Antique Buddhist clacking staff. Tibet, 19th century. The "clacking staff" used in Tibetan Buddhism is known as a Khakkhara (in Sanskrit) or Khar Sil (in Tibetan). Preventing Harm: The rhythmic clacking historically served to alert small animals, insects, and snakes of the monk's presence, allowing them to flee and preventing the monk from accidentally stepping on them. Announcing Alms: Because Buddhist monks take vows of silence while begging, the clacking sound was used to alert households and villagers that a monk was nearby to receive food or offerings. Length 34 inches.