'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.
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