This unique style of incense burning makes new in the West ancient Asian methods of burning incense. From esoteric Buddhism we are given this style of burning, which dates back thousands of years. We can use this method of burning incense in what the Japanese call, "Soradaki" or "empty burning", which means burning fragrances for pleasure, to entertain self or friends, etc. Another method, and the birthplace of this style, is the Buddhist "Sonae Koh" burning, or "offering incenses" - which is burning incense in spiritual practice. This incense trail method of burning incense was used in the ancient "Incense Seals" and used as the principle means of measuring time in ancient Asia. Here we present the steps to prepare and begin burning incense in this ancient style. a) An incense bowl is filled with white rice ash, which is compacted by tapping lightly on the bottom of the bowl. b) An indentation is made in the ash with a "U" shaped koh press. If a koh press is not available you can use any small object that will leave a straight line or "U" shaped impression in the ash. Press into ash to make an indentation roughly about 1/2 inch deep x 1/2 inch wide. c) Makko powder is used to fill the entire indentation and again the koh press or its substitute is used to lightly compact the makko. d) Light one end of a small piece of an incense stick, about 3/4" long, and stick into one end of the line of compacted makko and let burn. e) Once the makko is burning you can sprinkle your incense mixture or ingredient directly on top of the burning makko. f) As the makko trail burns, place additional incense on the portion of makko that is burning. © 2001 - 2004 Scents of Earth. All rights reserved. |
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Incense Trails date back to the ancient Chinese, who used this method of incense burning to measure time. Many Buddhist temples worldwide still use this style of incense burning for their "Sonae koh" incense ceremonies. Incense trail burning is very easy to do and provides a simple economical method for enjoying the burning of natural incense ingredients. An imprint is made in a bowl of ash using a koh press. The impression is then filled with makko powder. One end of the makko trail is then lit using a small incense stick or match. As the makko trail burns incense mixtures are sprinkled on top and release their aroma. An alternative method of using this style is to combine a loose incense mixture with makko powder
and then fill the ash depression with this combined fragrant mixture.
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Makko is also used instead of charcoal to burn incense ingredients and mixtures as in the Incense Trail style of incense burning. It does not affect the pure natural scents of the other ingredients. Makko Base powder - cultivated mainly in Southeast Asia; from Kyushu to China, Taiwan, and Thailand the trees grow. Prices: 100 grams: $9 500 grams: $40 |
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