The mandala of Vajrasattva is used for initiation purpose only and belongs to the charya tantra (performance tantra), where the practitioner lays emphasis on both inner and outer activities of purification. Vajrasattva, the Buddha of purification holds in his right hand the vajra (Tib. Dorje), symbolic of spiritual awakening and the method aspect of the path to enlightenment. His left hand holds a bell (Tib. Dril.bu) symbolic of penetrative insight into the ultimate nature of reality and the wisdom aspect. In the mandala Vajrasattva is symbolized by the white seed syllable HUM in the centre of the inner sanctuary.

The three outer rings (fire, vajras, petals) called protection wheels protect the inner palace and the practitioner of this particular tantra. The initiated performs the tantric practice with the collection of mantras to purify deep seeded karmic obstacles, diseases and wrong mental attitudes.

The viewing of the mandala is seen as blessing and protection of one's environment.