SUNGKI (Protection Cord)
Monks and lamas typically prepare Sungki, which serve as protective cords. They select strings slightly longer than a foot, choosing from five key colors representing the elements: blue symbolizes the sky and space, white represents air and wind, red signifies fire, green embodies water, and yellow symbolizes earth.
In the center of the string, a knot is tied, and a mantra is blown into it. Many religious traditions involve this process, where a Rinpoche/Lama infuses an object with spiritual energy and blessings.
Lamas offer these blessed cords on significant occasions, and the blessed string is then placed around the neck of the recipient.
The cord symbolizes the protective embrace of the Lama's compassion, enabling you to carry your teacher with you even after their departure.
Legend suggests that these cords can bring good fortune or provide a form of protection to the wearer.
Sungki also serves as a reminder:
- of the commitment to Refuge Vows and living mindfully.
- of the dedication to Bodhisattva Vows, aiming to spread compassion and wisdom, and to guide beings toward Enlightenment.
- of the reception of additional teachings, emphasizing the ongoing journey of learning and the continuous quest for righteous actions.
However, during religious discussions, some devotees opt to prepare Sungki themselves, believing that merely making knots is sufficient to receive blessings. They then seek the blessing of the lama. However, this approach is not the correct method.
It is crucial that Sungki be entrusted to a monk or lama for knot tying. They will recite suitable mantras and imbue energy into each knot. Subsequently, the Sungki is presented to the head lama for blessings.
Indeed, it is a blessed thread. Once removed, it should be disposed of in a clean location.
