Difference between revisions of "Prayer Flag"
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A [[prayer flag]] is a colorful rectangular cloth, often found strung along mountain ridges and peaks high in the [[Himalayas]]. They are used to bless the surrounding countryside and for other purposes. [[Prayer flags]] are believed to have originated with [[Bon]], which predated [[Buddhism]] in [[Tibet]]. In [[Bon]], {{Wiki|shamanistic}} [[Bonpo]] used primary-colored plain flags in [[healing]] {{Wiki|ceremonies}} in [[Nepal]]. They are unknown in other branches of [[Buddhism]]. [[Traditional]] [[prayer flags]] include woodblock-printed text and images. | A [[prayer flag]] is a colorful rectangular cloth, often found strung along mountain ridges and peaks high in the [[Himalayas]]. They are used to bless the surrounding countryside and for other purposes. [[Prayer flags]] are believed to have originated with [[Bon]], which predated [[Buddhism]] in [[Tibet]]. In [[Bon]], {{Wiki|shamanistic}} [[Bonpo]] used primary-colored plain flags in [[healing]] {{Wiki|ceremonies}} in [[Nepal]]. They are unknown in other branches of [[Buddhism]]. [[Traditional]] [[prayer flags]] include woodblock-printed text and images. | ||
| − | [[Traditionally]], [[prayer flags]] come in sets of five, one in each of five colors. The five colors represent the [[elements]] of the [[earth]]d are arranged from left to right in specific order: blue, white, red, green, and then yellow. Different [[elements]] are associated with different colors for specific [[traditions]] and purposes. | + | [[Traditionally]], [[prayer flags]] come in sets of five, one in each of [[five colors]]. The [[five colors]] represent the [[elements]] of the [[earth]]d are arranged from left to right in specific order: blue, white, [[red]], [[green]], and then [[yellow]]. Different [[elements]] are associated with different colors for specific [[traditions]] and purposes. |
[[File:DSC 2360.JPG|thumb|250px|]] | [[File:DSC 2360.JPG|thumb|250px|]] | ||
blue symbolises sky/space | blue symbolises sky/space | ||
white symbolises air/wind | white symbolises air/wind | ||
| − | red symbolises [[fire]] | + | [[red]] symbolises [[fire]] |
| − | green symbolises [[water]] | + | [[green]] symbolises [[water]] |
| − | yellow symbolises [[earth]]. | + | [[yellow]] symbolises [[earth]]. |
History | History | ||
| − | The [[Indian]] [[Sutras]], originally written on cloth banners, were transmitted to other regions of the [[world]] as [[prayer flags]]. Legend ascribes the origin of the [[prayer flag]] to the [[Shakyamuni Buddha]], whose [[prayers]] were written on battle flags used by the [[devas]] against their adversaries, the [[asuras]]. The legend may have given the [[Indian]] [[bhikku]] a [[reason]] for carrying the [[heavenly]] [[banner]] as a way of signifying his commitment to [[ahimsa]]. This [[knowledge]] was carried into [[Tibet]] by 800 CE, and the actual flags were introduced no later than 1040 CE, where they were further modified. The [[Indian]] [[monk]] [[Atisha]] (980 – 1054 CE) introduced the [[Indian]] practice of [[printing]] on cloth [[prayer flags]] to [[Tibet]] and [[Nepal]]. | + | The [[Indian]] [[Sutras]], originally written on cloth banners, were transmitted to other regions of the [[world]] as [[prayer flags]]. Legend ascribes the origin of the [[prayer flag]] to the [[Shakyamuni Buddha]], whose [[prayers]] were written on {{Wiki|battle}} flags used by the [[devas]] against their adversaries, the [[asuras]]. The legend may have given the [[Indian]] [[bhikku]] a [[reason]] for carrying the [[heavenly]] [[banner]] as a way of signifying his commitment to [[ahimsa]]. This [[knowledge]] was carried into [[Tibet]] by 800 CE, and the actual flags were introduced no later than 1040 CE, where they were further modified. The [[Indian]] [[monk]] [[Atisha]] (980 – 1054 CE) introduced the [[Indian]] practice of [[printing]] on cloth [[prayer flags]] to [[Tibet]] and [[Nepal]]. |
