Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Tibetan People and Prayer Wheel
There are two types of prayer wheels inTibet, the bigger one is called Manitong (bucket-shaped prayer wheel), and the smaller one is called Manilun (wheel-shaped prayer utensil). Manitongs are made of wood (painted red usually) or copper, and are often placedin rows with a height of 1-2 meterunder the eaves or along the corridors of monasteries.The Six Syllable Truthis engraved or written on the surface of the cylinder of Manitongs. There is a wooden frame over the bucket and bearings are installed on the top and bottom sides, so the bucket can start rotation just by a slight push. The bucket is hollow, with sutras inside. The times of rotation of the bucket symbolize the times of reciting the Buddhism Incantation by the believers. However, the bucket should be turned clockwise.
¶ 10:42 AM 
On offer is this vintage, Tibetan metal and wood prayer wheel. It dates to the early to mid 20th century. Sacred sutras are contained within the cylander and it is believed that spinning it is a form of praying, or meditation. This one is larger than most.
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