A Lesson in Impermanence – Monks spend 4 days creating incredible sand art, then destroy it

Buddhism and Impermanence: Everything is Impermanent

This is one of Buddhism’s fundamental and essential teachings. It’s one of the 3 Universal Truths. Everything is Impermanent: Buddhists believe that all things, both physical and mental, are subject to constant change and flux. This includes not only material objects but also thoughts, feelings, and even our sense of self.

This concept was expertly demonstrated when a group of Tibetan monks visited Clark College in Vancouver, Washington and over 4 days, created a beautiful, incredibly detailed sand mandala called the “Buddha of Compassion” only to, in the end, destroy it.

The act of creating and later sweeping up the mandala serves as a profound spiritual and symbolic practice, reminding people of the impermanence of existence and spreading compassion throughout the region. The distribution of the sand allows those who witnessed the ceremony to carry a piece of its meaning with them.

1. Tibetan Monks Visit: A group of Tibetan monks came to Clark College in Vancouver, Washington. Tibetan monks are known for their spiritual practices and artistic talents, often involving intricate rituals and artwork.
2. Creation of a Sand Mandala: Over four days, these monks engaged in the creation of a sand mandala inside Cannell Library. A mandala is a geometric design, often circular, that holds symbolic and spiritual significance in various cultures. In this case, they were making a “Buddha of Compassion” mandala.
3. Purpose of the Mandala: The “Buddha of Compassion” mandala is believed to have a special purpose. It’s thought to bring compassion to the entire region where it is created. The monks create this mandala meticulously, paying great attention to detail.
4. Symbolism of Sweeping the Mandala: On the final day of the ceremony, the monks perform a significant ritual. They carefully sweep up the entire sand mandala. This act is deeply symbolic and represents the impermanence of existence – it reminds us that nothing in life is permanent, and all things eventually come to an end.
5. Scattering Sand into a River: Some of the sand from the mandala is scattered into a nearby river. This act is a way of returning the mandala’s essence to nature, emphasizing the impermanence and cyclical nature of life.
6. Distribution of Sand: Most of the sand from the mandala is given to people who have witnessed the ceremony. This sand is often distributed as a symbolic gift, allowing those who participated in or observed the event to take a piece of the mandala’s spiritual energy and impermanence with them.