During the {{Wiki|Cultural Revolution}}, [[prayer flags]] were discouraged but not entirely eliminated. Many [[traditional]] designs may have been lost. Currently, different styles of [[prayer flags]] can be seen all across the [[Tibetan]] region. | During the {{Wiki|Cultural Revolution}}, [[prayer flags]] were discouraged but not entirely eliminated. Many [[traditional]] designs may have been lost. Currently, different styles of [[prayer flags]] can be seen all across the [[Tibetan]] region. | ||
[[Lung ta]] / Darchor styles | [[Lung ta]] / Darchor styles | ||
[[File:623px-Lungta.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | [[File:623px-Lungta.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | ||
| − | There are two kinds of [[prayer flags]]: horizontal ones, called [[Lung ta]] (Wylie: rlung-rta, meaning "[[Wind Horse]]") in [[Tibetan]], and vertical ones, called Darchor (Wylie: dar-lcog, meaning "flagstaff"). | + | There are two kinds of [[prayer flags]]: horizontal ones, called [[Lung ta]] ([[Wylie]]: [[rlung-rta]], meaning "[[Wind Horse]]") in [[Tibetan]], and vertical ones, called Darchor ([[Wylie]]: dar-lcog, meaning "flagstaff"). |
[[Lung ta]] (horizontal) [[prayer flags]] are of square or rectangular shape, and are connected along their top edges to a long string or thread. They are commonly hung on a diagonal line from high to low between two [[objects]] (e.g., a rock and the top of a pole) in high places such as the tops of [[temples]], [[monasteries]], [[stupas]], and mountain passes. | [[Lung ta]] (horizontal) [[prayer flags]] are of square or rectangular shape, and are connected along their top edges to a long string or thread. They are commonly hung on a diagonal line from high to low between two [[objects]] (e.g., a rock and the top of a pole) in high places such as the tops of [[temples]], [[monasteries]], [[stupas]], and mountain passes. | ||
| − | Darchor (vertical) [[prayer flags]] are usually large single rectangles [[attached]] to poles along their vertical edge. Darchor are commonly planted in the ground, mountains, {{Wiki|cairns}}, and on rooftops, and are iconographically and [[symbolically]] related to the [[Dhvaja]]. | + | Darchor (vertical) [[prayer flags]] are usually large single rectangles [[attached]] to poles along their vertical edge. Darchor are commonly planted in the ground, [[mountains]], {{Wiki|cairns}}, and on rooftops, and are iconographically and [[symbolically]] related to the [[Dhvaja]]. |
{{Wiki|Color}} and order | {{Wiki|Color}} and order | ||
| − | [[Traditionally]], [[prayer flags]] come in sets of five: one in each of five colors. The five colors are arranged from left to right in a specific order: blue, white, red, green, and yellow. The five colors represent the [[elements]] and the [[Five Pure Lights]]. Different [[elements]] are associated with different colors for specific [[traditions]], purposes and [[sadhana]]. Blue [[symbolizes]] the sky and [[space]], white [[symbolizes]] the [[air]] and [[wind]], red [[symbolizes]] [[fire]], green [[symbolizes]] [[water]], and yellow [[symbolizes]] [[earth]]. According to [[Traditional Tibetan medicine]], health and [[harmony]] are produced through the [[balance]] of the [[five elements]]. | + | [[Traditionally]], [[prayer flags]] come in sets of five: one in each of [[five colors]]. The [[five colors]] are arranged from left to right in a specific order: blue, white, [[red]], [[green]], and [[yellow]]. The [[five colors]] represent the [[elements]] and the [[Five Pure Lights]]. Different [[elements]] are associated with different colors for specific [[traditions]], purposes and [[sadhana]]. Blue [[symbolizes]] the sky and [[space]], white [[symbolizes]] the [[air]] and [[wind]], [[red]] [[symbolizes]] [[fire]], [[green]] [[symbolizes]] [[water]], and [[yellow]] [[symbolizes]] [[earth]]. According to [[Traditional Tibetan medicine]], [[health]] and [[harmony]] are produced through the [[balance]] of the [[five elements]]. |
