Tibetan Prayer Flags

According to Tibetan tradition, prayer flags imprinted with sacred images and mantras transmit healing and compassionate energy into the world through the power of the wind. Prayer flags empowered by mantras affect natural, elemental forces on a subtle level, beyond ordinary human perception. As they fly in the wind, the flags exert a protective, balancing influence on the environment and generate a flow of positive conditions for all sentient beings.

Empowerments, Colors and Symbols of Prayer Flags

Each Nyingma flag has been specially designed and empowered by Tarthang Tulku. Symbolic images and colors represent the Buddha families and their qualities. Each image and color relate meaningfully to the whole.

• The vajra and the color white represent the transcendent quality of diamond clarity.

• The wheel of knowledge and the color blue exemplify awakened mind. 

• The jewel and the color yellow embody qualities of equanimity and generosity.

• The sword and color green stand for meaningful action.

Prayer Flag Production

Prayer flags have been made and flown in Tibet since early in the history of Dharma transmission. The Tibetan Aid Project continues this ancient tradition by creating prayer flags, flown at our organizations and sold to support TAP’s mission. They can be purchased by contacting tap@tibetanaidproject.org. 

Handling and Hanging Prayer Flags

Because of the sacred nature of prayer flags, they should be treated with special care and respect. Do not let flags touch the ground or use them as articles of clothing.

Auspicious days to hang prayer flags:

• The tenth day following a new moon

• The first day of a full moon

• The tenth day of the lunar month

• The twenty-fifth day of the lunar month

Flags should be flown from a 12-foot pole or from atop a building with the “tongues” in line with the horizon. In normal wind conditions a flag lasts two to three years. Flags beyond repair are buried or burned.