Tibetan Prayer Flags: Mantras, Sutras and Prayers

Aside from symbols and images, prayer flags also contain mantras, sutras and prayers. These texts were replica of an Indian script – Sanskrit.

Tibetan Buddhists hang the prayer flags with intention of spreading blessings. Tibetans believed that the mantras, sutras and prayers on their flags are carried by the wind to bring happiness, good health and good fortune to their neighbours as well as the people around them. Tibetans observed that these flags uplift the energy on their environment which bring them happiness and compassion.

Prayer flags are made of cloth with images and texts that are usually printed by using woodblocks. Many famous Buddhist masters created most of prayer flag designs. These flags have five colors that represent five basic elements. The flags should be arranged according to colors, starting from blue from left to right. The images and writings on these flags have different meanings and provide different benefits to mankind.

Texts on Prayer Flags

Mantras, sutras and prayers help to strengthen the spiritual vibrations of Tibetan flags. It is best to understand what these texts mean and the benefits they can bring to people.

Mantras

Mantras on Tibetan flags are almost always written on Sanskrit. Sanskrit is the ancient language and writings of Hinduism and Buddhism. Mantras are syllable or series of syllables that has powerful effect when recited repeatedly, either out loud or silently. Many Buddhists school used mantras as form of meditation. There are several mantras printed on prayer flags. The most common and possibly the oldest mantra is the six-syllable mantra of Avalokiteshvar, which believed to bring compassion, wisdom and good qualities to help other people.

Mantras are also excellent techniques in healing process. There are mantras for healing diseases. The most common healing mantras are the Seven Chakra Healing Lotus that also embedded on many prayer flags.

Sutras

Sutras have long, medium and short versions. Sutras are texts derived from Shakyamuni Buddha discourse. Shakyamuni is a historical Buddha who taught in India 2500 years ago. Most sutras provide success, when recited continuously, in overcoming obstacles. Medium and short versions of sutras are normally printed on Tibetan flags.

Prayers

Some other texts on prayer flags can be categorized under “prayers.” These prayers, aspirations and well wishes were written by different masters throughout the history of Mahayana Buddhism. One example of prayer on Tibetan flag is the prayer of Medicine Buddha (Sangye Menla). The prayer of Medicine Buddha helps anyone to overcome deceases and maintain good health.

Prayer flags have many designs and every design has unique characteristic and meaning. If you want to enhance your knowledge about this Tibetan tradition, which is also a very fascinating subject, you can find reference book on online Tibetan bookstores.