[[File:DSC 2321.JPG|thumb|250px|]] | [[File:DSC 2321.JPG|thumb|250px|]] | ||
[[Symbols]] and [[prayers]] | [[Symbols]] and [[prayers]] | ||
| − | The center of a [[prayer flag]] [[traditionally]] {{Wiki|features}} a [[Lung ta]] (powerful or strong [[horse]]) bearing three flaming [[jewels]] (specifically [[ratna]]) on its back. The Ta is a [[symbol]] of speed and the [[transformation]] of bad [[fortune]] to good [[fortune]]. The three flaming [[jewels]] [[symbolize]] the [[Buddha]], the [[Dharma]] ([[Buddhist teachings]]), and the [[Sangha]] ([[Buddhist]] {{Wiki|community}}): the three cornerstones of [[Tibetan]] [[philosophical]] [[tradition]]. | + | The center of a [[prayer flag]] [[traditionally]] {{Wiki|features}} a [[Lung ta]] (powerful or strong [[horse]]) bearing three flaming [[jewels]] (specifically [[ratna]]) on its back. The Ta is a [[symbol]] of {{Wiki|speed}} and the [[transformation]] of bad [[fortune]] to good [[fortune]]. The three flaming [[jewels]] [[symbolize]] the [[Buddha]], the [[Dharma]] ([[Buddhist teachings]]), and the [[Sangha]] ([[Buddhist]] {{Wiki|community}}): the three cornerstones of [[Tibetan]] [[philosophical]] [[tradition]]. |
Surrounding the [[Lung ta]] are various versions of approximately 400 [[traditional]] [[mantras]], each dedicated to a particular [[deity]]. These writings include [[mantras]] from three of the great [[Buddhist]] [[Bodhisattvas]]: [[Padmasambhava]] ([[Guru Rinpoche]]), [[Avalokiteśvara]] ([[Chenrezig]], the [[bodhisattva]] of [[compassion]], and the {{Wiki|patron}} of the {{Wiki|Tibetan people}}), and [[Manjusri]]. | Surrounding the [[Lung ta]] are various versions of approximately 400 [[traditional]] [[mantras]], each dedicated to a particular [[deity]]. These writings include [[mantras]] from three of the great [[Buddhist]] [[Bodhisattvas]]: [[Padmasambhava]] ([[Guru Rinpoche]]), [[Avalokiteśvara]] ([[Chenrezig]], the [[bodhisattva]] of [[compassion]], and the {{Wiki|patron}} of the {{Wiki|Tibetan people}}), and [[Manjusri]]. | ||
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[[Symbolism]] and [[tradition]] | [[Symbolism]] and [[tradition]] | ||
[[File:DSC 2434.JPG|thumb|250px|]] | [[File:DSC 2434.JPG|thumb|250px|]] | ||
| − | [[Traditionally]], [[prayer flags]] are used to promote [[peace]], [[compassion]], strength, and [[wisdom]]. The flags do not carry [[prayers]] to [[gods]], which is a common misconception; rather, the [[Tibetans]] believe the [[prayers]] and [[mantras]] will be blown by the [[wind]] to spread the [[good will]] and [[compassion]] into all pervading [[space]]. Therefore, [[prayer flags]] are [[thought]] to bring [[benefit]] to all. | + | [[Traditionally]], [[prayer flags]] are used to promote [[peace]], [[compassion]], strength, and [[wisdom]]. The flags do not carry [[prayers]] to [[gods]], which is a common {{Wiki|misconception}}; rather, the [[Tibetans]] believe the [[prayers]] and [[mantras]] will be blown by the [[wind]] to spread the [[good will]] and [[compassion]] into all pervading [[space]]. Therefore, [[prayer flags]] are [[thought]] to bring [[benefit]] to all. |
| − | By hanging flags in high places the [[Lung ta]] will carry the [[blessings]] depicted on the flags to all [[beings]]. As [[wind]] passes over the surface of the flags, which are sensitive to the slightest {{Wiki|movement}} of the [[wind]], the [[air]] is [[purified]] and [[sanctified]] by the [[mantras]]. | + | By hanging flags in high places the [[Lung ta]] will carry the [[blessings]] depicted on the flags to all [[beings]]. As [[wind]] passes over the surface of the flags, which are [[sensitive]] to the slightest {{Wiki|movement}} of the [[wind]], the [[air]] is [[purified]] and [[sanctified]] by the [[mantras]]. |
