Tsa-Tsas
The small cone shaped clay castings often found in sacred openings are called tsa-tsas. These earthen offerings date back thousands of years with its origin in the Himalayan regions of Tibet, Bhutan and India.
The process of making them has been handed down through generations along with the mantras that are supposed to be chanted while molding them. Often, tiny prayer scrolls or mantras are inserted into the hollow space of the tsa-tsas.
Although just miniature forms of stupas, the tsa-tsas evoke the same powers as their larger counterparts provided the maker and the one asking for them to be made are true believers in their powers. What is fascinating is that during the molding process and during the time of placing them, the sutra of longevity has to be recited aloud over a thousand times. The louder the recitation, the more effective is the power of the tsa-tsa, so it is believed.
The making process requires clay to be collected from various sites across the country. It is then pounded with a wooden mallet. Then, herbs and even spices are mixed before kneading the mixture until it is ready for the mould. Inside these moulds, oil is spread to prevent the clay from sticking to it. Once the clay is pressed into the cast, a tubular hole is made at the bottom to contain the mantras. After the tiny paper scroll is fitted in, the hole is sealed with a plug of clay. Once complete, the tsa-tsa is dried in the sun until it hardens after which it is delivered to the sponsor in an elaborate consecration ceremony.
One mustn’t attempt to touch or move them because a lot of thought has gone into placing them exactly where one finds them. If you are interested in offering tsa-tsas for your and your family’s wellbeing, you can let us know and we will arrange a meeting for you with a qualified tsa-tsa master.