What Is the Meaning Behind Tibetan Prayer Flags?
In the pursuit of enlightenment, practitioners of Tibetan Buddhism pray directly to Buddha. They recite mantras, or phrases that are repeated out loud, to purify their thoughts. Prayer flags are tools to improve one's karma, or consciousness, and develop compassion toward all living beings.
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Origins
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Flags were traditionally flown to signal a gathering of nomad tribes, often for military purposes. As the traditions of the Tibetan animist religion, Bon, mixed with Buddhism, the purpose of the flags became religious.
Colors
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Five flags are strung together, each a different color. The five colors represent the elements: blue corresponds to the sky, white the clouds, red to fire, green to water, and yellow to earth.
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Symbols and Mantras
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Though prayer flags may be blank, they are more often printed or painted with symbols, mantras and prayers to Buddha. Passing breezes activate and spread the blessings and purifying powers of the flags over the whole world.
Production
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Traditionally, Tibetan prayer flags are printed with century-old designs using woodblocks, carved by Buddhist monks or lamas (teachers). Today, flags are made by Tibetan refugees in Nepal and India, and by Western screenprinting workshops.
Raising of Flags
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Tibetan prayer flags are raised on auspicious days, as determined by cultural tradition, to mark happy occasions such as weddings.
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