Incense is aromatic biotic material which releases fragrant smoke when burned. The term refers to the material itself, rather than to the aroma that it produces. Incense is used for a variety of purposes, including the ceremonies of all the main religions, to overcome bad smells, repel insects, purify or improve the atmosphere,aromatherapy, meditation, and for simple pleasure.
Incense is composed of aromatic plant materials, often combined with essential oils. The forms taken by incense differ with the underlying culture, and have changed with advances in technology and increasing diversity in the reasons for burning it.[5] Incense can generally be separated into two main types: "indirect-burning" and "direct-burning". Indirect-burning incense (or "non-combustible incense") is not capable of burning on its own, and requires a separate heat source. Direct-burning incense (or "combustible incense") is lit directly by a flame and then fanned or blown out, leaving a glowing ember that smoulders and releases fragrance. Direct-burning incense is either a paste formed around a bamboo stick, or a paste that is extruded into a stick or cone shape.
Some commonly used raw incense and incense making materials (from top down, left to right)
The Traditional Incense Powder for Protections
Mensang incense is a special blend prepared according to a sacred formula originating in Yolmo on the border of Tibet and Nepal. It contains 35 prized medicinal grade ingredients that have been hand gathered, dried and then blended. The burning of this incense is particularly appropriate for offering to the three jewels, whereby the environment is transformed into the pure realm of Sukhavati. It is also believed to purify negative karma and create a peaceful and harmonious atmosphere.
Dugje incense is a special blend prepared according to the sacred formula of Palchen Dorje. It contains many medicinal grade ingredients that have been hand gathered, dried and then blended in the region of Yolmo, Nepal. The burning of this incense is particularly appropriate for protecting against harmful obstacle makers.
This Bhutanese incense is a traditional medicinal formula to counteract excessive “Loong” – the wind energy which can leave us feeling fatigued and under pressure. According to Tibetan tradition, a healthy body requires the body energies to be balanced and in harmony. Loong incense is believed to help refresh body energies and enhance peace and well being.
‘Riwo Sang Chöd’ commonly known as simply ‘Sang’, is a widely practiced form of fragrant smoke offering made with either a certain kind of incense or juniper smoke. Offerings are made to all the Buddhas, Deities, Dharma Protectors and Dakinis as well as to karmic debtors, ‘demons’ and obstacle makers. It was a terma teaching concealed by Guru Rinpoche and revealed in Sikkim by Terton Lhatsun Namkha Jigme in order to benefit the future generations. This powerful practice enables participants to purify sickness and obstacles, the accrue merit and pay karmic debts. Through its strong blessings many purposes may be achieved.
Lama Tsultrim will also explain the Mother Lineage at Tara Mandala, how to enter it and the relationship between Mother and Father lineages historically and at Tara Mandala.
Ngondro Doma Sang
