Scarf Item Number: Ee94 from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

A simple bleached gauze-like unsewn cotton fabric. Near each end, there are some weft fibres absent, creating a fringe effect with closed ends.

History Of Use

The prayer scarf is a physical manifestation of greeting presented on arrival or at leaving to indicate respect. A common item of everyday use as a symbol of greeting when giving to teachers, lamas, and honoured visitors or guests. The prayer scarf also fulfills a ceremonial purpose in the ritual associated with the Tibetan monasteries. When pilgrimages are made to temples, the khata is hung round the neck of the images. The Dalia Lama would be formerly greeted with the gift of the prayer scarf, dozens of them being piled on him by the devout.

Cultural Context

prayer scarf