In Jainism, “Rishi Maṇḍala” (Ṛṣi‑maṇḍala / Ṛṣi‑maṇḍala‑stava) usually refers to a special stotra (hymn) and associated maṇḍala‑vidhi used for worship of the 24 Tirthankars, who are here addressed as Ṛṣis (Rishis).

Main points in simple words

1. What it is

- It is a Sanskrit stava (hymn of praise), often called Ṛṣimaṇḍala‑stava. - Along with the recitation, there is sometimes a maṇḍala (a specific diagram / yantra‑like drawing) and a nyāsa‑type procedure (assigning the names of Tirthankars to different parts of the body by touch and mantra).

1. Who are the “Rishis” here?

- In this context, “Rishi” = the 24 Jinas / Tirthankars. - So “Rishi Maṇḍala” is basically a spiritual circle / maṇḍala of the 24 Tirthankars invoked through a stotra and diagram.

1. Purpose and use

- Traditionally it is considered a gupta (somewhat esoteric) vidhi, not for casual use. - The aim is: - Removal of obstacles (vighna‑nivr̥tti) - Protection on the spiritual path - Strengthening shraddhā (faith) and bhakti towards the Tirthankars. - It is not a compulsory daily worship for all Jains; it is a specialized practice followed in some lineages.

1. Digambar / Shvetambar view

- Both accept the basic idea that: - the 24 Tirthankars are supreme spiritual teachers, and - special stavans and maṇḍalas may be composed in their praise. - Details of the text, tune, and ritual method can vary by gaccha, sampradāya, or sangha, rather than being a sharp “Digambar vs. Shvetambar” doctrinal difference. - There is no change in core Jain doctrine; it remains entirely centered on Jina‑bhakti and right faith (samyak‑darshan).

1. Spiritual essence

- Rishi Maṇḍala reminds us that: - The Tirthankars are perfect “seers” (Ṛṣis) who have destroyed all karmas. - By remembering them with deep reverence and pure intention, the soul moves towards: - inner purity (śuddhi) - fearlessness - and ultimately moksha‑mārg (path to liberation).

If you ever come across someone performing Rishi Maṇḍala, you can understand it simply as: a traditional Jain stotra‑based worship that forms a “circle” of the 24 Tirthankars around the devotee for spiritual protection and upliftment.