Prayer Flags Tibetan

Buy Tibetan Prayer Flags

Lung Ta (horizontal) prayer flags are of square or rectangular shape, and are connected along their top edges to a long string or thread.

Traditionally, prayer flags come in sets of five, one in each of five colours. The five colours represent the elements and the Five Pure Lightsand are arranged from left to right in specific order: blue, white, red, green, and then yellow. Different elements are associated with different colours for specific traditions, purposes and sadhana. Blue symbolizes sky/space, green symbolizes air/wind, red symbolizes fire, white 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 are used to promote peace, compassion, strength, and wisdom. The flags do not carry prayers to gods, 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 ground or used in clothing. Old prayer flags should be burned.