The Diamond Mandala is paired with the Womb Mandala (Taizokai) and together they form the Two Worlds Mandala. The prototypes of these graphic mandalas with a hierarchy of deities were two mandalas introduced to Japan by Kukai in the 9th century. The originals were copied many times and are worshipped in the Esoteric or Shingon sect of Buddhism. The Diamond Mandala represents knowledge that leads to enlightenment; its principal deity is Dainichi.