For the 2009-2010 Faith & Learning event, the college will host the Mystical Arts of Tibet. The monks will be in residence from October 26-30 to create a sand mandala in the sanctuary of the Julia Thompson Smith Chapel. The design includes ancient spiritual symbols and is created for the purpose of re-consecrating the world and its inhabitants.
Opening Ceremony - October 26, 2009, 10-11 a.m.
Featuring unique polyphonic chanting, Tibetan musical instruments and prayer, the opening ceremony sanctifies the beginning of the mandala construction. The sacred design chosen for Agnes Scott’s mandala will be the Tibetan deity known as Green Tara, a female bodhisattva associated with growth and enlightened activity.
Monks in Residence - October 27-29, 2009, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily
The monks will be in residence from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day to create the sand mandala in the sanctuary of the chapel. Guests are welcome to view the process.
"Symbolism and Significance of the Tara Mandala" Lecture - October 29, 2009, 7-8 p.m.
Dr. Abraham Zablocki, assistant professor of religious studies and co-director of Asian studies.
Closing Ceremony - October 30, 2009, 10-11 a.m.
The dissolution of the sand mandala is a dramatic ceremony that is practiced as a metaphor for the impermanence of life. The sands of the magnificent design created during the week are swept up and placed in an urn. To fulfill the function of healing, half is distributed to the audience at the closing ceremony, while the remainder is carried to a nearby body of water, where it is deposited. The waters then carry the healing blessing to the ocean, and from there it spreads throughout the world for planetary healing.
This event is free and open to the public. Tickets are not required.
For More Information:
Call 404 471-5177 or e-mail
mritan@agnesscott.edu.
Also Visit:
Healing the Earth: A Sacred Art by the Tibetan Lamas of Drepung Loseling Monastery
The Mandala Construction Process