The mandala serves as a two-dimensional map that guides the meditator's visualization of a fully realized three-dimensional place and, at the same time, as a place that the meditator mentally explores. The meditator visualizes, in three dimensions, each and every element of the mandala. Moving toward the center of the mandala, there is a circle, a ring of flames, which burns away spiritual obstacles. After a small second circle, the third innermost circle consists of lotus flower petals that unfold spiritual vision. The meditator approaches the four-walled palace where the deities live after crossing these moatlike outer circles.