Strings of colorful prayer flags hang among the trees above a forested trail in rural Bhutan. Legends trace the origin of the prayer flag to Buddha.

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Prayer flags traditionally come in sets with five different colors representing the five elements: blue for the sky and space, white for air and wind, red for fire, green for water, and yellow for earth. Each flag typically includes printed text and images. A common misconception is that the flags carry prayers to the gods. Instead, the prayers and mantras printed on the flags will be blown by the wind to spread goodwill and compassion to all living beings. The prayers become a permanent part of the universe as the images fade from exposure to the elements.

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Size: 5618px × 3745px
Location: Bhutan
Photo credit: © John Cumbow / Alamy / Afripics
License: Royalty Free
Model Released: No

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