原來西藏的風馬旗是很有學問的:根據傳統，風馬旗是用來促進和平，慈悲，力量和智慧。 這些旗子並不會把祈請帶去給神祇們-這是普遍的錯誤認知，相反的，西藏人相信祈請和心咒會藉由風而將好的心意與慈悲散播在所有的空間。因此，風馬旗被認為是可以利益所有眾生的。
Traditionally, prayer flags are used to promote peace, compassion,
strength, and wisdom. The flags do not carry prayers to gods, a common
misconception; rather, the Tibetans believe the prayers and mantras will
be blown by the wind to spread the good will and compassion into all
pervading space. Therefore, prayer flags are thought to bring benefit to
all.
將風馬旗掛在高處，風馬會將旗子上面所寫的加持帶給所有的眾生，當風吹過旗子的表面時，空氣被咒語清淨並聖化，旗子上面的祈請，隨著上面的圖案逐漸褪色而
變成了宇宙永恆的一部分。當人生繼續下去而被新的人生所取代，西藏人藉由持續在舊的旗子旁邊掛上新的旗子來更新他們對宇宙的祈願。這代表了歡迎人生的改變
並認知到所有的所有的眾生都是更大的輪迴的一部分。因為在旗子上面的符號和心咒都很神聖，所以應該加以尊重，不應該把風馬旗放在地上或是穿在身上。舊的旗
子應該予以焚毀。
By hanging flags in high places the Lung ta will carry the
blessings depicted on the flags to all beings. As wind passes over the
surface of the flags which are sensitive to the slightest movement of
the wind, the air is purified and sanctified by the Mantras.
The
prayers of a flag become a permanent part of the universe as the images
fade from exposure to the elements. Just as life moves on and is
replaced by new life, Tibetans renew their hopes for the world by
continually mounting new flags alongside the old. This act symbolizes a
welcoming of life's changes and an acknowledgment that all beings are
part of a greater ongoing cycle.
Because the symbols and mantras on
prayer flags are sacred, they should be treated with respect. They
should not be placed on ground or used in clothing. Old prayer flags
should be burned.
有些人相信如果在不吉祥的日子掛上風馬旗，就會在旗子隨風飄揚的每一天都帶來負面的結果。掛新的風馬旗最好的日子是在晴朗有風的日子的早上。
Some believe that if the flags are hung on inauspicious astrological
dates, they may bring negative results for as long as they are flying.
The best time to put up new prayer flags are in the mornings on sunny,
windy days.
