The process of drawing the mandala begins with establishing a spiritual foundation through preparatory rituals. The practitioner must purify the physical and mental space, invoke divine protectors, and ward off obstacles. Then the “lines” (thig) are drawn according to precise mathematical proportions, forming squares, circles, and other geometric symbols. Each line and each shape bears transcendent meaning and corresponds to parts of the spiritual body.
The “secrecy” (gsang ba) in this tradition is not only related to keeping the ritual hidden, but also points to the concealed nature of ultimate reality: the yogi discovers that the outer physical mandala is not different from the inner mental mandala, both being objects of consciousness.
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