What is behind the custom of prayer flags?
GG: In Ladakh, Tibet and Bhutan the people’s Buddhist faith is virtually inseparable from their daily lives. All activities are performed with mindfulness, and evidence of this deep-rooted belief is seen everywhere. One of the most prominent displays is the brightly colored Buddhist prayer flags that are flown on high-mountain passes, on roof-tops, above rivers and streams, over bridges, monasteries —virtually everywhere. A typical prayer flag’s central image is a horse bearing three flaming jewels on its back. This horse is known as “wind-horse” and provides the flags their Tibetan name, “lung-ta.” The three jewels symbolize the Buddha, the Buddhist teachings (Dharma) and the Buddhist community (Sangha). Together, these make up the equivalent of the Buddhist Trinity. Each flag is covered with mantras and prayers. The Buddhists believe that everything can — and should — be utilized toward the path to enlightenment. This concept even applies to the wind. As it passes over the surf
