Introduction: More Than a Symbolic Gesture
In many parts of the world, the concept of a blessing might seem abstract or symbolic—a whispered prayer, a hopeful thought, or a kind gesture from a spiritual leader. However, in Tibetan Buddhism, the act of blessing is considered a powerful and energetically transformative ritual, one deeply embedded in centuries of spiritual discipline, tantric practices, and lineage transmission. It is not merely about superstition or tradition; it is about imbuing an object or being with spiritual potency.
For a brand like Chosenjew, which crafts and curates Tibetan jewelry, malas, bone ornaments, and sacred accessories, understanding this ritual is essential. Every product offered by Chosenjew is not just handcrafted—it is also optionally blessed by Tibetan monks, turning it from a beautiful item into a spiritually empowered tool. But what exactly is a Tibetan blessing? How is it performed? Who does it, and why does it matter?
This article explores the rich history, practical ritual, metaphysical meaning, and modern application of Tibetan blessings—especially in relation to spiritual objects like malas and amulets.
Chapter 1: The Cultural and Spiritual Roots of Blessing
The roots of Tibetan blessings go back over a thousand years, shaped by Indian Vajrayana traditions, Bon shamanic practices, and the unique highland culture of Tibet. In Buddhist terms, a blessing is not simply a goodwill gesture but a means of transmitting enlightened energy or wisdom from the teacher (lama) to the student or from the divine into the physical world.
A blessing is often linked to the concept of “lung” (spiritual wind or energy), which circulates throughout the body, mind, and cosmos. Through ritual, mantra, and visualization, Tibetan monks can guide this energy into specific items, places, or people. Thus, a mala or pendant that has been properly blessed is believed to carry a frequency of protection, compassion, wisdom, or healing.
The practice of blessing is also tied to lineage. In Tibetan Buddhism, teachings and empowerments are passed down through an unbroken chain of realized masters. When a monk performs a blessing, they are often invoking the entire lineage—reaching back to ancient sages, deities, and enlightened beings.
Chapter 2: The Ritual of Blessing – Step by Step
The blessing of a spiritual object involves multiple components, each layered with symbolic meaning:
- Preparation
- The object is cleansed, often using incense smoke (sang) made from juniper, sandalwood, or other sacred herbs.
- Monks set their intention, often entering meditation to connect with the specific deity or energy they wish to invoke (e.g., Chenrezig for compassion).
- Invocation of Deities
- Using mudras (hand gestures) and mantras (sacred sounds), the monk invokes the presence of enlightened beings, such as Tara, Vajrapani, or Padmasambhava.
- In advanced rituals, visualizations are performed, where the monk mentally dissolves the object into emptiness and re-manifests it as a perfected sacred form.
- Mantra Charging
- Specific mantras are chanted repeatedly to embed vibrational energy into the object. Common mantras include:
- “Om Mani Padme Hum” (for compassion)
- “Om Ah Hum” (to bless body, speech, and mind)
- Long dharanis from tantric texts for specific purposes (e.g., wealth, health, purification)
- Specific mantras are chanted repeatedly to embed vibrational energy into the object. Common mantras include:
- Offering Rituals
- Items like flowers, rice, butter lamps, and water bowls may be offered as part of the blessing, symbolizing devotion and the five elements.
- Seal and Dedication
- The ritual concludes with a dedication of merit. The energy from the ritual is sealed into the object and dedicated to the benefit of all sentient beings.
Chapter 3: Who Performs the Blessing? The Role of Tibetan Monks
Not just any monk can perform a proper blessing ritual. While many monks can chant mantras or burn incense, formal object consecration (rab gnas) is typically performed by:
- Lamas or Rinpoches: Senior monks with deep training and empowerment.
- Ngakpas: Tantric practitioners with specific vows.
- Monastic Communities: In larger blessings, groups of monks may chant in harmony for hours or days.
Each monk brings their own spiritual attainment, lineage, and karma to the blessing. At Chosenjew, we work directly with Tibetan monastic communities, ensuring every object is blessed by authentic, practicing monks, often in traditional temples or sacred hermitages.
Chapter 4: The Meaning of a Blessed Object
Once an item is blessed, what changes?
- Spiritual Activation: The object is no longer “just” a bead or bracelet—it becomes a channel for awakened energy.
- Protection: Many Tibetan people carry blessed items to guard against illness, fear, accidents, or spiritual harm.
- Mindfulness Aid: Wearing or using a blessed mala can bring your mind back to practice, intention, and compassion.
- Energetic Cleansing: A blessing is said to purify past karmic traces held within materials or inherited items.
In some cases, even photographs or handwritten mantras can be blessed and used for healing or meditation.
Chapter 5: Common Objects That Receive Blessings
At Chosenjew, we offer blessings for:
- Bone Malas: Often made from yak bone, these are reminders of impermanence and are perfect for wrathful deity practices.
- Skull Beads: Symbolizing fearlessness and the Buddhist understanding of death.
- Turquoise Pendants: Used for heart chakra healing and Tibetan cultural identity.
- Amber and Beeswax Jewelry: Natural resins believed to carry solar and healing properties.
- Tassel Accessories: Small side charms for malas or bags, often adorned with protective symbols.
Each item can be blessed individually or in sets. Customers can request specific energies: protection, clarity, compassion, abundance, or health.
Chapter 6: How Western Practitioners Can Work With Blessed Items
You don’t need to be a Buddhist to benefit from blessed spiritual objects. Many of our customers include:
- Yoga practitioners seeking more intentionality in their routine
- Therapists and healers using malas during sessions
- Meditators who find their practice deepens with a spiritually charged tool
- People facing illness, loss, or transition, who need comfort and strength
If you receive a blessed mala or bracelet, we recommend:
- Placing it near your meditation space or bed
- Holding it while repeating your own mantra or affirmation
- Wearing it mindfully, removing it before entering stressful or disrespectful environments
- Re-blessing it occasionally with incense or sunlight
Chapter 7: The Modern Power of an Ancient Practice
In a fast-paced world, the idea of taking time to bless something may seem outdated. But that’s precisely why it matters.
When a monk blesses a mala in a quiet Himalayan temple, surrounded by incense and prayer flags, he is anchoring that item to a calm, sacred dimension of existence. That energy then travels to you — thousands of miles away — through your Chosenjew piece.
It becomes more than a product. It becomes a daily reminder to pause, breathe, and remember who you are.
Final Thoughts
The blessing ceremony is at the heart of what makes Chosenjew different. We are not just a brand that sells jewelry. We are a bridge between spiritual worlds—between the wisdom of Tibet and the seekers of the West.
Every item in our shop is a vessel of intention. Some have already been blessed. Others can be blessed just for you, based on your request.
Whether you are new to spiritual practice or have walked the path for years, a blessed item is a beautiful, meaningful, and powerful companion.
Call to Action
Browse our collection of monk-blessed Tibetan jewelry today. Add the optional blessing service at checkout, or contact us to request a specific energy or ritual.
Your spiritual journey deserves sacred support.