The [[prayers]] of a [[flag]] become a [[permanent]] part of the [[universe]] as the images fade from exposure to the [[elements]]. Just as [[life]] moves on and is replaced by new [[life]], [[Tibetans]] renew their [[Wikipedia:Hope|hopes]] for the [[world]] by continually mounting new flags alongside the old. This act [[symbolizes]] a welcoming of life's changes and an [[acknowledgment]] that all [[beings]] are part of a greater ongoing cycle. | The [[prayers]] of a [[flag]] become a [[permanent]] part of the [[universe]] as the images fade from exposure to the [[elements]]. Just as [[life]] moves on and is replaced by new [[life]], [[Tibetans]] renew their [[Wikipedia:Hope|hopes]] for the [[world]] by continually mounting new flags alongside the old. This act [[symbolizes]] a welcoming of life's changes and an [[acknowledgment]] that all [[beings]] are part of a greater ongoing cycle. | ||
| Line 52: | Line 52: | ||
Old [[prayer flags]] are replaced with new ones annually on the [[Tibetan New Year]]. | Old [[prayer flags]] are replaced with new ones annually on the [[Tibetan New Year]]. | ||
| − | The fluttering [[prayer flags]] can often be found along with piles of mani stones on rooftops, mountain passes, [[river]] crossings, and other [[sacred]] places. [[Prayer flags]] are actually colorful cotton cloth squares in white, blue, yellow, green, and red. Woodblocks are used to decorate the [[prayer flags]] with images, [[mantras]], and [[prayers]]. Usually at the center of a [[prayer flag]], there is an image of the [[Wind Horse]] which bears the [[Three Jewels]] of [[Buddhism]]. On the four corners of the [[flag]], are images of [[Garuda]], [[Dragon]], {{Wiki|Tiger}}, and [[Snow Lion]] which are the four [[sacred]] [[Animals]] representing the [[four virtues]] of [[Wisdom]], [[Power]], [[confidence]], and [[fearless]] [[Joy]] respectively. Sometimes [[auspicious]] [[Buddhist symbols]] can be found on the edges. In the blank spaces between the images, [[prayers]] and [[mantras]] are printed. | + | The fluttering [[prayer flags]] can often be found along with piles of [[mani stones]] on rooftops, mountain passes, [[river]] crossings, and other [[sacred]] places. [[Prayer flags]] are actually colorful cotton cloth squares in white, blue, [[yellow]], [[green]], and [[red]]. Woodblocks are used to decorate the [[prayer flags]] with images, [[mantras]], and [[prayers]]. Usually at the center of a [[prayer flag]], there is an image of the [[Wind Horse]] which bears the [[Three Jewels]] of [[Buddhism]]. On the four corners of the [[flag]], are images of [[Garuda]], [[Dragon]], {{Wiki|Tiger}}, and [[Snow Lion]] which are the four [[sacred]] [[Animals]] representing the [[four virtues]] of [[Wisdom]], [[Power]], [[confidence]], and [[fearless]] [[Joy]] respectively. Sometimes [[auspicious]] [[Buddhist symbols]] can be found on the edges. In the blank spaces between the images, [[prayers]] and [[mantras]] are printed. |
There are two kinds of [[prayer flags]], the horizontal ones called [[Lungta]] in [[Tibetan]] and the vertical ones called Darchor. Horizontal [[prayer flags]] are squares connected at the top edges with a long thread. The less used vertical [[prayer flags]] are usually single squares or groups of squares sewn on poles which are planted in the ground or on rooftops. [[Tibetans]] believe the [[prayers]] and [[mantras]] will be blown heavenward as [[offerings]] to their [[deities]] and will bring benefits to the one who hangs them, his neighborhood, and all [[Sentient beings]], even flying birds. However, if the flags are hung on the wrong [[astrological]] dates, they will bring only negative results. And the longer it hangs, the greater the {{Wiki|obstacles}} which will arise. Old [[prayer flags]] are replaced with new ones annually on [[Tibetan New Year]]. | There are two kinds of [[prayer flags]], the horizontal ones called [[Lungta]] in [[Tibetan]] and the vertical ones called Darchor. Horizontal [[prayer flags]] are squares connected at the top edges with a long thread. The less used vertical [[prayer flags]] are usually single squares or groups of squares sewn on poles which are planted in the ground or on rooftops. [[Tibetans]] believe the [[prayers]] and [[mantras]] will be blown heavenward as [[offerings]] to their [[deities]] and will bring benefits to the one who hangs them, his neighborhood, and all [[Sentient beings]], even flying birds. However, if the flags are hung on the wrong [[astrological]] dates, they will bring only negative results. And the longer it hangs, the greater the {{Wiki|obstacles}} which will arise. Old [[prayer flags]] are replaced with new ones annually on [[Tibetan New Year]]. | ||
</poem> | </poem> | ||
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{{R}} | {{R}} | ||
[http://www.travelchinaguide.com/cityguides/tibet/prayer-wheel.htm www.travelchinaguide.com] | [http://www.travelchinaguide.com/cityguides/tibet/prayer-wheel.htm www.travelchinaguide.com] | ||
[[Category:Buddhist Terms]] | [[Category:Buddhist Terms]] | ||
[[Category:Prayer Flags]] | [[Category:Prayer Flags]] | ||
Latest revision as of 14:07, 18 September 2023
A prayer flag is a colorful rectangular cloth, often found strung along mountain ridges and peaks high in the Himalayas. They are used to bless the surrounding countryside and for other purposes. Prayer flags are believed to have originated with Bon, which predated Buddhism in Tibet. In Bon, shamanistic Bonpo used primary-colored plain flags in healing ceremonies in Nepal. They are unknown in other branches of Buddhism. Traditional prayer flags include woodblock-printed text and images.
Traditionally, prayer flags come in sets of five, one in each of five colors. The five colors represent the elements of the earthd are arranged from left to right in specific order: blue, white, red, green, and then yellow. Different elements are associated with different colors for specific traditions and purposes.
blue symbolises sky/space
white symbolises air/wind
red symbolises fire
green symbolises water
yellow symbolises earth.
History
The Indian Sutras, originally written on cloth banners, were transmitted to other regions of the world as prayer flags. Legend ascribes the origin of the prayer flag to the Shakyamuni Buddha, whose prayers were written on battle flags used by the devas against their adversaries, the asuras. The legend may have given the Indian bhikku a reason for carrying the heavenly banner as a way of signifying his commitment to ahimsa. This knowledge was carried into Tibet by 800 CE, and the actual flags were introduced no later than 1040 CE, where they were further modified. The Indian monk Atisha (980 – 1054 CE) introduced the Indian practice of printing on cloth prayer flags to Tibet and Nepal.
During the Cultural Revolution, prayer flags were discouraged but not entirely eliminated. Many traditional designs may have been lost. Currently, different styles of prayer flags can be seen all across the Tibetan region.
Lung ta / Darchor styles
There are two kinds of prayer flags: horizontal ones, called Lung ta (Wylie: rlung-rta, meaning "Wind Horse") in Tibetan, and vertical ones, called Darchor (Wylie: dar-lcog, meaning "flagstaff").
Lung ta (horizontal) prayer flags are of square or rectangular shape, and are connected along their top edges to a long string or thread. They are commonly hung on a diagonal line from high to low between two objects (e.g., a rock and the top of a pole) in high places such as the tops of temples, monasteries, stupas, and mountain passes.
Darchor (vertical) prayer flags are usually large single rectangles attached to poles along their vertical edge. Darchor are commonly planted in the ground, mountains, cairns, and on rooftops, and are iconographically and symbolically related to the Dhvaja.
