MAY 2021

The 4th month of the Tibetan calendar begins on May 12. May is a special month for Buddhists around the world. It is the month of Shakyamuni Buddha's birth, enlightenment and paranirvana.

Shakyamuni Buddha

Shakyamuni is the Buddha of our present age. Known as Siddharta Gautama, the historical Buddha was born 2600 years ago in the southern Himalayas; a prince of the Shakya clan. He renounced his kingdom to wander as mendicant monk seeking enlightenment. He attained complete awakening on the morning of the full moon in May, under the "Bodhi Tree" in Bodh Gaya, India. After achieving complete enlightenment, the Buddha traveled and taught for 45 years. He attained paranirvana (nirvana-after-death) at Kushinagar at age 80.

I took a thangka painting class at Naropa Institute in 1976. I drew this depiction of Shakyamuni Buddha for a class assignment. I made a silk screen from the drawing and printed copies for 45 years before the screen finally wore out. During the pandemic lockdown I cleaned up the drawing and made a new silk screen. ~ Timothy Clark Shakyamuni is shown under the Bodhi Tree, calling the Earth to witness his liberation (Earth Touching Mudra). Above him is Vajrapani, in the form of a garuda, symbolizing the power of awakened mind. As part of Radiant Heart Studio's "Deity Print Collection, the drawing is screen printed on 100% cotton cloth The print measures 12"x21 " and sells for $16. It suitable for interior or exterior locations.

Parnashavari for protection from viruses and epidemics

The Dakini Paranashavari Lojunma is one of the 21 aspects of Tara. Her mantra and sadhana practice are especially powerful protection from viruses, epidemics and contagious diseases. Many Lamas, during this Covid-19 pandemic, have been recommending the recitation of her mantra.

This is Paranashavari's mandala in the form of a yantra.. The seed syllable “PAM” in the center, is the sound of her compassion. The yantra can be printed, laminated and kept on your body or in your handbag. It can be hung in windows or gardens as a prayer flag, with the air carrying her blessings.

Repeat her mantra: OM PISHA TSI PARNA SHAWARI SARVA MARI PRASHA MANI HUNG Paranashavari Lojunma sadhana practice composed by Drikung Kyobpa Jigten Sumgon

THIS MONTH'S PRACTICE & NAGA CALENDARS May 26, the day of the Full Moon is Visak, the day of Shakyamuni's birth, enlightenment and paranirvana (death). It is celebrated by Buddhists worldwide. During the 4th month the Nagas pay particular attention to abiding by the laws of their realm. If we make offerings to them on Naga Offering Days, they will support us. Don't make offering to them on other days. Some of those are "dok" days (May 12, 19, 20, 22, 24, 26, 29 and June 11, 12, 15, 16, 17). If offerings are made on "dok" days will turn to poison, so beware! The best days to give offering to the Nagas are: May 16, 31, and June 2, 4, 10.

We apprectiate feedback from our customers; encouragement ,suggestions and constructive criticism. We also appreciate photos of prayer flags on display, especially ones you got from us. Email us at: prayerflags1@gmail.com