Mo (divination)

Traditional Tibetan dice; the use of dice is one of the techniques used for Mo (divination).

Mo (T. mo མོ་) refers to a variety of predictive techniques used in Tibetan Buddhism. Jay Goldberg states:

In Tibet, the use of 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 their lives, [for issues such as] bad dreams, the arising of illness, the undertaking of some work or travel, or even the wish to engage in spiritual disciplines or practices.

Dorjee Tseten states:

Divination is very much a part of life in Tibet and continues to be so among the exiled community. Major decisions concerning everyday life such as marriage or business agreements are made only after consulting some form of divination. In most cases, people have favorite lamas who they consult. In nomadic areas where the sparse population is subject to the whims of nature, divination, signs and omens are seriously examined. They generally interpret these themselves.

The 41st Sakya Trizin states:

There are two primary functions of the Mo. First of all, it is a system that allows us to help ourselves to see a situation or event clearly. Secondly, if we use it for others, with the proper motivation of performing a selfless act of giving – as has been extensively done by many of the great teachers of Tibet – it is system that enhances our practice of the bodhisattva path.

There is also a secondary function of the Mo. The central, most profound teaching of the Buddha is pratityasamutpada, which may be translated as interdependent origination or co-dependent arising. This teaching simultaneously explains the essence of the interplay of causes and conditions on the relative, worldly level of reality and the essence of emptiness, or selflessness, on the ultimate level of reality. Although diligent efforts are needed in concentration and insight to attain a realization of interdependent origination, a system such as Mo reveals a glimpse of the interdependence and causal play of the world in which we live and may help hopefully induce one to investigate it on a deeper level.

A great variety of methods have been used to aid in predictions, including the use of dice, a mala, or a mirror, the interpretation of dreams, etc. Some of these techniques, such as the use of dice, invoke the wisdom of deities such as Manjushri.

External links

• Divination: Form and Function, Himalayan Art Resources
• Mo (divination), Wikipedia