Material: Copper, Silver-plated, Synthetic Metal

Size: Approximately 16cm

Description: The ritual rice container is an important ritual implement in Tibetan Buddhism, primarily used in food offering rituals, especially for hungry ghosts. This ritual originates from Buddhist scriptures and aims to bless food with mantras, transforming it into nectar to nourish unseen beings and alleviate their hunger and thirst.

Rice containers are typically made of metal, such as copper or gilded metal, and may be engraved with mantras or Buddhist symbols to enhance their power. When used, practitioners place rice grains into the container and recite specific mantras, such as the "Transformation Mantra," imbuing the food with spiritual power so that it can reach all directions and benefit all beings.

The origin of this practice can be traced back to the Buddha's time. It is said that Venerable Ananda encountered hungry ghosts at night and, out of fear, asked the Buddha for a solution. The Buddha then taught the food offering ritual, through mantra recitation and offering, enabling the hungry ghosts to receive food and ultimately achieve liberation.

The rice container used in rituals is not only a tool for offering, but also a symbol of compassion and generosity. Through this practice, practitioners can cultivate compassion, accumulate merit, and resonate with the vows of all Buddhas and Bodhisattvas.