Translation guide
A central mandala in Esoteric Buddhism representing the cosmic womb of enlightenment, associated with the Dainichi Nyorai (Mahāvairocana).
Referring to the specific mandala used in Shingon and Tendai Buddhism, depicting the Womb Realm (Garbhakośadhātu).
The standard Japanese term for the Womb Realm Mandala, used in religious and academic contexts.
胎蔵界曼荼羅は密教の中心的な教えを表しています。
The Womb Realm Mandala represents the central teachings of Esoteric Buddhism.
A shorter variant, common in spoken or less formal contexts.
このお寺には有名な胎蔵曼荼羅があります。
This temple has a famous Womb Realm Mandala.
When distinguishing between the two primary mandalas of Esoteric Buddhism.
Refers to the pair of mandalas: the Womb Realm (胎蔵界) and the Diamond Realm (金剛界). Use this when mentioning both together.
両界曼荼羅は胎蔵界と金剛界から成ります。
The Two-Realm Mandala consists of the Womb Realm and the Diamond Realm.
When discussing the mandala as a physical artwork or cultural artifact.
Specifically denotes a painted or drawn version of the mandala, often used in art history.
この胎蔵界曼荼羅図は国宝に指定されています。
This painting of the Womb Realm Mandala is designated a National Treasure.
In everyday conversation, simply saying 曼荼羅 (mandala) may suffice if the context is clear. Specify 胎蔵界 only when distinction from other mandalas is needed.
Do not translate 'Womb Realm' literally as 子宮界 or similar; it is a fixed Buddhist term.
The Diamond Realm Mandala, often mentioned alongside the Womb Realm. Useful for contrast.
胎蔵界曼荼羅と金剛界曼荼羅は対をなしています。
The Womb Realm Mandala and the Diamond Realm Mandala form a pair.