The Best Time to Use Prayer Flags

Hanging of prayer flags is an old tradition among Tibetan Buddhists. The use of this flags was dated back to pre-Buddhist era. These flags were first used in spiritual healing. They have five colors which represent the five elements of earth - fire, space, earth, water and air. The flags were arranged around a sick patient’s bed to harmonize the elements inside the body. Balancing elements was believed to aid the sick patient physically and emotionally.

In 700CE, Padmasambhava or Guru Rinpoche brought Buddhism to Tibet. He merged the Bon and Buddhism worldview. This merging gives Tibetan Buddhism many Bon-inspired practices. The use of prayer flags were established during this union.

Tibetan Buddhists believed that hanging flags bring happiness, prosperity and good health to people around the world. The symbols, mantras, prayers and sutras strengthen the spiritual vibrations of these flags. The wind carries the spiritual vibrations to the people around the globe. Tibetan Buddhists used prayer flags for various reasons. Here are some of the common uses of prayer flags:

Healing

Just like the Bon priests, Tibetan Buddhists hang prayer flags around the sick bed of family members. They believed that healing mantras, sutras and prayers printed on these flags will help the sick person overcome illness.

Start of new endeavours

These Tibetan flags can also be used during special occasions. Hanging prayer flags symbolize new beginnings. They believed that by doing so, they will receive good fortune and strength to overcome obstacles. The best thing about this practice is that they can also share the good fortune around the world.

Sorrows and Sufferings

Prayer flags are also believed as remedy for people in sorrow and pain. Many Tibetan Buddhists hang prayer flags during funerals, crisis and natural disasters. These flags were believed to bring power in overcoming difficulties.

Generally, there are no specific days or occasions to hang prayer flags, expect on what they call “inauspicious days”. According to Tibetan Astrology, there are two days each month that are not advisable to hang flags. However, the most important thing in hanging these flags is your intention for doing so. You should always aim to share good fortune, good health and wisdom to everyone around you. You can also create your own flags to make it even more personalized.

If you want to learn more about this fascinating Tibetan tradition, read a Tibetan book discussing this topic to enhance your cultural knowledge and philosophical views. Prayer flags are truly amazing.