Prayer Wheels

The prayer wheel is one of the best-known objects of Tibetan Buddhism and at the same time one of the most often misunderstood. It is not a decorative souvenir but an instrument of practice that has been used daily for centuries. Inside is a paper scroll on which a mantra is written thousands of times, usually Om Mani Padme Hum, the mantra of compassion. Each turn counts as one recitation of this mantra.

Hand prayer wheels in brass and copper are made by Tibetan artisans in the Himalayas who have mastered this technique for generations. The outside is often engraved with mantras, lotus flowers or the Eight Auspicious Symbols. Because each engraving is done by hand, no two prayer wheels are alike. Weight and balance are decisive: a good prayer wheel turns naturally in the hand, without effort.

Besides the hand prayer wheel, there are table prayer wheels for the altar and wall prayer wheels for the entrance of the home. What they all share is the intention to set a mantra in motion, quietly and steadily, even when the mind is busy with other things. At tibet-markets.ch we carry prayer wheels in various sizes and designs. We have held every wheel we offer in our own hands.