A Taima Mandala is a painting describing the Pure Land of Amida Buddha. The original was commissioned in the 8th century, and many copies and re-envisionings were made. The one that features in this documentary was made in the 17th century and is approx 44″ x 35″ (111cm x 90cm).
The mandala featured here has four sections, the Pure Land itself, the story of the origins of the mandala, the contemplation for attaining the Pure Land, and the nine groups of people who aspire to the Pure Land. All of these are thoroughly described in the video.
The documentary is indeed very well made, well paced and interesting, and gives us a broad picture of the teachings about Amida and the Pure Land, which are one of the most followed Buddhist teachings in Japan today.
Unfortunately, for a mandala as beautiful as this, they have chosen to upload it in the lowest possible quality (360p), which rather impairs appreciation. I am sure the makers have a higher quality production, and they would do well to upload it for the benefit of those who could appreciate it.
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to see an album of screenshots click here