Traditional Thangka "Path of Meditation"

This contemporary hand-painted thangka shows the path of meditation as taught in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition.

Details:

• Painting size: 46 x 61 cm
• Brocade frame: 81 (92) x 128 cm
• Brocade colors: Yellow, orange and blue

The painting is of very high quality. As with all of the thangkas available from Atelier Tibet, this is a one-of-a-kind piece that has been painstakingly handcrafted and is only offered once in its details and colors.

These thangkas are hand-painted on canvas by the most experienced artists in Nepal according to the strict iconographic rules of the Tibetan style using traditional colors. They captivate with their intense colors, intricate details and deep spiritual symbolism. The brocade frame is vegan and woven with classic patterns. The thangka is covered with an orange silk veil for protection and decoration.

Motif description:

This thangka shows the path of meditation as taught in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. It illustrates the path to meditative tranquillity (shamatha). At the bottom right, a monk begins his path. A black elephant and a black monkey walk in front of him. The elephant symbolizes the mind, which at the beginning is characterized by darkness and ignorance, while the monkey stands for distraction, a flood of thoughts and restlessness.

The path winds its way up the mountain in serpentines. At first, the monkey drives the elephant uncontrollably ahead of him, but with every step forward, monkey and elephant become calmer and brighter. Flames keep appearing along the way, symbolizing the effort and energy required to gather the spirit. Halfway along the path, the monk is already leading the elephant and the monkey is only walking along. The elephant becomes increasingly white and calm. At the top, the elephant is completely white and radiates clarity and calm, the monkey disappears and the monk rides the elephant effortlessly.

At the very top of the picture, the monk sits in meditation in a cave, showing a state of deep meditative contemplation. Above, he floats into the sky on the elephant, a symbol of supreme mastery of the mind.

The image describes nine stages of meditative concentration: from the initial effortful placement of the mind, through increasing stability and calm, to complete one-pointedness without effort. It is a visual guide for practitioners to recognize obstacles, progress and the essence of meditative development.