Buddhist-Meditation-Systematic-and-Practical

samapatti).
The five elements: In their treatment, we may see a
continuous evolution from the Japanese Tantra. There,
considered only on the mental side, they are symbolized
very simply in the pagoda-form; here, they are built into
the exact and complex structure of the mandala, and
their material aspect is included. They constitute the
Buddhas' surroundings in the Pure Land and are very
exactly arranged: This differs again from the Amitayur
Samapatti Sutra where such complete descriptions are
not given. When one visualizes these different parts of
the mandala, their meanings must be kept in mind.
The wall of vajras: This represents one's strict
observance of the sila, and its purpose is to keep out
demons and prevent them from disturbing the precious
land within. If the moral precepts are maintained pure
and unbroken, then this vajra-wall will be strong and
will effectively protect against demons. Without pure
morality, the vajra-wall will be weak.
The lotus-wall and the skull-wall: These symbolize
respectively renunciation and sunyata.
Under the crossed-vajra, a thousand-petalled lotus
symbolizes the lotus world, and is also a symbol of
renunciation in the Hinayana. Why? The lotus grows up
fair and pure from foul-smelling mud, unstained by the
muck and filth. Similarly, renunciation must be pure and
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