Description
A prayer wheel (Sanskrit: Khorten) is a cylindrical wheel that rotates on a vertical axis. It is usually made of metal, wood, or leather. They come in all shapes and sizes. A prayer or mantra is always inscribed on the outside of the cylinder. According to Tibetan Buddhism, spinning a prayer wheel has the same effect as reciting the prayers or mantras. The wheel must be turned clockwise; otherwise, the inscription is read backward. When someone begins spinning, they must recite the inscription. It must be recited again when the wheel is finished. During this time, the wheel may be turned as often and as quickly as desired. A common inscription is the mantra: Om mani padme hum. The most common version of a prayer wheel is a standing cylinder. Usually, several are placed in a row and can be turned by a passerby. There are also variations, such as a small, portable version with a handle. A small, portable version on a rope. This one spins automatically. Prayer wheels that are powered automatically, for example by water, sun, wind, or electricity. Digital prayer wheels.
A huge geed mill and ceremony in Bhutan.
