Tibetan Buddhism, a unique branch of Buddhism, is rich in symbolism, rituals, and philosophical depth. This guide explores the core elements of this tradition, providing insights into its distinctive practices and beliefs.
The Dharma Wheel and Deer
The Dharma Wheel, often depicted with a pair of deer, is a prominent symbol of Tibetan Buddhism. It represents the Buddha’s teachings and the continuous cycle of Buddhist philosophy. The deer commemorate the Buddha’s first sermon in the Deer Park, where two deer are said to have knelt to listen, symbolizing that all beings have Buddha nature. This symbol is often placed above the entrance of the main halls of temples.
The Kalachakra Symbol (Ten Powers)
Created by Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), the Kalachakra symbol, also known as the “Ten Powers,” represents the essence of the three realms, embodying wisdom and compassion. Believers seek its protection from war, epidemics, famine, and natural disasters. It can be found in many forms throughout Tibetan Buddhist culture.
The Importance of Tsongkhapa
The founder of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, he is revered as a second Buddha. His presence alongside Buddha statues signifies his high spiritual status.
Prayer Wheels
Prayer wheels are cylindrical objects containing scriptures. Devotees turn them clockwise while walking around temples. This is believed to be a way of accumulating merit, as each rotation is seen as equivalent to reciting the prayers inside.
Stupas (Chortens) and Mani Stones
Stupas, also known as chortens, symbolize merit and enlightenment. Mani stones are stone slabs or rocks inscribed with mantras or prayers. The belief is that the wind carries the prayers when it blows over these stones, which is another way of accumulating merit.
Prayer Flags
Prayer flags, printed with mantras and prayers, are hung in windy areas like mountaintops, passes, and bridges. The wind’s movement over them is believed to spread the prayers throughout the world, benefiting all.
Prostrations
Prostration, also called “kowtowing,” is a physical practice involving a series of full-body movements. It is a way to demonstrate humility, devotion, and to purify negative karma.
Sang (Incense Offering)
Sang, a purification ritual, is common in Tibetan areas, where incense is burned. Special stoves are found in homes, courtyards and monasteries. “Sang” means “cleansing, eliminating, cutting off, and expelling”, and has become synonymous with offering to deities. The ritual involves burning juniper branches and herbs, and adding roasted barley flour, butter, cheese curds, and sugar while reciting prayers to please the deities.
Temple Decorations and Art
Temples are often meticulously decorated with elaborate, handcrafted paintings that can take years to complete. This artwork is integral to the spiritual environment.
The Eight Auspicious Symbols
The eight auspicious symbols (Ashtamangala) are a set of sacred symbols widely used in Tibetan Buddhism. They are often depicted in artwork, textiles, and ritual objects, and each has a unique meaning to bring good fortune and prosperity.
Guardian Animals
At the base of Buddha’s lotus throne are often seen two mythical green-haired beasts who are said to be protectors of the faith.
The Six-Syllable Mantra
The mantra “Om Mani Padme Hum” is deeply revered, and is considered the fundamental mantra of the Lotus family of Bodhisattvas, particularly Avalokiteśvara. Continuous chanting of this mantra is believed to bring blessings and purify negative actions.
The Swastika Symbol
The swastika, an ancient symbol, represents the Dharma’s power and the eternal movement of the universe in Buddhism. It’s considered a very important symbol, not specific to any one sect of Buddhism. Often, it is inlaid into the ground with colored stones.
The Practice of Debate
Buddhist philosophy is explored through debates, known as “tse-dré” , where monks discuss and examine scriptures. This method encourages critical thinking. These debates are often very animated with exaggerated gestures.
Ritual Instruments
Various ritual instruments are used in ceremonies, including white conch shells, representing enlightenment and the spreading of the Dharma.
Mandalas
Mandalas are symbolic representations of the cosmos. These can be two dimensional (as in a thangka) or three dimensional (made of sand). They illustrate the Buddhist understanding of the universe, with the idea that macrocosm and microcosm mirror each other.
Jowo Buddha Statue
The Jowo Shakyamuni Buddha statue, brought to Lhasa by Princess Wencheng, is considered to be a life-size replica of the Buddha when he was twelve years old. It is believed to have been blessed by the Buddha himself, making it the most revered Buddha image in Tibetan Buddhism. Seeing the Jowo Buddha is considered equivalent to seeing the Buddha himself.
Rock Paintings
Images and symbols from Buddhism can be found not only in monasteries but also on rocks and cliffs, which can be considered embodiments of the Buddha, providing accessibility for lay practitioners to connect with the faith at any time.
The Wheel of Life (Six Realms of Rebirth)
The Wheel of Life illustrates the concept of reincarnation and the cycle of suffering, driven by the three poisons: greed, anger, and ignorance. The wheel depicts the six realms of existence, the different causes of suffering, and the path to enlightenment.
Funeral Rites
When highly realized lamas pass away, they may be entombed in stupas. These “spirit towers” are considered the highest form of funerary practice. Based on the importance of the deceased, the stupa can be adorned with gold or silver, with gold being reserved for the highest lamas.
The Four Harmonious Friends
The story of the Four Harmonious Friends is a popular narrative in Tibetan Buddhism. It illustrates how cooperation and harmony lead to a fruitful outcome. The story tells of a bird, a rabbit, a monkey and an elephant, working together to grow a tree and share its fruits, highlighting the importance of unity and kindness in the community.
Unveiling of Thangkas
During special occasions like the Shoton Festival, monasteries display large thangkas (painted or embroidered banners) of Buddha or other deities. These are traditionally displayed on hillsides so that the community can see them. The unveiling is a grand event attracting a large number of people.
The Victory Banner
The victory banner is an important symbol which represents the Buddha’s triumph over the four demons: the demon of emotional disturbance, the demon of cognitive distortion, the demon of death, and the demon of lust and desire. These demons are born from one’s own ego and attachments. The banner is a cylindrical shape on top of a pole with an umbrella like decoration at the top, often made with colorful silks.
Dharma Assemblies
Dharma assemblies are gatherings focused on teachings, prayer, and rituals. These may include annual festivals or events for specific causes, like the dedication of a new temple, the installation of a sacred statue, or ceremonies for the passing of notable figures.
Through these rich symbols, practices, and philosophies, Tibetan Buddhism offers a unique spiritual path for those seeking enlightenment and inner peace.
If you’d like to learn more, consider exploring resources on the specific topics mentioned here, such as the Kalachakra symbol, the meaning of the Six Syllable Mantra, or the practices of debate in Tibetan Buddhism, or creating articles to further explore and link to these topics.
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