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Upon introduction, defining mantras may appear simple: mantras are single words/phrases or strings of syllables, which are chanted either out loud or within one’s mind. Mantras are used as a meditation device, aimed at deepening a person’s inner thoughts, with the long term goal of developing an enlightened mind. And in a way, as with so many of the profound principles of Buddhism, it is that simple. But, the profound often invites the student to look further, dig deeper, expand and grow. So it is with all of Buddhist thought, and so it is with mantras. This overview will attempt to look at some of the basics, and provide you with some resources for more study, should your interest and curiosity be stimulated, which I hope they will be! The origin of mantras as a meditative tool, most likely began with the Vedic tradition. (www.hinduwebsite.com). With the ancients, mantras were believed to be useful in influencing the gods, and perhaps, even control the actions of deities. In Buddhism, mantras assumed a very different role under the advent of the Mahayana tradition (www.fpmt.org). Here, instead of attempting to influence the gods, mantras were used as a way to gain insight into the enlightened characteristics of the Buddha. Enlightenment itself is, quite literally, being in the state of a Buddha, where one’s innate, good qualities and inherent wisdom have been realized to their fullest extent. So, mantras are a potent expression of the essence of the path to enlightenment, or “full awakening”. When recited, they are meant to assist, with great power, the ability to concentrate and thereby purify the mind. The word “Mantra” can be translated as: “man” = “to think”, or “mind” “tra” = “tool” So, mantra literally means: “instrument of thought”. It is taught that mantras are actually quite different from other ordinary sounds, as they are meant to create calm and peacefulness in the mind while being recited. There are many different mantras, used for many different purposes (www.wildmind.org/mantras/figures). Malas are used during meditation practice to keep count of the recitations of a particular mantra. Please refer to my website page About Malas for more information. If you are unfamiliar with how to chant during meditation, please read the outline below. Should you wish more formal and detailed instruction, as well as contact information for Buddhist centers in your area, you might try this link as a beginning place: www.buddhanet.net.
The Om Mani Padme Hum Mantra (saying this mantra is akin to praying with great compassion for the welfare of all sentient beings) To begin, find a comfortable position for yourself, preferably upright. Many people sit on a cushion or pillow, legs crossed in front, hands resting on thighs. But, you can sit in a chair, if you prefer, feet resting on the floor. Take a few minutes to relax, and follow your breathing, concentrating on the intake and exhalation of each breath. Observe as your breathing begins to slow naturally, as your body and mind experience rest. If saying the mantra out loud, allow the sound to resonate in your chest cavity. If you allow your breath to travel deep into your belly, this will help with the rhythm of the chant. Direct your attention to the sound of the mantra, how it feels to recite the syllables, how your breathing and the chant begin to flow together, naturally. If other thoughts arise, let them fall away, or envision the thoughts as wispy clouds upon the far horizon, fading away even as you notice them, and return your attention to the mantra. It is all right if you need to do this particular step with your thoughts several times during the chant. Be patient and gentle with yourself. With continued practice your concentration will improve. As you approach the completion of one cycle of recitations on your mala, begin to let the volume of your voice soften. Gradually, let your voice fade away completely, and finish the last few recitations in your mind. Finally, let even the internal sound dissolve, leaving peace and silence. Sit in this blissful state for a time of your choosing, enjoying the calm of both body and mind. |
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May all sentient beings be reborn in fortunate circumstances, where they may experience the perfect practice of dharma, where all their actions are virtuous, and that they quickly attain enlightenment for the benefit of others. |
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