Tibet
Mid-19th century
The sound produced by this large, double-headed frame drum varies according to the type of ritual. It can be peaceful or wrathful depending on the character of the deity invoked. A musician holds the long handle in their left hand and strikes the middle of the drum with a curved stick using their right hand. The instrument is used frequently in rituals for wrathful deities, religious dances, and processions. The drum takes on metaphorical meaning within Buddhism, in which sharing the Buddha’s teachings is called “sounding the drum of the dharma.” This type of drum is often associated with the sound of rolling thunder, alluded to by the clouds and dragons painted on its frame.
An implement used in tantric practices, the two halves of this drum symbolize the union of the two aspects of enlightenment. When paired with a bell, it represents the male aspect of enlightenment, and its drumming is the sound of the bliss of realizing the true nature of reality. Large hand drums are used in the Tibetan practice of “cutting the ego.” Their sound represents impermanence.
In Buddhism merit is accumulated through engaging in positive actions that lead to positive results, such as better rebirths. Buddhists gain merit by making offerings, donating to those in need, reciting mantras, and other good deeds.
Prescribed practices that carry symbolic meaning and value within a specific tradition and are intended to attain a desired outcome. Rituals are usually done as part of a ceremony or regular routine.
Today, Tibetans primarily inhabit the Tibetan Plateau, situated between the Himalayan mountain range and the Indian subcontinent to the west, Chinese cultural regions to the east, and Mongolian cultural regions to the northeast. During the 7th to 9th century, Tibetan rulers expanded their empire across Central Asia, and established Buddhism as the state religion.
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