Prayer Flags

Prayer flags are small square flags that are printed with lucky symbols and prayers. For years Tibetan Buddhist have hung these flags around there homes and around temples to bring them good luck. Hanging the prayer flags outside lets them blow in the wind and its thought that the wind will carry the flags prayers mantras and good luck across the land. Prayer flags bring happiness, long life and prosperity to who hang the flags and those around them. 

There are two types of prayer flags, horizontal and vertical. The images on the prayer flag differ from flag to flag. Some common images are Buddha, Tara, animals, lotus flowers or the eight auspicious symbols. 

Prayer flags are made on colored cloth squares and stamped with large wooden stamps. These wooden stamps are made by skilled carvers, monks or lamas. The colored cloth squares come in five different colors for the five elements. 

Prayer flags should be kept off the ground. After the prayer flags have been hung for a long time the color of the cloth and the printed stamp will fade. But, when the prayer flag begins to fray a lot the flags are often burned. Then new prayer flags are put up. 

Here a photo of me in my favorite temple in Shang ri-la. I love the prayer flags. i just think they are so bright and beautiful.