Global Peace Prayers

Coinciding with the 4th King’s 70th birthday celebrations, the King of Bhutan initiated global peace prayers in Thimphu from 4–19 November. The purpose is to unite people around the world in a shared aspiration for peace, harmony, and compassion. He called on the nation to “gather the world in prayer… at a time when humanity faces mounting conflict.”
Last Saturday I had the honour of joining my friend from Punakha and his group of officials to attend the global peace prayers at Buddha Point. When we arrived, we saw an incredibly long queue stretching down the road — so many people come from all districts just to receive this blessing. Luckily, since we were special guests, we could drive directly up to the temple and park in the reserved area. We sat in a covered tent, were offered tea and zao (puffed rice), and then it was our turn to approach the ritual site.
We went to what I believe is called the mandala ritual tower, surrounded by statues. I noticed people were offering money to each statue — 1, 10, or 20 Ngultrum at a time. I only had large notes and a few hundreds, so at first I was unsure what to do. Then I saw people exchanging big notes for smaller ones by taking the offerings others had left, so I did the same. Like that, I could make my round and offer something to nearly every statue. I was really struck by how devoted people were, and how meaningful the ritual is for them.