Color and order
Traditionally, prayer flags come in sets of five: one in each of five colors. The five colors are arranged from left to right in a specific order: blue, white, red, green, and yellow. The five colors represent the elements and the Five Pure Lights. Different elements are associated with different colors for specific traditions, purposes and sadhana. Blue symbolizes the sky and space, white symbolizes the air and wind, red symbolizes fire, green symbolizes water, and yellow symbolizes earth. According to Traditional Tibetan medicine, health and harmony are produced through the balance of the five elements.
Symbols and prayers
The center of a prayer flag traditionally features a Lung ta (powerful or strong horse) bearing three flaming jewels (specifically ratna) on its back. The Ta is a symbol of speed and the transformation of bad fortune to good fortune. The three flaming jewels symbolize the Buddha, the Dharma (Buddhist teachings), and the Sangha (Buddhist community): the three cornerstones of Tibetan philosophical tradition.
Surrounding the Lung ta are various versions of approximately 400 traditional mantras, each dedicated to a particular deity. These writings include mantras from three of the great Buddhist Bodhisattvas: Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche), Avalokiteśvara (Chenrezig, the bodhisattva of compassion, and the patron of the Tibetan people), and Manjusri.
In addition to mantras, prayers for a long life of good fortune are often included for the person who mounts the flags.
Images or the names of four powerful animals, also known as the Four Dignities, adorn each corner of a flag: the dragon, the garuda, the tiger, and the snowlion.
Symbolism and tradition
Traditionally, prayer flags are used to promote peace, compassion, strength, and wisdom. The flags do not carry prayers to gods, which is a common misconception; rather, the Tibetans believe the prayers and mantras will be blown by the wind to spread the good will and compassion into all pervading space. Therefore, prayer flags are thought to bring benefit to all.
By hanging flags in high places the Lung ta will carry the blessings depicted on the flags to all beings. As wind passes over the surface of the flags, which are sensitive to the slightest movement of the wind, the air is purified and sanctified by the mantras.
The prayers of a flag become a permanent part of the universe as the images fade from exposure to the elements. Just as life moves on and is replaced by new life, Tibetans renew their hopes for the world by continually mounting new flags alongside the old. This act symbolizes a welcoming of life's changes and an acknowledgment that all beings are part of a greater ongoing cycle.
Because the symbols and mantras on prayer flags are sacred, they should be treated with respect. They should not be placed on the ground or used on clothing. Old prayer flags should be burned.
Timing of hanging and taking down
Some believe that if the flags are hung on inauspicious astrological dates, they may bring negative results for as long as they are flying. The best time to put up new prayer flags is in the morning on sunny, windy days.
Old prayer flags are replaced with new ones annually on the Tibetan New Year.
The fluttering prayer flags can often be found along with piles of mani stones on rooftops, mountain passes, river crossings, and other sacred places. Prayer flags are actually colorful cotton cloth squares in white, blue, yellow, green, and red. Woodblocks are used to decorate the prayer flags with images, mantras, and prayers. Usually at the center of a prayer flag, there is an image of the Wind Horse which bears the Three Jewels of Buddhism. On the four corners of the flag, are images of Garuda, Dragon, Tiger, and Snow Lion which are the four sacred Animals representing the four virtues of Wisdom, Power, confidence, and fearless Joy respectively. Sometimes auspicious Buddhist symbols can be found on the edges. In the blank spaces between the images, prayers and mantras are printed.
There are two kinds of prayer flags, the horizontal ones called Lungta in Tibetan and the vertical ones called Darchor. Horizontal prayer flags are squares connected at the top edges with a long thread. The less used vertical prayer flags are usually single squares or groups of squares sewn on poles which are planted in the ground or on rooftops. Tibetans believe the prayers and mantras will be blown heavenward as offerings to their deities and will bring benefits to the one who hangs them, his neighborhood, and all Sentient beings, even flying birds. However, if the flags are hung on the wrong astrological dates, they will bring only negative results. And the longer it hangs, the greater the obstacles which will arise. Old prayer flags are replaced with new ones annually on Tibetan New Year.
