Prayer wheels are cylindrical devices containing Buddhist mantras. They are turned or spun by Buddhists as a form of prayer. The most common is the mantra Om Mani Padme Hum, said to contain all the teachings of the Buddha. While the prayer wheel originated in Tibet, its use has now spread throughout much of the world.

History

Around 2,000 years ago, the Buddhist master Nagarjuna invented the prayer wheel, inspired by the thought that spinning the Buddha's words had the same effect as speaking them. The prayer wheels were quickly embraced by the Tibetan people, and their use spread through India and Nepal.

Features

Prayer wheels, known as Mani wheels in Tibet, are wooden cylinders that are often covered with ornate metals such as silver or copper. The prayers, or mantras, are written on small pieces of paper and placed inside the wheel in such a way that the mantra is spun in the same direction as if one were reading it.

Function

Spinning a prayer wheel is believed to have the same spiritual effect as reading the prayer aloud. The words of the prayers are written repeatedly in a Tibetan script, so the prayer is "said" many times in a single spin. For the blind and illiterate, this provides a way to pray without reading, enabling them to keep their faith by spinning the words of Buddha.

Types

Prayer wheels come in different sizes, from small hand-held models to the large drums found in Buddhist monasteries. The wheels are always spun clockwise, in the same direction the prayer would be read.

Benefits

Buddhists believe that spinning the prayer wheel spreads spiritual blessings. The wheels contain the words of the Buddha, profound and compassionate teachings that inspire and promote well being.

Source:

Nyingma Centers: Prayer Wheels

Prayer Wheels: Tibetan Spiritual Technology