Buddhism
Symbolism In Buddhism
Om Mani Padme Hum
'Om Mani Padme
Hum' (translation: 'Hail the jewel in the lotus') is a six syllable
invocation (mantra) of Avlokitesvara, one who is invoked as the Protector
from danger. It is claimed that one who recites this mantra will be saved
from all dangers and will be protected. This mantra is widely used in
Mahayana Buddhism. One can find this mantra inscribed on rocks, prayer
wheels, stupa walls, loose stones heaped as Mani (jewels) on roads, paths,
mountain passes, the approaches and exits of villages. One can find this
Mantra inscribed outwardly in the prayer wheels with millions of this mantra
inscribed on paper inside the prayer wheels. The devotee turning one round
of the prayer wheel means he recites this mantra millions of times. As this
mantra is thought to save one from all dangers, it is widely used in
pendants, rings, etc.