Mani Wall

A Mani wall is the reflection of Buddhist faith in stone. Mani means jewel and the act of inscribing sacred hymns (mantras) on stones transform them into jewels that radiate the Buddhist faith. The walls aren't always walls and sometime come in mounds as in Khumjung. Whatever the shape, they constist of small stone tablets inscribed with mantras. And more likely than not, it is the "Om Mani Padme Hum" that is inscribed. Some maintain esoteric meanings of this mantra while others believe that it the sound and not the meaning that is important. Nevertheless, the mantra roughly translates to "Jewel in the Lotus Flower be hailed", referring to the Buddha of Compassion, Avalokiteshvara. On more earthly planes, the mani walls serve a purpose as trail dividers and trail markers. As such they aid in the flow of pack animals and reassure travellers of the route. It has also been suggested that mani walls function as landslide markers and it is likely given the Buddhist inclination to propitiate areas affected by landslides and avalanches with prayer flags and other religious motifs. When you see one of these mani walls make sure to keep to its left. On your way back as you again keep to the left, you would have circumambulated the wall. And in that action you receive the merits from the mantras that are inscribed in the stones.