| The following article is from the Spring, 2000 issue of the Snow Lion Newsletter and is for historical reference only. You can see this in context of the original newsletter here. |
Mo: The Tibetan Divination System
Foreword by His Holiness Sakya Trizin
Translated and edited by Jay Goldberg
From the Introduction
In Tibet, the use of the Mo, or predictive technique, has been heavily relied upon throughout the centuries, as it has been the general practice of Tibetans to consult some method of prognostication when questions arise concerning various occurrences in their lives, bad dreams, the arising of an illness, the undertaking of some work or travel, or even the wish to engage in spiritual disciplines or practices.
A great variety of methods have been used to extract omens for the future. The use of dice, as presented in this book, is only one of those methods, one coming down to us from ancient times.
The great Bodhisattva of Wisdom, Manjushri, whose blessings and advice are sought in order to ascertain an answer for one's problems or inquiry. . . . his guidance would eventually lead them to the state of ultimate peace and enlightenment.
Manjushri is recognized as the embodiment of the wisdom of all the Buddhas of the past, present and future
The following is a sample prognistieaticm from the book:
3. NECTAR RAYS OF THE MOON
If AH PA—the good moon—appears, then just as the rays of nectar, the moon, illumine the sky, so the accomplishment of peaceful, increasing and virtuous activities is assured.
The sign of this divination is called "the enjoyment of sense-desire objects where there is no assemblage of obstacles."
Family, property and life If you perform the rituals of cleansing pollutions and of washing, then you will be able to increase the number of your children.
Intentions and aims There are no obstacles in regards to your intentions and aims. It is especially good to perform gentle, peaceful activities; a strong effect will not arise through power or violent activities.
Friends and wealth All white colored objects, food and drink will increase.
Enemies There are no enemies.
Guests Your guests' journeys will be comfortable, and they will arrive soon.
Illness You will quickly recover from cold and digestive diseases.
Evil spirits There are no evil spirits bothering you whatsoever.
Spiritual practice The virtuous mind is good and virtues will increase.
Lost article If you request a woman to investigate in a southern or northern direction, then the object will be found.
Will they come, and will the task be accomplished It will be accomplished.
All remaining matters It is predicted that works involving women and any easy, non-strenuous activities are good. Any activity involving fire is slightly bad. Little things and happiness will increase by relying upon female deities such as White Tara and Ushnisha Vijaya. You should recite any sutra in which predictions for enlightenment are given to women.
Perform the water-giving ritual and water-washing ritual to avoid punishment. It is very good if you perform offerings to nagas. Also, through relying upon any guru yoga practice, good results will arise.
This prediction is known as "dense, good clouds."
Jamgon Mipham (1846–1912), one of the great luminaries of Tibetan Buddhism in modern times, has had a dominant and vitalizing influence on the Nyingma School and beyond. He was an important member of the Rimé, or nonsectarian movement, which did much to strengthen and preserve the entire tradition. A scholar of outstanding brilliance and versatility, his translated works are eagerly anticipated by English-language readers.
