A yantra is meditation device used in Hindu and Tibetan Tantric meditation. From the root 'yam' meaning 'to sustain' the Yantra is a symbolic image used to maintain a focused state during meditation. A yantra is usually composed of an outer geometrical form enclosing an interior geometrical designs. Each particular design is used for a specific purpose or intent.

Yantras can be defined as visual mantras. They have been used since the days of Yajur Veda and Brahminical Text to remove the malefic effects of certain evil forces (Rakshisi) and to strengthen the positive forces (Davik).

Yantras sometimes supplement the power of mantras and are often as strong as the mantras themselves. If a mantra is the invisible driving force, the yantra is often the visible means to gain power, wealth, ward off evil, ward off illnesses, nullify the ill effects of planets, bring you luck in love, enhance your capabilities -- the range is truly vast.

Yantras are sometimes made up of numbers, sometimes of a certain set of symbols, sometimes of mantras. They can be written on paper or bhojpatras (parchment) and worn as a talisman; they can be engraved on an amulet or pendant and worn on the body; they can be painted on a door or wall or the floor, they can be engraved on gold, silver, copper, iron and even painted on leaves, stones and other objects.