Good Things Happening
Four Tibetan monks shared part of their culture with Cincinnatians this week as they constructed a sand mandala in the atrium of the Main Library, downtown
A mandala is a circular design with images that symbolize the wholeness of Buddhism.
Gangkar Rinpoche, in charge of the group, said the mandala is a sign of world peace.
The monks started constructing the mandala Wednesday. Rinpoche said it will be dismantled during a ceremony of chanting and ritual music at 3 p.m. Saturday. The sand used to construct the mandala will be distributed to the audience. Remaining sand will be carried to the Ohio River for disposal.
“Creating the sand mandala creates positive energy,” said Tenzin Dhargye, one of the monks. “The sand mandala is a symbol of inner growth of a spiritual love and compassion.”
The Tibetan monks are from the Dzindu Monastery at Mundgod Tibetan Settlement, South India.
They are in the process of concluding a one-year tour of the United States and Canada.
As the Monks worked on the mandala this week, many people gathered to watch.
Dhargye said the monks will provide an opportunity for the public to learn about the ancient Tibetan tradition.
“We will share our experience on cultivating love, compassion and peace by means of Buddhist rituals and meditations,” Dhargye said.
Rinpoche will give a lecture on Tibetan Buddhism at 7:30 p.m. today at the Maitri Center, 4120 Hamilton Ave., Northside. For more information, call 708-1676.
