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Lungta, often translated as “Wind Horse,” is a significant concept in Bhutanese culture and Tibetan Buddhism. It is a symbol of good fortune, strength, and vitality, deeply embedded in the spiritual and everyday life of Bhutanese people. The Lungta is also associated with prayer flags, which are a common sight across Bhutan, fluttering on mountain passes, rooftops, and sacred sites.

The word “Lungta” combines two Tibetan terms: “Lung” (རླུང་), meaning “wind,” and “Ta” (རྟ་), meaning “horse.” Together, the Lungta symbolizes the speed and energy of the wind carrying prayers and blessings, much like a horse carries its rider. In the spiritual sense, Lungta represents the vital life force or spiritual energy that can bring good fortune, success, and the removal of obstacles.

The Wind Horse is often depicted as a powerful horse carrying a set of three flaming jewels on its back. These jewels represent the Three Jewels of Buddhism: the Buddha (the enlightened one), the Dharma (the teachings), and the Sangha (the community of practitioners). The horse, a symbol of speed and power, is believed to carry the prayers and aspirations of the faithful to the heavens, where they are fulfilled.

Lungta is most commonly associated with prayer flags, which are an essential part of Bhutanese and Tibetan spiritual practice. These flags are printed with various mantras, prayers, and symbols, including the Wind Horse, and are hung in high places where the wind can carry the blessings contained in the flags across the land.

There are five colors of prayer flags—blue, white, red, green, and yellow—representing the five elements (space, air, fire, water, and earth) and the five directions. The Wind Horse in the center of these flags symbolizes the energy and strength needed to carry the prayers and blessings to all beings, spreading positive energy and good fortune.

When Lungta prayer flags are hung, it is believed that the wind carries the printed prayers into the atmosphere, benefiting all living beings. This practice is a powerful way of spreading merit, increasing Lungta, and bringing harmony and balance to the environment.

In Bhutan, the concept of Lungta is deeply ingrained in both spiritual and secular life. It is believed that a person’s Lungta can influence their health, success, and overall well-being. A strong Lungta means that a person is in harmony with their environment, is protected from harm, and can overcome obstacles in their life. Conversely, a weakened Lungta can result in misfortune, illness, or challenges.

To enhance one’s Lungta, Bhutanese people perform various rituals, such as hanging prayer flags, making offerings, or reciting specific mantras. These practices are especially common during auspicious times, such as New Year or important life events, to ensure that positive energy and good fortune flow freely.​

Beyond its spiritual significance, Lungta is also seen as a form of personal charisma or positive energy that can influence others. A person with strong Lungta is thought to exude confidence, attract good luck, and inspire those around them. This concept extends to communities and nations as well, where collective Lungta can contribute to peace, prosperity, and harmony.

The idea of Lungta also reinforces the interconnectedness of all beings and the environment, a central tenet of Bhutanese Buddhism. By cultivating strong Lungta, individuals not only benefit themselves but also contribute to the well-being of others and the balance of the natural world.

​Lungta, or Wind Horse, is a powerful symbol in Bhutanese culture and Buddhism, representing the dynamic force of good fortune, vitality, and the ability to overcome obstacles. Through practices like hanging prayer flags and engaging in rituals to strengthen Lungta, Bhutanese people seek to harness this energy to bring about success, harmony, and positive transformation in their lives and the world around them. Lungta embodies the aspiration for well-being and the belief in the power of prayer and intention to shape reality.

Product 0023 showcases the depiction of lungta carved from ‘Bogh’.

Our Timber Source is a remarkable piece with a rich history. It was originally utilized as a Bogh element in Chagri Monastery and is believed to be around 400 years old. The age and significance of this timber element make it a valuable addition to any collection.