Photo and Fusing Glass Mandala by Maryam Mermey

Exploring Yin and Yang Through a Fusing Glass Mandala

 

According to Chinese philosophy, yin is the feminine or receptive principle and yang is the masculine or expressive principle. As human beings we all have both principles and require a balance of yin and yang to give our intentions and ultimately, our purpose, the best chance of fulfillment. According to Sanscrit, the ancient language of India, mandala means Sacred Circle. In other words, the Divine is the center of the circle and the Divine is the circumference of the circle. In the center of the mandala above, the yin or receptive principle is represented by the figure leaning against the left side of the Tree of Life listening for Divine Guidance. The head is bowed in a gesture of turning inward. The yang or expressive principle is represented by the figure leaning against the right side of the Tree of Life expressing Divine Guidance. The head, the body, and the legs are pointing outwards in a gesture of manifestation. In the circumference of the circle, the transluscent triangle on the left and the transluscent rectangle on the right suggest the presence of mystery in both the act of listening and the act of responding. The blue shape towards the top of the tree symbolizes the heart of the Tree of Life, which unites both yin and yang. The firing process brings out the luminosity of all the pieces reflecting the alchemical process which is available to all human beings.