AMITAYUS

Prayer flags are a highly valued component of Tibetan culture. They generate merit for those who put them in place or sponsor them, and they are a means to convey the blessing power of the Buddhas as well. The basic notion is that, by contact with the flags, the wind both activates and carries the essence of the prayer and image printed on them wherever it blows. The intention is that all sentient beings will benefit from the presence of the flags. The sight of prayer flags also has the practical benefit of simply reminding people to be mindful of the Dharma as they go about their business. The traditional five colors represent the five elements, and the various images invoke the power and influence of the beings or symbols depicted.

These prayer flags were printed with a wood block of Amitayus, whose name means "Boundless Life". Amitayus is a deity who is then naturally associated with rites of longevity and the pacification of physical obstacles including diseases and sickness, but also any threat to the life force, in whatever form it may manifest. Rituals, which focus on Amitayus, are typically done when some revered Lama or other important person is encountering a health crisis. Occasionally, even if such a person is not ill, they may for instance just be getting well on in years - the Amitayus practices are performed in order to avoid any possible health obstacles and generally increase life span.

Attaining increased life span and improved health are viewed with typical Buddhist pragmatism as a means for providing time to do more practice, and an opportunity to benefit more sentient beings. In this way one makes the most of the precious human birth.

In this classic depiction, Amitayus is shown seated on a lotus throne.