Prayer wheels have been an integral part of Buddhist culture since ancient times. They were erected in great numbers across Tibet and Mongolia, Nepal, Buryatia, Tuva, and Kalmykia—wherever Buddhism spread widely. Placed inside monasteries, near stupas and temples, and in frequently visited places, they allow those who rotate them to accumulate spiritual merit and purify themselves of defilements and negative karma accumulated in this and previous lives. Regardless of its size—large or small, bronze or wooden, wind-powered or hand-held—a prayer wheel can benefit anyone, irrespective of their faith, by sensing its benevolent purpose...
The origin of the khurde is linked to a Buddhist legend. Long ago, before the advent of Buddha Shakyamuni, the Teaching of the Tathagata Dipankara flourished on Earth. Once, the King of the Nagas—beings of the water element—came to him and asked for a prayer for the well-being of all beings. In response, Buddha Dipankara bestowed upon him a special drum filled with scrolls of sacred mantras. The Nagas reverently preserved this Khurde given by the Tathagata. By rotating it with deep faith, they attained great spiritual perfection.
Benefits of Rotating the Khurde
Buddhist texts state that merely rotating a prayer wheel with pure intentions is equivalent to reciting aloud the millions of mantras contained within it. The prayer wheel brings peace and tranquility to people's hearts, and their faith harmonizes the surrounding world, subduing obstructive and harmful spirits.
Symbolism of Khadaks (Ceremonial Scarves)
- White Khadak: A symbol of primordial purity and pure intentions. White holds special sacredness for the Buryats, representing holiness and prosperity.
- Blue Khadak: Represents the Eternal Blue Sky for Mongols and Buryats. It is offered to Buddhas and deities, symbolizing harmony, agreement, and tranquility. It embodies kindness, loyalty, infinity, and goodwill. This color also symbolizes the masculine principle.
- Yellow Khadak: A symbol of fertility, abundance, constancy, warmth, and life (yellow is the color of faith and the prosperity of the Buddha's Teaching).
- Red Khadak: Symbolizes protection and safety, while attracting all auspicious qualities. Red is the color of power and majesty. It is also attributed with healing properties and the ability to ward off the evil eye and sorcery. It symbolizes the hearth.
- Green Khadak: Represents the flourishing earth, benevolent activity, fertility, awakening, and the removal of obstacles. For Buryats, green symbolizes Mother Earth. It is a symbol of growth and prosperity.
