Home Discussions Dorje Shugden in General Metal plate on the chest of Dorje Shugden's oracle

This topic contains 2 replies, has 2 voices, and was last updated by Vinnie 7 years, 6 months ago.

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  • #9404

    Kyle

    Hi,

    Can someone please explain to me what does the metal plate that Dorje Shugden oracles wear mean? What does that signify and why does the oracle always hit the metal plate on his chest? What does that mean?

    Please explain the significance to it.

    Thank you
    Kyle

  • #9410

    sarah
    Participant

    The metal plate worn by Dorje Shugden oracle is not unique, but something worn by most oracles when they take trance. For example, the Nechung oracle uses this metal plate as well. This metal plate is known as thungs kyi me long aka divination mirror. The tradition of this mirror comes from centuries ago, even as far back as pre-Buddhist era. During that time, mirrors do not exist, and to see ones reflection, metal is used… thus the metal plate functions as a mirror. Also, there are many other ancient religions that use mirror as ritual objects, especially for divination purposes. At the center of the plate, the deity’s seed syllable is inscribe, example HRI.

    As for the function of the mirror, I am not 100% sure, however, it is logical to look at it as
    1) Protection. The mirror which is inscribed with the deity’s seed syllable protects us from the wrong entity from entering the oracle.
    2) Since it is also known as a divination mirror, it helps the deity to divine the future when we ask for advice and help.

    As for the oracle in trance hitting the metal plate, it is usually when the Lama requests for his assistance, if the deity wishes to help, the hitting the metal plate is a way of communicating he promises to assist.

    Hope this helps.

  • #9417

    Vinnie

    Thank you Sarah for the explanation. It does make great sense that the metal plate acts like a mirror for the oracles to see into the future. Like what is said, I do see these plates on oracles for other deities as well when they are in their oracle clothing.

    What I have seen is that the oracle will hit the metal plate with their thumb rings to show that they are pleased. I think that apart from what Sarah has mentioned in the above points for the function of the metal plate, another function will be that the oracle uses the metal plate to carry forth messages. Especially so when the energy of the deity is very wrathful and overpowers the oracle’s body.

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