How Tsha-Tsha Are Made
Sacred craftsmanship passed down through millennia
The making of Tsha-Tsha is a spiritually-infused process, with each step containing devotion and reverence.
Traditional Making Process
Soil Selection
Clay is collected from sacred highland regions, where the soil itself carries centuries of spiritual energy
Material Preparation
The clay is mixed with water and plant fibers, sometimes with incense ash and paper pulp added to achieve proper malleability
Mold Pressing
Wood-carved or metal molds are used, often passed down through generations. Mantras are recited during the process, infusing prayers into each press
Demolding
The formed Tsha-Tsha is carefully removed from the mold, maintaining its complete shape
Drying
The Tsha-Tsha is naturally air-dried or kiln-fired to harden and set its form
Decoration
Painting, lacquering, or carving is applied as needed, giving the Tsha-Tsha richer visual expression
Sacred Materials
The material choices for Tsha-Tsha reflect dual respect for nature and faith:
Basic Clay
The most common material, sourced from local clay or loam
Agaa Earth
Refined versions use Agaa earth, or specially prepared clay mixed with incense ash and paper pulp
Blessed Version
Clay mixed with ashes from cremated senior monks, creating Tsha-Tsha with special consecration power
Medicine Tsha-Tsha
Made from clay-medicine paste or processed Tibetan medicine, combining religious and healing significance
Blessing Ceremony
Completed Tsha-Tsha must undergo blessing ceremonies by senior lamas. In traditional Buddhist blessing rituals, lamas recite mantras and prayers, channeling spiritual power into the Tsha-Tsha.
This process not only imbues the Tsha-Tsha with religious meaning but also makes them bridges connecting the material and spiritual worlds.
Significance of Tradition
Making Tsha-Tsha requires no advanced skills or expensive materials—just a mold and readily available clay. This simplicity makes Tsha-Tsha making an accessible spiritual practice, allowing everyone to accumulate merit and express devotion through personal crafting.