prayer wheel
Noun: A prayer wheel is a cylindrical device, often made of metal, wood, or other materials, inscribed with or containing written prayers, mantras, or sacred texts. According to Buddhist tradition, especially in Tibetan Buddhism, rotating the wheel (either by hand or by wind, water, or other means) is considered spiritually equivalent to verbally reciting the inscribed prayers. Each complete revolution is counted as one recitation.
The term "prayer wheel" refers specifically to the physical ritual object. It is used as a countable noun. - Example: The pilgrim spun the large prayer wheel as he walked around the temple. - Example: Many prayer wheels were lined along the path to the monastery.
- To turn/spin a prayer wheel: This is the standard verb collocation for using the object.
- Example: Devotees turn the prayer wheel clockwise to accumulate merit and wisdom.
- Hand-held prayer wheel vs. fixed prayer wheel: Distinctions are sometimes made based on size and method of use.
- Example: She carried a small, hand-held prayer wheel, while the courtyard featured a row of massive, fixed ones.
- Mani wheel: A synonym often used, derived from the mantra "Om Mani Padme Hum" commonly inscribed on such wheels.
- Prayer wheel practice: Refers to the ritual or devotional act of using prayer wheels.
- Mani wheel (specific to Tibetan Buddhism)
- Prayer cylinder (descriptive, less common)
The core meaning is the ritual object itself. The spiritual function—the act of prayer and accumulation of merit through its rotation—is inherent to the definition of the object within its cultural and religious context. It is not used metaphorically in general English.
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a cylinder with prayers written on it; each revolution counts as uttering the prayers; used especially by Buddhists in Tibet
